Splendor is a strategy card game that is played with 2 to 4 players. The objective of the game is to collect gem cards and use them to purchase development cards, which in turn grant players prestige points. The player with the most prestige points at the end of the game wins. At the beginning of the game, there is a central board that displays a set of development cards. These cards are arranged in three tiers, with each tier representing increasing levels of complexity and points. A pool of gem tokens, representing different types of precious gems, is also placed on the board. Each player is given a set of gem cards and a certain amount of tokens. On a player's turn, they can perform one of four actions: collect gems, purchase a development card, reserve a card, or take a noble tile. Collecting gems involves choosing either three gems of different colors or two gems of the same color, from the pool of gem tokens. These acquired gems can then be used to purchase development cards. To purchase a development card, a player must pay the required number and types of gem cards listed on the card. Once purchased, the development card is placed in front of the player and grants them points based on its level. Reserving a card allows a player to take a card from the display and keep it facedown in front of them. This action also grants the player a gold token, which can be used as a wild card when purchasing cards. However, only one card can be reserved at a time. Taking a noble tile is another action that allows a player to collect a noble card if they have the required combination of cards that matches the criteria listed on the card. Noble cards provide additional points at the end of the game. The game continues with players taking turns until one player reaches the required number of prestige points to trigger the end of the game. At this point, all players complete the current round, and the player with the highest prestige points is declared the winner. The gameplay of Splendor is focused on strategic decision-making, as players must carefully manage their resources, plan their gem acquisitions, prioritize the purchase of development cards, and aim for the most valuable noble cards. It involves a combination of resource management, card drafting, and set collection mechanics, making each game unique and challenging.

Splendor is a strategy board game that combines set collection with card drafting and resource management. The game features a rich and immersive theme set during the Renaissance period, where players are wealthy Renaissance merchants striving to become the most successful gemstone traders. One of the prominent features of Splendor is its easy-to-learn rules, allowing new players to quickly grasp the game mechanics and start enjoying the gameplay. However, the game also offers deep strategic choices, providing experienced players with ample opportunities to outmaneuver their opponents. At the beginning of the game, players are given limited resources in the form of gemstones. These gemstones come in different colors, each representing a different type of valuable gem. Throughout the game, players must collect and manage these gemstones strategically to purchase precious gem cards. These gem cards not only provide victory points but also increase resource production, allowing players to acquire more valuable gem cards in the future. To purchase gem cards, players spend their collected gemstones, carefully planning their actions to maximize their resources and gain an advantage over their rivals. The gem cards are divided into three tiers, each one progressively more expensive but also more valuable. Players must carefully decide which gem cards to acquire to optimize their strategy and build their gemstone empire. Another interesting aspect of Splendor is the concept of nobles. Nobles are influential figures from the Renaissance period who can be persuaded to support a player's cause and provide them with additional victory points. Players must strategically collect gem cards that match the requirements of the nobles to gain their favor. These nobles play a crucial role in achieving victory and add an extra layer of complexity to the game. With its elegant gameplay, accessible rules, strategic depth, and immersive theme, Splendor offers a captivating gaming experience for both casual players and board game enthusiasts. It challenges players to manage their resources, make wise decisions, and strategically build their gemstone trading empire to become the most successful merchant of the Renaissance era.