Kraut & Rüben

A game by Gerd Fenchel

3 - 5 Players 30 minutes Simple

Tile Placement

Farming

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Description

Kraut & Rüben, which roughly translates to a charming mess, is a delightful board game where players aim to create a thriving market garden that matches their secret scoring card. Designed by Gerd Fenchel and first published in 1998, this game is easy to learn and can be explained quickly, making it perfect for a fun, casual gathering with friends and family. In a game that supports 3 to 5 players, each session lasts about 30 minutes, which is just the right amount of time to enjoy some friendly competition without feeling overwhelmed. The gameplay revolves around tile placement, where players draw and strategically place vegetables, weeds, snails, and moles in different plots. The twist is that once you claim a garden as your own, other players can still add tiles to it until only one space remains, adding a layer of unpredictability and excitement. Your goal is to balance your garden to maximize your score, as shown on your secret scoring card, where certain combinations of plants yield higher points. This simple yet engaging mechanic makes Kraut & Rüben an excellent introduction to board games for kids and non-gamers, while still offering entertainment value for more seasoned players looking for a light, enjoyable experience.