Forge (2023)

About this game

Forge is a worker-placement strategy game in which players take on the role of Master Blacksmiths operating and developing great Forges in medieval Europe. Players begin the game with a basic blacksmith’s shop, full of all of the tools they need to forge the most basic of items. Players send forth their Assistants, and their Master Blacksmith, to complete tasks in and out of the city to acquire the resources needed to develop their forge and fulfill contracts. Players will work towards completing different achievements, while also acquiring victory points, as the game progresses. Players are trying to earn the most Victory Points through a series of different methods. The game ends when one player has accomplished 5 different achievements. The current round will be completed, and then final scoring will take place. —description from the designer

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 1 to 4. It has a designed solo mode.
• Rules load. At 2.4/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 14 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.