Nucleum

Board&Dice, Board Bound, CMON Global Limited · Board game · 2023
1–4 · best 3 Solo 60–150 min Weight 4.2/5
8.9 rating Ludopedia
8.1 rating BGG
8.9 rating Ludopedia
8.1 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy a heavy, strategic eurogame with an alternate history theme that makes you think, Nucleum is a perfect fit!

Highlights
  • Deep eurogame mechanics
  • Innovative and engaging theme
  • Interesting asymmetric powers
  • Challenging route building
  • Impactful decisions every turn
Keep in mind
  • Steep learning curve
  • Considerable play time
  • Requires strategic planning
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Get ready for a journey back to 19th-century Saxony, but with a sci-fi twist that will blow your mind! In Nucleum, Elsa von Frühlingsfeld's revolutionary invention, the 'Nucleum' (a nuclear reactor that uses uranium to generate power), has transformed the region into a hub of science and engineering. Now, a generation later, the demand for energy is insatiable, and you, as an ambitious industrialist, need to stay ahead. Your goal is to expand your influence by building railway networks and power lines to bring atomic energy to the great Saxon cities. The game is a heavy euro where every decision matters. You'll earn victory points by developing your networks, erecting and powering urban buildings, fulfilling lucrative contracts, and achieving end-game milestones. To add an extra layer of excitement, each player starts with unique asymmetric technologies, unlocking special powers as you progress. The gameplay is fluid and continuous, with no interruptions for rounds or phases, ensuring the action never stops. It's a race against time and your rivals to become the undisputed leader of this new industrial era!
Rules videos

In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — Nucleum English · PDF
Download PDF
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Game details

Families

Components: Map (Regional scale) Digital Implementations: Tabletopia Digital Implementations: Yucata History: Industrial Revolution Misc: GettingGames Tutorial Videos Misc: LongPack Games Region: Saxony (Germany) Theme: Alternate History Theme: Electricity Generation
Publisher Board&Dice, Board Bound, CMON Global Limited, Cranio Creations, Delta Vision Publishing, Giant Roc, Intrafin Games, Maldito Games, Mosaico Jogos, MTS Games, Old Dawg, Rebel Sp. z o.o., テンデイズゲームズ (TendaysGames), 狗吠火車
Designer Dávid Turczi, Simone Luciani
Artist Andreas Resch, Piotr Sokołowski, Zbigniew Umgelter
Frequently Asked Questions
How complex is Nucleum?
Nucleum is considered a 'heavy' game (BGG weight 4.19/5), meaning it has more complex rules and requires a good amount of time to master its strategies. It's not for absolute beginners in board games, but it's rewarding for those seeking a challenge.
How many players can play Nucleum and what is the game length?
The game can be played by 1 to 4 players. Game time varies significantly, from 60 minutes for quicker games to up to 150 minutes for full 4-player matches, especially during initial plays.
Does Nucleum have a solo mode?
Yes! Nucleum offers a solo/solitaire mode, allowing you to enjoy the strategic experience even without other players. It's a great way to practice and explore the mechanics.
What makes Nucleum different from other euros?
The combination of an alternate history theme with nuclear reactors in 19th-century Saxony, along with action retrieval mechanics, contracts, and asymmetric powers, gives Nucleum a unique identity and a distinct strategic challenge.
Do I need to know the history of Saxony or nuclear physics to play?
Not at all! The theme is historical science fiction, so no prior knowledge is required. The rules are self-explanatory, and the focus is on strategy and resource management.
Are the components of good quality?
Yes, the production is generally praised. Expect robust and well-illustrated components, typical of a high-level eurogame. The art and visual design contribute greatly to immersion in the theme.
Who is Nucleum most recommended for?
It is highly recommended for fans of eurogames who enjoy long-term planning, action optimization, network building, and a good dose of indirect interaction. If you like games like Barrage or Brass, it could be an excellent addition to your collection.