“Sankoré: The Pride of Mansa Moussa” is a complex game that will take several games to fully appreciate its qualities.
The game does not offer a large number of main actions, but the real difficulty lies in understanding the interconnection between the different actions and disciplines (theology, law, mathematics, astronomy).
Strategic rotation is essential, requiring rigorous planning to optimize your actions. This anticipation is all the more crucial since intermediate counts take place regularly to earn books and prestige. Being in the majority in the different disciplines then becomes essential, hence the importance of programming your actions at the right time.
Managing students and courses on your personal board is also interesting. Here again, you will have to organize your students judiciously to trigger lectures at the right time.
During the first games, the whole thing may seem vague and complex, but this strategic depth is revealed and appreciated over the sessions.
There is palpable tension around the table, especially for the prestige race. However, it is difficult to accurately assess one’s position compared to one’s opponents in terms of points before the final count.
On the hardware side, there is nothing to complain about: the quality is there with neat components and clear and intuitive illustrations signed by the talented Ian O’Toole.
The main flaws lie in the setup, which is long, games that can last and a complexity that is not for everyone.
In summary, “Sankoré: The Pride of Mansa Moussa” is a demanding game that rewards players willing to invest time and thought. With its strategic depth, high replayability and rewarding intellectual challenge, it will appeal to fans of complex management games.