8.7
rating
Ludopedia
7.6
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
If you enjoy a eurogame with a unique theme and love optimizing your actions, Trismegistus is a perfect fit! Get ready for a deep and rewarding alchemical journey.
Highlights
- Well-integrated dice mechanics
- Captivating strategic depth
- Immersive alchemy theme
- Challenging solo mode
- High replayability
Keep in mind
- Initial learning curve
- Game length can be long
- Demands constant planning
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
In the 19th century, alchemy was perceived as a mystical science, blending modern discoveries with ancient wisdom. Even after alchemy's golden age, the dream of bending nature's laws and creating the Philosopher's Stone continues to inspire. In 'Trismegistus', you join a new generation of researchers following in the footsteps of the legendary Hermes Trismegistus, seeking forbidden knowledge and power. Your imagination and resolve are unparalleled, and your goal is to uncover ancient mysteries to become the greatest alchemist of all time. Players take on the role of 19th-century scholars who have discovered Trismegistus' notes and attempt to replicate his formula for the Philosopher's Stone. Over three rounds, representing their doctoral studies, they conduct various experiments, acquiring and transmuting metals with the aid of mysterious artifacts. At the game's conclusion, points are awarded based on their published research, their mastery of primal elements, and their progress toward creating the Philosopher's Stone itself. This new edition promises more accessible and less complex game mechanics, making the alchemical journey even more inviting.
GALLERY
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In English
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Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Board&Dice, CMON Global Limited, DiceTree Games, Giant Roc, Maldito Games
Designer
Daniele Tascini, Federico Pierlorenzi
Artist
Anna "Mikado" Przybylska, Katarzyna Bekus, Vesna "vesner" Redesiuk, Wiktor Kozyra
How complex is Trismegistus for a beginner player?
Well, Trismegistus is a mid-heavy eurogame (3.95/5 on BGG), so it's not exactly for absolute beginners. But the good news is that this new edition promises more accessible mechanics. If you already have some experience with more strategic games, it's definitely worth taking on the challenge!
How many players can participate and what is the average game time?
Trismegistus can be played by 1 to 4 people. Game time varies quite a bit, but expect something between 90 to 150 minutes. It's a game to dedicate a good afternoon or evening to!
Does the game have a solo mode? How does it work?
Yes, it has a highly-rated solo mode! You play against the game's own system, trying to optimize your score and complete objectives as if you were competing against other alchemists. It's a great way to practice and delve deeper into strategies.
What are the main components of the game?
Expect many custom dice with icons, individual and central boards, artifact and experiment cards, metal tokens, and other components that help create immersion in the alchemy theme.
Is the alchemy theme well integrated with the mechanics?
Absolutely! The alchemy theme, with the quest for the Philosopher's Stone and the transmutation of metals, is very well tied in with the dice rolling and drafting, set collection, and action points mechanics. You truly feel like a 19th-century researcher.
Is Trismegistus too luck-dependent due to dice rolling?
While dice rolling is a central mechanic, the game is not overly luck-dependent. There are many ways to mitigate bad dice rolls through actions and powers, in addition to the dice drafting mechanic that allows for strategic choices even with unexpected rolls. It's more about how you use what you get.