How to Play Small World

Introduction

Small World is a competitive board game for 2-5 players, aged 8 and up. The goal of the game is to conquer and control territories on a map, while also earning points by completing special objectives. Players take on the roles of different fantasy races, each with unique abilities and powers.

How to Play Small World Step by Step

Game Components:

• Game board
• 5 Race decks (containing 15 race tiles each)
• 20 Special power tokens
• 30 Coins
• 5 Victory point tokens (10 points each)
• 5 Score markers
• Rulebook

Setting Up the Game

1. Place the game board in the center of the playing area.
2. Shuffle the Race decks and deal 4 tiles to each player. Players may keep or discard them and draw new ones.
3. Place the Special power tokens face down next to the game board.
4. Give each player 3 coins and a score marker.
5. Place the Victory point tokens on the board in the designated spaces.

Step-by-Step Gameplay:

1. Race Selection: Each player chooses a Race tile and places it face up in front of them. This determines their race’s abilities and powers for the game.
2. Special Power Selection: Players take turns choosing Special power tokens from the face-down pile. These tokens grant additional abilities or bonuses during the game.
3. Deployment: Players take turns placing their race’s units (represented by wooden cubes) on the map. Units can be placed on any unoccupied territory, and each race has its own unique deployment rules.
4. Conquest: Players can conquer adjacent territories by moving their units into them and defeating the defending units (if any). Battles are resolved by comparing the attack and defense values of the units involved.
5. Income: At the end of each player’s turn, they collect coins equal to the number of territories they control. Coins can be used to purchase additional units or bribe other players.
6. Victory Points: Players earn Victory points by completing special objectives, such as conquering certain territories, defeating certain races, or collecting coins.
7. End of the Game: The game ends when one player reaches 15 Victory points or when all territories on the board have been conquered. The player with the most Victory points wins.

Strategic Tips for Beginners and Kids:

• Choose your Race wisely: Each race has unique abilities and powers that can greatly impact your strategy. Consider your playstyle and the playstyles of your opponents when selecting a race.
• Draft Special powers carefully: Special powers can provide powerful advantages throughout the game. Choose powers that complement your race’s abilities and your overall strategy.
• Plan your deployment: When placing your units, consider the territories you want to conquer and the threats posed by your opponents. Try to position your units strategically to maximize your chances of success.
• Coordinate with other players: Forming alliances with other players can help you achieve your goals more easily. Trade resources, coordinate attacks, and negotiate peace treaties to gain an advantage.
• Be flexible: The situation on the board can change rapidly in Small World. Be prepared to adapt your strategy as needed and seize opportunities as they arise.

Small World is a fun and engaging game that combines strategy, negotiation, and a touch of luck. Its simple rules make it easy to learn for beginners and kids, while its varied races and special powers offer plenty of replay value. Whether you’re a seasoned board game enthusiast or a newcomer to the hobby, Small World is sure to provide hours of entertainment.