Akropolis

Gigamic, BGA Plus, Brain Games · Board game · 2022
1–4 · best 3 Solo 20–30 min Weight 1.8/5
8.1 rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
8.1 rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy an elegant and quick spatial puzzle, Akropolis is a treat! It's a game that makes you think with every tile, but without bogging down the table.

Highlights
  • Addictive abstract strategy
  • Easy to learn rules
  • Impactful decisions every turn
  • High quality production
  • Great replayability
Keep in mind
  • Can feel a bit abstract
  • Indirect player interaction
  • Requires spatial thinking
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our interactive rules guide and exclusive illustrated infographic.
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About the game
In Akropolis, we are the most talented architects of Ancient Greece, competing to build the most glorious and prosperous city. The idea is simple, but the strategic depth is astonishing! The game unfolds with players selecting tiles from a 'construction site' that functions like an inverted Dutch auction: the tiles at the front of the queue are 'free,' but the most desired (and usually most powerful) ones cost stone, the game's essential resource. After choosing your tile, you add it to your city, which grows in area and, crucially, in height! Yes, the layering mechanic is the heart of Akropolis. Building on existing tiles not only increases the value of districts but also earns you more victory points at the end of the game. The secret is to optimize the placement of your tiles to create patterns that maximize points. There are different types of districts — housing, temples, markets, gardens, and barracks — and each has its own scoring rule. For example, housing scores more if surrounded by other tiles, while temples need open spaces. Furthermore, the plazas, which are the 'stars' of the game, multiply the points of adjacent districts of the same type. The game ends when the construction site can no longer be refilled, and the final score reveals who built the most impressive Acropolis. It's an elegant, fast-paced, and addictive spatial puzzle, perfect for those who enjoy abstract strategy games with a thematic touch.
Rules videos

In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — Akropolis English · PDF
Download PDF
BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 OK
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC
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Game details

Families

Ancient: Greece Crowdfunding: Spieleschmiede Digital Implementations: Board Game Arena Misc: Mensa Select Players: Expansions Adding Cooperative Play
Publisher Gigamic, BGA Plus, Brain Games, CMON Global Limited, Engames, Fox Mind Israel
Designer Jules Messaud
Artist Pauline Detraz
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Akropolis a complex game? Is it good for beginners?
Not at all! It has a very light complexity (BGG weight of 1.8), making it super accessible for beginners. The rules are simple to grasp, but the strategic depth emerges the more you play.
How many players can participate in a game?
Akropolis can be played by 1 to 4 players. Yes, it has a fun solo mode for when you want to build your city without the pressure of friends!
What is the average game duration?
Games are quite fast, usually between 20 and 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick session or for playing multiple times in a row!
What are the 'stars' and why are they important?
Stars are a vital resource! They represent the stone you use to 'buy' the most valuable tiles from the construction site. Without them, you're limited to the 'free' tiles.
Does Akropolis have a lot of player interaction?
Interaction is more indirect. You don't attack others, but you're always watching the tiles they take and the ones you leave behind. It's a race for optimization and for 'snatching' that perfect tile from your opponent.
Are the components of good quality?
Yes, the production is one of its strong suits! The city tiles are sturdy and the illustrations are clear, which contributes to the game's tactile and visual experience.