When we first played 7 Wonders at UK Games Expo in 2023, we weren’t sure what to expect. We’d heard plenty of praise for it, but could it really live up to the hype? After countless games, both in person and on Board Game Arena, I can confidently say this is one of the best card-drafting games out there. It’s quick, strategic, and endlessly replayable. Whether you’re a seasoned board gamer or a newcomer, there’s something here for everyone.
The 7 Wonders Essentials – What You Need to Know
- Players: 3-7 (with a 2-player variant in 7 Wonders Duel)
- Playtime: Around 30 minutes
- Age: 10+
- Designer: Antoine Bauza
- Publisher: Repos Production
- Mechanic: Card drafting, set collection, engine building
So, What’s 7 Wonders About?
What is 7 Wonders? At its core, 7 Wonders is a civilisation-building game where you develop a city over three ages. You’ll construct buildings, bolster military strength, advance science, and manage resources—all while keeping an eye on your neighbours. The catch? You’re all drafting from the same set of cards, so every decision matters. Pick a strong card for yourself, and you might be handing an even better one to an opponent.
It’s a game of calculated choices, and no two games feel the same. Some rounds, you’ll focus on science, racing ahead with green cards. Other times, military might is the way to go, securing victories against your neighbours. And then there’s the option of going full economy, hoarding coins while your opponents scramble for resources.
How to Play – A Quick Guide
- Set Up Your Wonder – Each player gets a Wonder board (e.g., The Pyramids of Giza, The Colossus of Rhodes) with unique benefits.
- Draft Cards – Each age, players receive a hand of cards, pick one, and pass the rest to their neighbour. This continues until all but 1 cards are played.
- Play Your Card – You can:
- Build the structure (paying any costs)
- Discard it for coins
- Use it to construct a stage of your Wonder
- Repeat for Three Ages – With each age, cards get more powerful, and choices become even tougher.
- Final Scoring – Add up points from buildings, military victories, wonders, and scientific achievements. Highest score wins!
Why We Keep Coming Back to 7 Wonders
- Fast-Paced but Deep – It plays in about 30 minutes, but every choice feels impactful. No waiting around—everyone plays simultaneously.
- Perfect at Any Player Count – Unlike many games that drag with more players, 7 Wonders shines with a full table.
- Different Strategies Work – Whether you love military domination, scientific breakthroughs, or economic prosperity, there’s a path to victory.
- Great for Groups – It’s an ideal game night pick, easy to teach but with loads of depth.
Playing Online – A Game Changer
While nothing beats the feel of a physical game, 7 Wonders on Board Game Arena is excellent. It automates scoring (goodbye, maths headaches, yay!) and makes drafting smooth. It’s also fantastic for playing with friends who aren’t nearby. And if you’re competitive, ranked matches are brutal—in the best way.
Is 7 Wonders Worth It?
Absolutely. If you enjoy strategic games that reward careful planning but still have a bit of luck, 7 Wonders is a must-have. Whether you’re battling it out in person or fine-tuning strategies online, it’s a game that stays fresh no matter how many times you play.
So, have you played 7 Wonders? What’s your go-to strategy? Let’s chat in the comments!