The Bottom Line
Harrr! Ahoy! Avast! And many other pirate words! Get ready to put on your bandana and eyepatch and take part in some swashbuckling strategy.
Pros
- Dual theme of pirates and exploring.
- Optional cards add another level of gameplay.
- Great components; gorgeous board design.
Cons
- Definitely best with four players.
Description
- For 2 to 4 players.
- 90 minutes.
- Designed by Philippe des Pallieres and Patrice Pillet. Published by Eurogames.
Guide Review - Aramada
Each player in Armada controls a band of pirates; the goal is to either take over the central unexplored island, or take over cities belonging to your opponents.
On a turn, you spend 10 movement points to move ships and pirates, load and unload pirates and gold, and attack other pirates or natives on the central island. As the central island is revealed, dice determine how many natives and how much gold are found. Dice also are used to resolve attacks. A deck of 51 optional cards adds many new elements to the basic game.
For two players, each controls two bands of pirates; for three players, one color is a "dummy" pirate. Armada involves enough strategy to engross you in the gameplay, but not so much that it drags on.
