Shipwrights of the North Sea

Shipwrights of the North Sea is a captivating game set in the early Viking Age, circa 900 AD. You take on the role of a shipwright, competing to build the most impressive fleet on the North Sea. The game is surprisingly deep, offering a satisfying blend of resource management, worker placement, and hand management.

The core gameplay loop is engaging: each day (round) consists of a morning planning phase, an afternoon working phase, and an evening resting phase. You'll be collecting resources like oak, wool, and iron, acquiring skilled craftsmen, and strategically spending gold to build your fleet. It's a constant balancing act of resource allocation and card management.

One aspect that stands out is the inclusion of unique characters, both helpful and hinderous. You'll have to navigate these interactions, hoping they're on your side. The game also features a "take that" element, where you can sometimes sabotage your opponents, adding a bit of tension and excitement.

The components are impressive, with beautifully illustrated cards and player boards. The wooden components feel sturdy and add a nice tactile element to the game. While the game has a moderate learning curve, once you grasp the rules, the strategic depth and replayability are excellent.

It's important to note that luck plays a role in the game, primarily through the cards you draw. While the game offers plenty of strategic decision-making, sometimes you'll be at the mercy of the card draw. If you're sensitive to randomness, this might be a factor to consider.

Overall, I highly recommend Shipwrights of the North Sea for anyone who enjoys strategy games with a good dose of resource management and player interaction. It's a challenging yet rewarding experience that will keep you engaged and coming back for more.