Somnicum

Don't Panic Games, GaGa Games · Board game · 2017
2–4 · best 4 20–60 min Weight 1.3/5
rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

If you enjoy card games with a unique theme and a touch of abstract strategy, Somnicum might take you on a dream journey! It's a quick adventure for building your card collections.

Highlights
  • Thematic set collection
  • Captivating dreamlike visuals
  • Fast and accessible gameplay
  • Subtle strategic challenge
Keep in mind
  • Nightmares steal points
  • Language dependency on cards
  • Can feel repetitive
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About the game

What you do in a play session

The Sandman has vanished, plunging the dream world into chaos! Without him, people can no longer dream, and the land of dreams is crumbling. That's where you come in: with the help of Dream Pendulums and Magical Sand, your mission is to restore order and create "Real Dreams." In Somnicum, you'll embark on an adventure to piece together fragments of dreams, connecting cards from different themes that feature various "dream particles" (images). The deeper into your dream you place these cards, the more victory points they are worth. But beware of Nightmares! They might look tempting with their many particles, but at the end of the game, they'll cost you precious points. The game unfolds over 3 rounds, with a variable number of turns. Each turn, you'll move one of the two Dream Pendulums around a circle of cards, collecting or spending Magical Sand to build your dream. It requires strategy to prevent your dream from "breaking." Some special cards can grant you access to Discovery cards, which bring magical creatures and artifacts to aid you. At the end of the 3 rounds, the player with the most stars (victory points) on their cards is the winner of this dreamlike journey. Prepare your brain and courage for this not-so-simple task of creating a Real Dream!

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Mechanics

Categories

Families

Theme: Dreams / Nightmares
Publisher Don't Panic Games, GaGa Games
Designer Konstantin Domashev
Artist Faya Khamidullina

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
What is the average playtime for Somnicum?
A game of Somnicum typically lasts between 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the player count and familiarity with the rules.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 2 to 4 players.
Is Somnicum a difficult game to learn?
The complexity is considered low to moderate (BGG weight of 1.33), making it accessible for new players and families, though it requires some strategic attention.
Do I need to know English to play?
Yes, there is a moderate language dependency. It's recommended to have the cards translated or use a reference sheet to fully enjoy the game.
What is the main objective of the game?
The objective is to accumulate the most victory points by collecting dream cards and forming sets, while avoiding Nightmares that subtract points.
What type of player is Somnicum best suited for?
It's ideal for those who enjoy card games with a dream theme, set collection mechanics, and a lighter experience, but with interesting tactical decisions.

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