Hippocrates (Alain Orban)
Overview: "Hippocrates" is a strategic board game designed by Alain Orban, where players step into the role of ancient Greek physicians competing to become the most renowned doctor of their time. Set in the classical era, players manage hospitals, treat patients, and build their reputation by utilizing doctors, resources, and strategic decision-making.
Gameplay Overview: The game is played over four rounds, each with five distinct phases:
- Welcome Phase: Players admit patients to their hospitals, carefully selecting those they can treat to maintain or improve their reputation.
- Payment Phase: Players must pay their doctors for their services; failing to do so can cause doctors to leave.
- Recruitment Phase: Players can hire new doctors or purchase medicine kits, which provide bonuses when utilized.
- Treatment Phase: The core of the game, where players treat patients by matching them with the appropriate doctors and medical resources.
- Scoring Phase: Players tally up their victory points based on treated patients and other achievements, then prepare for the next round.
Key Features:
- Player Count: 1 to 4 players
- Playtime: Approximately 90 minutes
- Age Range: 12 and up
- Mechanisms: Tile placement, resource management, and strategic decision-making
Why Play Hippocrates? "Hippocrates" combines historical immersion with strategic depth, offering an engaging experience for fans of Eurogames and history. The game's resource management and tactical planning will appeal to players who enjoy balancing multiple priorities and maximizing their hospital’s efficiency.
Additional Information: The game includes a solo mode for individual play, allowing players to challenge themselves against an automated opponent. Its relatively quick playtime and strategic gameplay make it a great addition to any collection, offering both replayability and a thematic connection to ancient Greece.