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7 Wonders Duel box image

7 Wonders Duel

7 Wonders Duel is a two-player strategy game where players build a civilization by drafting cards and constructing buildings, wonders, and armies. The game features multiple paths to victory and a unique card-drafting mechanic.

8.10 / 10
BGG Rating
10+
age
2015
published year
2
player count
2
Recommended player count
30 mins
play time

How Complex is 7 Wonders Duel?

2.23 / 5

7 Wonders Duel has a moderate complexity, with multiple paths to victory. It may take a few plays to fully understand the strategy.

How much Luck is involved in the gameplay of 7 Wonders Duel?

2.5 / 5

Luck plays a moderate role in the game, as players may get lucky by the cards revealed by their opponents, but can mitigate this with strategic planning and resource management.

How much Player Interaction does 7 Wonders Duel offer?

3 / 5

The game offers moderate player interaction as players compete for resources, military supremacy, and control of the game's three victory conditions. The game also features direct conflict through military cards.

How much Replayability does 7 Wonders Duel offer?

3.5 / 5

The game offers high replayability due to the multiple paths to victory, randomized card setup, and variable player powers provided by the wonders.

Why you should play 7 Wonders Duel

Strategic gameplay

7 Wonders Duel is a two-player game that requires strategic thinking and planning. Players must carefully choose which cards to play and which to discard for coins in order to build their civilization and gain victory points.

Quick gameplay

Unlike many other strategy games, 7 Wonders Duel can be played in just 30 - 45 minutes, making it a great option for a quick game night or for players who don't have a lot of time to spare.

Replayability

With multiple paths to victory and a variety of different card combinations, 7 Wonders Duel offers plenty of replayability. Each game will be different, keeping players engaged and interested.

Easy to learn

While 7 Wonders Duel does require strategic thinking, it's relatively easy to learn and can be played by players of all skill levels.

Beautiful artwork

The game features beautiful artwork and high-quality components, making it a pleasure to play and display on your game shelf.

Unique mechanics

7 Wonders Duel introduces unique mechanics such as the military track and the scientific progress tokens, which add depth and complexity to the gameplay.

Expansion options

The game also has several expansion options, such as the Pantheon expansion, which adds even more variety and replayability to the game.

Why you should avoid 7 Wonders Duel

Limited player count

7 Wonders Duel is designed for two players only, so if you're looking for a game that can accommodate more players, this may not be the best choice.

Limited interaction

Because each player is building their own civilization, there is limited interaction between players in 7 Wonders Duel. If you're looking for a game with more player interaction or negotiation, this may not be the best choice.

Steep learning curve

While the game is relatively easy to learn, some players may find the mechanics and strategy complex and difficult to master. If you are looking for something less complex, you can try 7 Wonders Architects.

Where to find the Rules of 7 Wonders Duel

Check the rules of 7 Wonders Duel in a PDF file.

You can also find the community-driven rules summary, player aid, etc., in the 7 Wonders Duel files section on the BoardGameGeek website. You need an account on BGG to download files.

Beginner Strategies for 7 Wonders Duel

These strategies are for players who have either not played or played one or two games of 7 Wonders Duel.

Focus on resources

In the early game, try to acquire as many resources as possible. This will allow you to build more structures and gain more points later on.

Don't neglect the military

Military can be an important aspect of the game, as it can abruptly end the game. Make sure to keep an eye on the military track and try to stay ahead of your opponent.

Plan ahead

Think about your long-term strategy and plan your moves accordingly. Don't just focus on the current turn, but think about how your moves will affect the rest of the game.

Keep an eye on the science cards

Scientific buildings can help a lot in the game. A pair of identical scientific symbols can gain you a progress token. Completing a set of 6 different symbols will win the game by scientific supremacy.

Be flexible

Don't be afraid to change your strategy if things aren't going as planned. Sometimes, it's better to switch gears and focus on a different aspect of the game.

Advanced Strategies for 7 Wonders Duel

Keep track of your opponent's resources

As you play more games, you'll start to notice patterns in your opponent's play style. Use this to your advantage by keeping track of what resources they have and what they're likely to build. This will help you block them from getting certain cards or resources.

Use your wonders strategically

Your wonders can be a powerful tool if used correctly. Try to build wonders that complement your overall strategy and give you an advantage over your opponent.

Time your wonder construction

Some wonders let you take one more turn. Such wonder construction should be timed to reveal the hidden card(s). This will remove your opponent's advantage.

Pay attention to the end game

As the game progresses if military or scientific supremacy is not possible, start thinking about how you're going to score more points for a civilian victory.

Buy military or scientific cards if needed

If your opponent is going for the win by military or scientific supremacy, you should block them by buying military or scientific structures to have a chance at civilian victory.

Mechanics

Set Collection
Modular Board
Variable Player Powers
Open Drafting
Once-Per-Game Abilities
Tech Trees / Tech Tracks
Victory Points as a Resource
End Game Bonuses
Sudden Death Ending
Tug of War
Variable Set-up
Market
Income
Layering
Multi-Use Cards
Tags

Categories

Card Game
Civilization
Economic
City Building
Ancient