# Cartref ## General Info - **Year Published**: 2023 - **BGG Rating**: 6.4 - **BGG Rank**: — - **Players**: 1-3 - **Duration**: 33-53 min - **Weight**: — - **Designers**: Chris Scaffidi - **Artists**: Chris Scaffidi - **Publishers**: Fervent Workshop - **Categories**: Card Game, City Building, Fantasy - **Mechanics**: Action Points, Contracts, End Game Bonuses, Map Addition, Ownership, Solo / Solitaire Game, Tags, Tile Placement ## Verdict If you enjoy city-building with a fantasy twist and clever mechanics, Cartref might be your next find. It's a fantastic solo game that also plays well with others, featuring a scoring system that keeps you engaged until the very end.Thematic city buildingDouble-scoring mechanicsGreat solo experienceStrategic planningModerate language dependencyCan feel a bit abstractRECOMMENDED ## Description In Cartref, you step into the shoes of a goblin land baron with a knack for magical real estate. Join the Hut Barons guild and help build the burgeoning city of Cartref, a place where creatures of all sizes – from weefolk to bigfolk – find their homes. The city unfolds on a square grid, where each building possesses unique magical effects that shift based on its residents. Your goal is to wield your wits and a touch of magic to amass the greatest wealth in this growing metropolis. Each turn, you'll choose two actions from a selection: build a new structure and invoke the magic of adjacent goblin buildings; fulfill a guild Mandate and invoke the magic of human (bigfolk) buildings; compel the gnomes in your gnomish buildings to unleash their magic; or purify the pollution (bad karma) emitted by buildings, allowing you to invoke them again. A key feature is how Mandates (objective cards) score points twice – once upon initial fulfillment and again at the game's end. This mechanic injects tension, creating a thrilling race while providing a solid framework for strategic planning right up to the final turn. It's a delightful blend of city building with a whimsical fantasy twist, ideal for players who enjoy strategic planning and watching their creations flourish. ## FAQ ### How many players can play Cartref? Cartref can be played by 1 to 3 players. ### How long does a game of Cartref take? A game of Cartref typically lasts between 33 and 53 minutes. ### What is the complexity level of Cartref? The game is considered light to medium in complexity, suitable for players seeking a strategic experience without being overly intricate. ### Is Cartref a solo game? Yes, Cartref features a robust solo mode, making it an excellent choice for players who enjoy gaming alone. ### Do I need to know English to play Cartref? There is a moderate language dependency. It's recommended to have a translated reference sheet or translated cards for a smoother gameplay experience. ### What is the main theme of Cartref? The theme is fantasy, where you act as a goblin baron managing magical properties in a growing city. ### What are the main mechanics in Cartref? The mechanics include action points, contracts, end game bonuses, map addition, ownership, solo play, and tile placement.