Viticulture Essential Edition

Viticulture is a beautifully designed worker placement game that has quickly become one of my favorites. The theme of running a vineyard in Tuscany is charming and engaging, and the gameplay is both strategic and relaxing.

I love how the game captures the flow of the seasons, with different actions available in the summer and winter. The worker placement mechanic is simple but effective, and I appreciate the "grande" worker that allows you to take an action even if the space is occupied. The cards add a lot of variability and replayability to the game, with summer and winter visitors offering different bonuses and challenges.

The game is not overly complex, but it still offers plenty of strategic depth. I find myself constantly weighing the pros and cons of different actions, trying to optimize my vineyard for maximum profit. The game is also very satisfying to play, as you gradually build up your vineyard and watch your profits grow.

The components are top-notch, with beautiful artwork and high-quality pieces. I especially love the glass beads used to represent grapes and wine, and the wooden buildings are very nice. The rulebook is well-written and easy to follow, and the game is generally well-balanced. The only minor gripe I have is that the game can be a bit slow at times, especially if players are new to worker placement games.

Overall, Viticulture is a fantastic game that I highly recommend. It's a perfect choice for a relaxing game night with friends or family, and it's sure to please anyone who enjoys strategic worker placement games. It's also a great game for solo players, thanks to the well-designed automa.