Vikings

The setup of Vikings involves arranging the main game board in the center of the table. Players receive their initial starting gold and ship tiles, while island tiles and colorful Viking pawns are sorted and distributed according to the player count and rulebook guidelines. Market spaces are prepared so that tiles can be priced and replenished at the start of every round.

The main objective is to accumulate the highest number of victory points by the end of the game. Players achieve this by acquiring valuable island tiles, placing matching Viking pawns, building effective island chains, and managing their resources efficiently to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

During a turn, the active player chooses and purchases one of the available tiles from the market using their gold. Prices fluctuate based on market movement, and certain tiles may even be acquired for free under specific conditions. Once purchased, players place new island tiles onto their personal player boards, adhering to building and placement rules, and position corresponding Viking pawns.

Scoring happens through various mechanisms: red and green Vikings yield points based on their groupings and majorities, yellow Vikings provide gold bonuses, and closed island chains reward successful completion. Certain blue Vikings and end-game majorities also factor into the final tallies.

The game ends automatically after the designated final round and scoring phase. All remaining board components and player networks are evaluated, final point bonuses are awarded for completed islands and majority holdings, and the player with the most points is declared the winner.