7.0
rating
Ludopedia
7.6
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
If you love a quick build boost without spending too much, this card is for you.
Highlights
- Free building placement
- Fast action
- Strategic flexibility
- Easy to use
Keep in mind
- Requires 5 gold
- Single card
- Limited availability
RECOMMENDED
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The "Rapid Expansion" promo card was handed out at GenCon 2013 and can be added to the Intrigue deck before play begins. It lets a player pay 5 gold, peek at the top five building cards, and play one of them for free, returning the others to the top of the deck. Although it was later included in the Scoundrels of Skullport expansion with new artwork, the original card can still be used to duplicate building presence in the game. In terms of mechanics, the card blends Open Drafting and Worker Placement: you choose one of the five visible buildings and place it immediately, bypassing the traditional worker placement that would normally require a worker. This quick effect can swing a turn, especially when you need a building slot for a long‑term plan. The card also incorporates a Take That element, as it can be used to block an opponent’s attempt to place a building in the same space. In short, it’s a utility card that offers flexibility and speed, but it requires 5 gold to activate. Its strategic use can be decisive in 60‑to‑120‑minute games with 2 to 5 players, keeping the Lords of Waterdeep experience even more dynamic.
GALLERY
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Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Wizards of the Coast
Designer
Peter Lee, Rodney Thompson
How many players can use the card?
The card works with the base game, which supports 2 to 5 players.
How long does a game last with this card?
The game duration remains the same, between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on player experience.
Do I need the base game to use the card?
Yes, the card only works in combination with the Lords of Waterdeep base game.
How do I use the card during play?
Pay 5 gold, peek at the top five building cards, choose one to play for free, and return the others to the top of the deck.
Can the card be used in other expansions?
Yes, it was included in the Scoundrels of Skullport expansion with different artwork, but you can use the original version in any game.
What if I don't have 5 gold?
Without 5 gold you cannot activate the card, so it remains inactive until you acquire the resources.
Can I use more than one card in the same turn?
The card can only be activated once per turn, so you cannot use two cards simultaneously.