Ice Pirates of Harbour Grace

Cambridge Games Factory · Board game · 2005
2–6 40 min Weight 1.8/5
rating Ludopedia
5.5 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
5.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

Pirates hunting treasure in icy waters? "Ice Pirates of Harbour Grace" is an accessible adventure with a board that changes every game. Like the sound of that?

Highlights
  • Modular board exploration
  • Fun pirate theme
  • Fast-paced, unpredictable action
Keep in mind
  • Luck-dependent outcomes
  • Simple combat mechanics
  • Limited strategic depth
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Set sail for adventure in "Ice Pirates of Harbour Grace," a 2005 game where you step into the boots of a pirate on the hunt for legendary treasure. The action unfolds on the frozen waters of Conception Bay, represented by a modular card-based board that changes with each playthrough. Your mission? Locate the mysterious Kelly's Island, said to hide the Pirate Admiral's hoard, and dig it up before your rival scallywags get their grubby hands on it.

The bay is a puzzle of face-down cards, concealing not only the treasure island but also lost islands holding valuable maps and treacherous icebergs that block your path. Fortunately, you can upgrade your ship at the various ports around the bay, gaining advantages like icebreakers or cannons. Rescuing shipwrecked mariners also bolsters your fighting strength, which is crucial for confronting other pirates.

Once a player unearths the treasure, the game shifts into a frantic chase as everyone else attempts to steal it from them. "Ice Pirates of Harbour Grace" blends exploration, dice rolling, and a dash of combat into an accessible pirate adventure, perfect for those who enjoy classic themes and a bit of luck on their side.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–6 players
2 OK
3 OK
4 OK
5 OK
6 OK

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Components: HexHex4 Grids
Publisher Cambridge Games Factory
Designer Carl Chudyk, Erek Slater

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
What is the average playtime?
Games of "Ice Pirates of Harbour Grace" typically last around 40 minutes.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 2 to 6 players.
Is it a complex game to learn?
No, the rules are relatively straightforward, making it accessible for more casual players or beginners.
What is the main objective of the game?
The goal is to be the first to find the treasure maps, reach Kelly's Island, dig up the treasure, and defend it from other pirates.
Is the board always the same?
No, the board is modular and assembled with cards, ensuring a different experience each time you play.
Is there a lot of player interaction?
Yes, there is significant interaction, especially during the treasure hunt phase and when attempting to steal it from opponents.
Is it more of a luck-based or strategy-based game?
It's a mix of both. Dice rolls and card discoveries introduce the luck element, but route planning and ship upgrades add a strategic layer.

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