Tiletum

Tiletum is a delightful game that captures the spirit of Renaissance trade in a clever and engaging way. The core gameplay loop is simple: roll dice, choose your resources or actions, and use those to build your engine and score points. While straightforward, this core is layered with intriguing choices and strategic depth.

I particularly enjoyed the unique dice management system. The tension between choosing to grab lots of resources or performing powerful actions keeps you on your toes. It adds a level of tactical thinking that really elevates the game. I also appreciate how the game seamlessly incorporates different elements like resource management, contract fulfillment, and social interaction.

The artwork is beautiful, transporting you to the bustling cities of Renaissance Europe. The components feel high quality and the game is visually appealing. The rulebook is well-written and easy to follow, though I did find myself needing to refer to it occasionally, especially for the more complex rules surrounding the different characters and actions.

While Tiletum is a relatively straightforward game, it offers a surprising amount of depth and replayability. The various contracts, characters, and actions create a sense of variety and keep things interesting. I've played several times with different strategies and have yet to experience a truly repetitive game.

If you're looking for a game with a solid core of mechanics, a beautiful aesthetic, and intriguing strategic choices, I highly recommend Tiletum. It's a well-crafted game that I find myself returning to time and time again.