Subdivision

Subdivision

2014
Family
3.64 out of 5
13+ people loved this game
Mechanics
Tile Placement
Complexity
Light
Duration
45 minutes
Number of players
1 - 4 players
Minimum age
13+ years

Subdivision review

Subdivision is a fast-paced, easy-to-learn city builder that's reminiscent of Suburbia but with a more streamlined feel. Each player gets their own board and a set of hexagonal zone tiles. You roll a die to determine what type of parcel you can place a tile on, and then everyone simultaneously plays a tile. The real fun comes in the tile activations, where you can create new improvements that give you points and money. It's a very satisfying system.

I have to admit, I was a little disappointed that the game doesn't have a more interactive scoring system. The end game scoring feels a bit like Carcassonne, where you're meticulously counting points for roads, parks, and other features. But that being said, the core gameplay loop of tile placement and activation is still a lot of fun. It's a good choice for players who enjoy abstract strategy games.

One of the biggest drawbacks, though, is that the game can feel a little random at times. While the tile drafting system adds some strategy, the die roll at the beginning of each round dictates what kind of parcel you can play on. That can make for some frustrating moments where you feel like you're at the mercy of the dice.

Overall, Subdivision is a solid game with some interesting mechanics. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a quick, light city builder with a fun tile placement system. Just be prepared for some potentially random moments and a scoring system that might not be everyone's cup of tea.