Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
History buffs who enjoy strategy with a dash of luck will love Venetia. It's like diving into Renaissance Venice, complete with power struggles and intrigue.
Highlights
- Immersive historical epochs
- Well-balanced area majority mechanics
- Superbly executed Venice theme
- Competitive without being cutthroat
Keep in mind
- May feel slow for fans of quick games
- Moderate language dependence (needs translation)
- Dice rolls may frustrate pure strategists
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About the game
What you do in a play session
In Venetia, you take on the role of a noble family in Venice, competing to become the most influential in the Serenissima Republic. The game spans three historical epochs: Rise, Apogee, and Struggle, each representing centuries of glory and challenges. Your mission? Expand Venice's influence across the Mediterranean, trade in distant markets, and vie for the title of Doge, the city's supreme leader. But watch out: rivals like Genoa and the Turks have their eyes on your territory! With area majority and dice-rolling mechanics, Venetia blends strategy and a touch of luck to recreate the rise and fall of one of history's most iconic republics. Get ready for 75-90 minutes of intrigue, alliances, and plenty of ambition!
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
OK
3
REC
4
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Devir, Giochi Uniti, Passport Game Studios, Stratelibri
Designer
Francesco Nepitello, Marco Maggi
Artist
Matteo Alemanno
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
1,275owners
146wishlist
11want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How many players can play Venetia?
2 to 4 players. Works well at all counts, but with 4 it gets more competitive!
What's the average playtime?
Between 75 and 90 minutes, depending on player count and familiarity with the rules.
Does it need translation to play?
Yes, it has moderate language dependence. We recommend a translated reference sheet or marked cards.
Is it a very complex game?
BGG weight 3.16 - medium/high complexity. Best for players with some strategic game experience.
What's the recommended age?
14+ due to strategic decision complexity and game length.
Is it luck-based or pure strategy?
Blends strategy (especially in influence management) with some dice-based luck elements.
Is it good for history buffs?
Absolutely! The representation of Venice's three historical epochs is very well done and immersive.
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