Lost Cities Roll and Write

This completely independent and alternative version of the classic Lost Cities (also known as Explorers) puts us back in the shoes of adventurous archaeologists who undertake dangerous expeditions. Designed by the prolific Reiner Knizia (Tigris and Euphrates, My City, Mille Fiori and a host of other games), it allows games for groups of 2 to 5 players, ages 8 and up, lasting about 30 minutes. To win, you'll need to score more victory points than your opponents by exploring ancient ruins and obtaining valuable artifacts from the past.

The title of the game describes its main mechanics: roll & write (roll the dice and write, in English). Throughout the game, the players will take the 6 dice from the box, roll them and write down the results that interest them the most on their expedition sheets. It's that simple... The rules are not a problem to start playing! But in addition to being lucky with the dice, it will be key to know how to get the most out of the results to win.

On each player's sheet there are 6 columns of different colors that match the 6 faces of three of the dice. It is about the expeditions that we can go to try to accumulate points. On the other hand, we will also throw 3 9-sided dice numbered from 0 to 9. This will indicate the value that we must write down in the chosen expedition. However, we must bear in mind that the numerical value of an expedition always has to go in ascending order. If in a previous turn we have marked a 3 in a column, we can no longer use a result of 2 or less. We will have to think carefully about which expeditions we spend our points on!

On each turn, a different player will roll the dice and be the first to choose two results, which they will keep for themselves. The rest can use the remaining 4 dice, although if there is no result that suits them, they can always forgo using them, marking a dice symbol on the character sheet. But beware, declining too many rolls can trigger penalties!

As we explore we may find valuable vessels or cross dangerous bridges. All this will give us points at the end of the game, along with how far we have come in each expedition. If we have marked three, two or a number in an expedition... We will be penalized with negative points! So you have to anticipate several turns before finishing the game where we invest our resources.

Lost Cities, roll and write is a new version of the classic card game for two players. Those who already know the original title will enjoy a version in which up to 5 players can participate and also a different mechanic, with dice and sheets to write down the results. This title cannot be missing from the shelves of lovers of games like Optimus or Plenus, of those who know the original Lost Cities, or of sporadic players who want to enjoy with family or friends without having to learn too many rules. Its format, in a small box, makes it an economical and pleasant travel companion. Roll the dice and go on a unique expedition to discover valuable artifacts!