The dream of creating a new civilization in ancient Mesopotamia is within reach. Are you ready to lead your population ?
In the age of its maximum splendor, this vast and fertile geographical area was a scene of destiny for some populations, who resolved to settle in the richest and most strategically advantageous territories. Over the course of centuries these populations succeeded in developing all aspects of their civilization wisely. This was the main factor enabling them to found marvelous cities like Ur and to construct gigantic buildings like Ziggurats.
Just like Mesopotamia’s ancient Kings, each player will have to achieve the highest prestige by precisely dosing the development of Agriculture, Trade, Politics, Culture and finally War, so that thanks to these efforts the long desired construction of five Ziggurats is completed.
But, beware…
If the King becomes guilty of Greed in building them, or pursues improperly the conquest of Lands, this could ultimately lead him to defeat. The intrinsic speed of the game, the simplicity of rules, the very alluring artwork, together with the subtlety of the innumerable strategies which can be pursued, render Ur a gaming experience which you will play and play and keep playing again for a very, very long time!
Online Play
http://www.mabiweb.com/ (turn-based)
- strong timing puzzle with meaningful late-game decisions
- quick, approachable teach and solid components
- satisfying diminishing-action ladder
- timing control can be polarizing for some groups
- replayability may feel similar across plays
- Sun and moon gods, AR pairs, and the rise of Tuantu (Income Empire)
- Ancient Peru
- Mythic backstory framing around two-sex pairings and a departing empire
- MV
- Sim Cororey
Mechanics (from transcript analysis)
- action placement behind moved brother — After moving a brother on the main board, a player places an action on their own board behind that brother and resolves that action.
- diminishing options — Each round reduces available actions as pairs retire, increasing the value of careful timing.
- Resource management — Pottery and textiles are purchased with strength, with costs and a weaving/terrace farming track flow.
- round-based scoring — Night scoring of sun/moon dials and temple-based scoring drive endgame points.
- vera/veraculture bonuses — Veraculture tokens placed on the board boost future actions and scoring opportunities.
Video topics + discussion points
Quotes (from this video)
- I really like the look and layout of the board.
- The puzzle is engaging and timing-centric.