Which One is Right for You?
Azul is a visually stunning and engaging tile-laying game that has been a favourite among board gamers since its release. It’s simple to learn, yet packed with strategic depth, making it a fantastic choice for both newcomers and seasoned players. Over time, the Azul series has expanded, with each new game putting a fresh spin on the original concept. If you’re wondering which version suits you best, let’s take a closer look.
The Classic Azul: Elegant Simplicity with Strategic Depth
The original Azul is a masterpiece of design. Players take turns drafting colourful tiles from central factories, aiming to complete patterns on their boards while avoiding wasted tiles that deduct points. The game’s balance between accessibility and strategic play keeps it endlessly replayable.
Why It Stands Out
- Gorgeous Components: Inspired by Portuguese azulejos, the resin tiles are both beautiful and satisfying to handle.
- Easy to Learn, Hard to Master: Newcomers grasp the rules quickly, but experienced players find plenty of room for strategy.
- Tactical Drafting: Strategic blocking adds a competitive edge, as players can deny opponents the tiles they need.
- Increasing Point Value: The game ramps up as tile placement becomes more valuable in later rounds.
Azul is a must-have for any board game collection. It’s a fantastic introduction to tile-laying games while offering enough depth to keep strategic thinkers engaged. Read my longer review of why I love Azul so much
Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra – A Stunning Evolution
This sequel shifts the focus from mosaic tiles to intricate stained glass windows. Instead of placing tiles on a fixed grid, players work with columns that flip over when completed, requiring forward planning.
Why It Shines
- Breathtaking Aesthetic: The translucent, jewel-like tiles create a striking visual effect.
- Cascading Scoring: Completing columns unlocks increasing point rewards, encouraging long-term strategy.
- Movable Player Markers: Unlike the original, players must consider which columns they’ll be able to access on future turns.
- Layered Strategy: Deciding when to flip columns or remove them for maximum efficiency adds an extra layer of decision-making.
Stained Glass of Sintra is a touch more complex than the original, making it a great choice for players who enjoy strategic planning and reduced randomness. Read more about Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra
Azul: Summer Pavilion – More Flexibility, More Strategy
Summer Pavilion retains the core Azul experience but allows players to collect tiles throughout the round instead of placing them immediately. This minor tweak has a huge impact, offering greater flexibility and planning opportunities.
Why It Stands Out
- Less Punishment, More Strategy: Players can store tiles for later rounds, reducing forced placements.
- Wildcard Tiles: Each round features a different wildcard colour, adding an extra layer of strategy.
- Bonus Opportunities: Placing tiles in specific patterns can unlock additional tiles, leading to satisfying chain reactions.
- Higher Scoring Potential: With more control over placements and fewer penalties, this version offers a smoother, more rewarding experience.
While some production elements (like slightly thinner tiles) aren’t perfect, Summer Pavilion is an excellent evolution of Azul, offering depth without overcomplicating the game. Read my review of Azul: Summer Pavilion
Azul: Queen’s Garden – The Most Strategic Azul Yet
Queen’s Garden takes Azul in a new direction, featuring hexagonal tiles, a dynamic drafting system, and a more intricate placement mechanism. This version requires careful planning and is the most complex in the series.
Why Strategy Fans Love It
- Deep Tactical Play: With more placement rules and varied ways to pay for tiles, Queen’s Garden is a true brain-burner.
- Elegant Artwork: The softer, elegant colour palette creates a visually soothing experience.
- Evolving Market: Instead of fixed pools, tiles shift throughout the game, making each round unpredictable.
- Hexagonal Grid: Managing both colour and pattern adjacency adds a new strategic challenge.
If you love puzzle-heavy games and don’t mind spending extra time thinking through your turns, Queen’s Garden is a fantastic choice. Find out more avout Azul: Queens Garden
Which Azul is Right for You?
With so many variations, it’s worth considering which Azul fits your playstyle best:
- For Beginners & Casual Gamers: Start with the original Azul for its simple yet satisfying mechanics.
- For the Most Visually Stunning Experience: Stained Glass of Sintra has the most beautiful components.
- For Long-Term Strategy Lovers: Summer Pavilion offers the most planning flexibility while keeping gameplay smooth.
- For Heavy Strategy Gamers: Queen’s Garden provides the deepest and most complex challenge.
Final Thoughts
Azul and its expansions continue to impress, each bringing fresh mechanics while preserving the charm of the original. Whether you prefer a laid-back experience or a deeply strategic challenge, there’s an Azul game that fits your style. No matter which one you pick, the Azul series proves time and again why it’s one of the best board game franchises around.