Francis Drake

Kayal Games, Eagle-Gryphon Games, HUCH! · Board game · 2013
3–5 · best 5 90–120 min Weight 2.9/5
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Buy
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for those who love nautical themes and logistics games where preparation is key.

Highlights
  • Immersive piracy theme
  • Deep strategic planning
  • Constant racing tension
  • Great component presence
Keep in mind
  • Steeper learning curve
  • Playtime can run long
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
Imagine yourself as an ambitious captain in 1572, stationed at the bustling port of Plymouth. Your goal? Embark on three epic voyages to the 'Spanish Main' in pursuit of fame, fortune, and, of course, the favor of Queen Elizabeth I. But it's not as simple as just boarding a ship and sailing away; the game is essentially a strategic race of preparation. Before each voyage, you'll face critical decisions: How many crew members can you recruit? How many cannons are needed to tackle the Spanish fleets? Which trade goods should you pack to ensure survival and profit?

The core of the experience lies in the planning phase. You'll need to secure supplies to venture deep into the Caribbean and decide whether to invest in a sturdier galleon for heavy assaults or seek the aid of informers and secret charts from the Spanish Governor. Even the legendary Francis Drake himself might appear to guide your journey, and the competition for the use of the famous Golden Hind will be fierce.

Each of the three voyages presents unique challenges and increasing risks. You must balance greed with prudence, as the path to the treasures of the Aztec and Inca Empires is fraught with danger. If you can capture enough gold, silver, and jewels, glory awaits. Prepare to manage your resources, bluff your opponents, and navigate treacherous waters in search of the New World's greatest riches. It's a strategy game where pre-voyage logistics are just as vital as courage on the high seas.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 OK
4 REC
5 BEST
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Game details

Families

Crowdfunding: Kickstarter History: Age of Discovery Players: Games with expansions that change player count Region: Caribbean Sea Theme: Pirates
Publisher Kayal Games, Eagle-Gryphon Games, HUCH!, Ystari Games
Designer Peter Hawes
Artist Franz Vohwinkel
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game too complex?
It's rated as 'Expert', so it has several layers of rules. If you're used to Eurogames, you'll pick it up quickly, but beginners might need more time.
How long does a game take?
Usually between 90 and 120 minutes, depending on the number of players and the group's experience.
How many people can play?
From 3 to 5 players. This is the ideal range to create the necessary competition in the race for treasures.
Is it language dependent?
No, language dependency is minimal, making it accessible regardless of the edition's language.
Who would you recommend this game to?
To those who enjoy resource management, exploration themes, and planning every step before executing an action.