Carcassonne

Customer Reviews

Easy Pick Up & Play for just about anyone. Review by Derek

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The base game can be set up and taught to a group of strategy noobs in about 10 minutes. Thus, compared to to other gateway games like Ticket to Ride and Settlers of Catan, this is definitely an easier pill to swallow.

Since there is a limited number of tile types in the base game, we're looking to expand with at least the Inns & Cathedrals, and Traders & Builders add-ons. This extends play, deepens strategy, and will result in less empty holes in the game board.

A nice thing that tends to happen in our circles, is cooperative play. For instance, we like to see new and interesting patterns completed, so we'll finish each others features in return for future favors.

(Posted on 2/22/12)

All-Star Game! Review by Nicholas

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I've always played board games and card games, but for years the inventory of my game cabinet was comprised of mainly standards ( Monoply, Battleship, D&D, Cribbage, Trivial Pursuit, etc) until I played Carcassonne. I had played Catan and other strategy games in the past, and I felt they were okay, but it wasn't until I played Carcassonne that I developed a love for games that had more depth (I've since gone back to other strategy games and had a better appreciation for them Post-Carcassonne). Carcassonne is a fantastic tile game where players compete to build more cities, roads and dominate more farmland than their rivals. What makes this game stupendous fun and challenging is the simple rule set that allows for constant backstabbing, campaigning and true engagement during gameplay. I am definitely a social gamer, the focus for me is having a good time with my friends, despite the game in front of us; Carcassonne really allows everyone at the table to have a good time, whether the experienced pro or the wet-behind-the-ears newbie. I can't recommend this game enough to anyone, whether you're a games fan or not, because of the level of playability, fun and the excellent value. If you're looking to explore the realm of expansions, Carcassonne is a fantastic gateway as well, as expansion sets are very reasonably priced. A must-have for any gamer or any household period! (Posted on 2/1/12)

A very fun game Review by KR

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Carcassone is a tile laying game that has been very popular since it was released. This is one of the most played games in my collection as everyone seems to really enjoy it and it's a good game to bring out when playing with non gamers. The one negative (and it's minor) with the game is that the point scheme can be a bit tricky for new players and it often takes them a game or two to figure it all out. But once you understand how you gain points (especially with the farms) than everything goes smoothly. (Posted on 12/15/11)

A Great Game That You Can Play Many Ways Review by Kevin

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I purchased Carcassonne based on a number of good 'gateway' game reviews and I can say I am not disappointed. The rules are simple enough for younger players and the tile and meeple placement is straight forward and fun.

My 5yr. enjoys just making a map, playing the game like a puzzle, while my older kids play for points 'at the same time.' We can play Carcassonne both competitively and cooperatively--that the beauty of this game!

We tried an expansion and it does add more to the game but the base game is just as fun as is. It doesn't feel like anything is missing in the base game, again, another plus!

A must have game for your family board game library! (Posted on 11/16/11)

Very Good Review by Mitch

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Very easy to learn, but it will take a few games to master. Not very rules intensive, quick to play and alot of fun. Like all games published by Rio Grande Games, very reasonably priced and a great value. We play this with our adult friends and my ten year old, and have yet to meet anyone who doesn't enjoy this game. (Posted on 11/6/11)

Excellent strategy game that can be expanded. Review by Marg

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My whole family really enjoys this game. We have several of the expansion packs so lots of tiles. When we play, we take up the whole kitchen table with the map. It is lots of fun and everyone can get involved. (Posted on 8/24/11)

One of the best games I've played Review by Jacques

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I simply love Carcassonne. It is fun to see the cities and farms come together and depending on your opponents this can be a relaxing game or a very intense game.

Carcassonne is easy to teach and to play and there are many expansions. I have not yet played any of the expansions, but quite honestly, one of the things I love about Carcassonne is that it is relatively simple. And yet, despite being simple it is very fun with lots of room for strategy and competition. (Posted on 3/22/11)

Easy to learn, teach, set up, and enjoy Review by Chroniclers

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This is an ingenious game.

I won't go over the mechanics since other people have done that quite well, but I will second what many have already said:

This game sets up in about a minute, can be taught to a new player in ten, played in 45 or less, and learned for the first time after one round.

The variety is almost limitless, especially considering the expansions, and it plays very well with two people as well as a group.

As an experienced gamer with a very inexperienced playmate (the lady of the house) the most important thing is that this game is satisfying for all levels of experience. If you are just starting board games, get Carcassonne. If you have been playing games for years and never looked at Carcassonne, spend the $25 and you won't regret it. (Posted on 3/14/11)

Fun and Easy Review by Benjamen

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Fun game to play with friends and after a couple minute run down of the rules (that can be mostly gone over while playing) can be easily taught to new players.
More interesting with more players but honestly can actually be really fun with only two people.
They really don't lie with this game, it is almost impossible to duplicate a game, a definite must for any strategist. (Posted on 1/30/11)

It's outrangeously simple, yet provides a remarkable amount of entertainment! Review by Heero Fong

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I had friends tell me about their experiences with Carcassone for awhile. My first impression of it was that it seemed like a really simple game that has more luck than strategy. Definitely not the type of game I would enjoy was my perception of the game. When I finally got a chance to play it, my impressions were bang on. It was extremely simple as I figured out how to play within 2 minutes (had someone explain it), and the game does rely a lot on luck as you have to draw random tiles.

Despite this, Carcassone was surprisingly very enjoyable. There is a certain amount of strategy that has to be employed such as scheming on how to steal a road, city or field from someone. The stealing aspect of the game can lead to some hilarious constructions such as gigantic cities which realistically cannot be completed.

Overall, this game is really great for parties as it is incredibly easy to teach others how to play and provides an exceptional amount of entertainment despite its simplicity. There are also a plethora of expansions, in comparison to other boardgames, available for this game which adds an extensive amount of variety to the base game. And the price of the game is quite reasonable when you compare its entertainment value to the more extravagant boardgames on the market.
(Posted on 1/2/11)