Settlers of Catan

I have always been a fan of boardgames, card cames...etc. This winter Kristina gave me a game called "Settlers of Catan." I had heard about it a few years ago since it is very popular, especially in Germany, and has won numerous awards. Over the last few weeks we were able to play a number of games and I have been really impressed. The game seems to have a surprisingly broad appeal. We are currently visiting my parents in WA and my parents love it, along with Kristina and my sister.



There are number of things that the designer really got right, that sets Settlers apart from other similar boardgames:

• Everyone is involved during each persons turn since all parties could be affected.
  
• The game is not directly adversarial, though indirectly players must react to the moves of others.
  
• Unlike other games of strategy, playing a game lasts less than an hour once you become familiar with the rules.
  
• The dynamics of the game, specifically the "robber," ensure that it is very difficult to run away with a game even when the comparative skill levels are wide.
  
• The game provides a good blend of strategy and randomness
  
• The strategies can be relatively complex adding to the long term playability of the game.
  
• Because trade is so important a lot of strategy and fun involves interactions with the other players.
  

Considering that last night my mom promised a win and delivered a commanding victory we will be playing Settlers for a long to come.