
Merchants of Amsterdam
A board game by Reiner Knizia
3-5 3-5 4-5
90 minutes Medium
Area Majority / Influence, Tile Placement, Auction: Dutch, Auction/Bidding, Auction: Dexterity
Economic, Renaissance, Real-time
View onBoardGameGeek
Friends and Communities with Merchants of Amsterdam
Description
In Merchants of Amsterdam, 3 to 5 players compete to dominate various markets and territories, all set against the rich backdrop of Amsterdam's history. On each turn, players draw cards that can be used to advance their position, removed from the game, or put up for auction. The twist is the use of a spring-driven auction clock for Dutch auctions, where the price drops as time ticks away, and the first player to slap down on the clock gets the card at the current price. As the game progresses through historical phases, players must adapt to changing conditions, from scoring rounds to bonuses and penalties. With its unique blend of auction mechanics, tile placement, and area majority, Merchants of Amsterdam offers a thrilling experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Designed by Reiner Knizia, this 2000 game is a classic that still holds up today, with a playtime of around 60 minutes and rules of normal complexity.
