Bruxelles 1897

I recently had the chance to play Bruxelles 1897, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. It's a card game that feels streamlined and polished, while still offering a surprising amount of strategic depth. The core mechanics are familiar to anyone who's played the original Bruxelles 1893, but they've been simplified without losing any of their charm. The game's art nouveau theme shines through, with beautiful graphics that really draw you in.

One thing I really appreciated about Bruxelles 1897 is the pace. Games are quick, usually wrapping up in 20-30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a casual game night. But don't let the quick play time fool you – there are a lot of important decisions to make. You have to carefully consider your architect cards, the actions available to you, and the strategies of your opponents. The game's not overly complex, but it does take a few rounds to get a handle on all the moving parts.

While I found the thematic elements a bit confusing at first, I quickly got over it and just focused on the core mechanics. It's more about the systems than the story, but the artwork and card design add a nice touch. I also really liked how well it scaled, playing just as well with two players as it did with four.

If you're looking for a card game that's easy to learn but offers a lot of replayability, I highly recommend Bruxelles 1897. It's a great pick for both serious gamers and those who are just getting into the hobby. It's a fast-paced, strategic experience with a surprisingly satisfying depth.