Game Review--Jerusalem: Anno Domini
What I Liked: The game impresses with its deep thematic integration. Strategy-wise, the game offers compelling choices through area control, set collection, and a clever spatial puzzles. The components elevate the experience with beautiful artwork and thoughtfully designed pieces that bring the biblical setting to life. Plus, its replayability keeps things fresh with multiple viable scoring strategies to try.
What I Didn't Like: The rulebook could be more user-friendly, as the learning curve might slow down newer players. Initial setup can be time-consuming, especially with sticker application, and some mechanics—like “doing favors”—can feel counterintuitive until you see their long-term payoff. Minor hurdles aside, the gameplay payoff makes it worthwhile.
What's Unique: What really sets this game apart is how it treats its religious theme with care and nuance. It’s reverent yet approachable, leaning into historical inspiration rather than preaching. The apostle seating mini-game, where you strive for the best positions around Jesus while avoiding Judas, adds a clever twist. And the favor tokens cleverly bridge competition and cooperation, serving as wild icons that enrich strategic possibilities.
Review by Joel Fernandez.
