Pandasaurus Games, in collaboration with Catch Up Games, has revealed plans to introduce “Courtisans” to the US market. Scheduled for release in May 2024, “Courtisans” represents a new addition to the board gaming community, designed to offer a competitive and engaging gameplay experience.
Designed by Romaric Galonnier and Anthony Perone, with art by Noëmie Chevalier, “Courtisans” accommodates 2-5 players, is suitable for ages 8 and up, and has an estimated playtime of 20-30 minutes. The game is based around a narrative where players navigate a royal banquet, aiming to influence noble families through strategic card play.
The game integrates mechanics such as “Take That,” Set Collection, Tableau Building, and End Game Scoring Bonuses. This mix is intended to challenge players to manage their cards effectively while interpreting the strategies of their opponents.
The structure of “Courtisans” involves six different families, each with 15 Courtier cards. Players draw and play cards in a manner that influences their standing at the Queen’s Table, their own Domain, and within an opponent’s Domain. The arrangement of cards at the Queen’s Table is crucial for determining whether a family is Esteemed or Disgraced by the game’s end, which affects scoring.
The game also introduces special powers through certain Courtier cards and secret scoring objectives for each player, adding layers of strategy and unpredictability.
Pandasaurus Games is currently accepting preorders for “Courtisans” through their website. A notable incentive for early orders includes the delivery of the game two weeks before its general release, providing preorder customers with early access.