CATAN 6th Edition Base Game

Setup Highlights

• Each player places two settlements and roads.
• Roll dice each turn to generate resources (brick, wood, wheat, sheep, ore).
• Use resources to build roads, settlements, cities, or purchase development cards.

Core Gameplay Loop

1. Roll for Resources: At the start of your turn, roll two dice. All players collect resources from adjacent hexes matching the number rolled.
2. Trade & Build: Trade with others (or use ports) to gather what you need. Then build structures or buy development cards to earn points and abilities.
3. Block & Steal: If a 7 is rolled, activate the Robber to block a hex and steal a card from another player - this adds tactical depth and interaction.
4. Race to 10 Points: Gain points by building, collecting development cards, and earning Largest Army or Longest Road.

Ending the Game

First player to reach 10 points on their turn wins!

Strategy Tips

1. Prioritise High-Frequency Tiles: Build near hexes marked with 6s and 8s - they offer the best chance of regular resource income.
2. Diversify Resources: Aim to cover as many different resource types as possible early on. A balanced economy gives you flexibility when trading and building.
3. Use Trading to Your Advantage: Keep track of what others need and make smart trades. Sometimes, even a slightly unfavourable trade can position you better for a long-term gain.
4. Control Ports: Securing access to a port (especially one matching your strongest resource) can break dependency on luck and other players.
5. Watch the Robber: Position your settlements with some spacing - avoid clustering too close to a single high-value tile that can be shut down with the Robber.