Master the Art of Tile Laying with Azul

If you are on the look out for a strategy game that is as stunning to look at as it is rewarding to play, look no further than the classic board game Azul.

Azul is inspired by the beautiful Portuguese decorative tiles known as azulejos and is a true modern classic, created by Michael Kiesling in 2017. Since winning the prestigious Spiel des Jahres in 2018, Azul has become a staple for families and serious gamers alike.

The game of drafting, pattern-building, and thinking several moves ahead is a popular one in the board game library at the Chaos Cards Tabletop Gaming Store, as well as in the Chaos Cards offices.

Within the base game of Azul, players take on the role of an artisan charged with decorating the Royal Palace of Evora. It is the perfect game for players who like art and design as well as patterns.

• Drafting: Players take turns picking coloured tiles from a central suppliers.

• Placement: Players must then carefully arrange these tiles on their 5x5 grid.

• Scoring: Points are won for completing specific patterns and sets.

• The Catch: Be careful not to take more than you can use! Tiles that don't fit your pattern are considered to be wasted, and will cost you precious points.

Azul: Summer Pavilion

Azul: Summer Pavilion is set at the turn of the 16th century. Players must finish the task King Manuel I never got to complete: building a grand and ornate summer pavilion. This version introduces new shapes and strategic layers while maintaining the classic challenge set in the original Azul.

Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra

Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra swaps the ceramic tiles to translucent window panes! This version is visually very stunning, featuring translucent pieces and a specialized tower to hold discarded glass. It is one of our favourite versions of the game.

Azul: Queen’s Garden

Azul: Queen’s Garden welcomes us back to Sintra, where players are tasked with designing a magnificent garden for Queen Maria of Aragon. You'll arrange plants, trees, and ornaments using an innovative drafting mechanism that adds a fresh layer of depth to the series.

Azul Duel (Azul Maestro)

Azul Duel is specifically designed for two players, this version tasks you with decorating the palace ceilings. While the core concept of Azul remains the same, Azul Duel adds a tactical dimension where the specific pattern of placement is just as important as the tiles you draft.

For the die-hard fans who can’t bear to leave Azul behind, you’re in luck! There is a fantastic range of travel-ready editions designed to handle any expedition. From boring train journeys to meals out and about, we’ve got you covered:

• Azul Mini: This travel version of the game has all the strategy of the original, but in a portable package. It includes a clever tray and score tracker built into the board so you don't have to worry about bumping the table or losing your place while travelling.

• Azul:Crystal Mosaic & Glazed Pavilion: This expansions offers new player boards and amazing plastic overlays. The overlays are a fan-favourite, as they feature recesses that keep your tiles perfectly in place during a match, meaning you can concentrate more on the game, rather then whether your tiles have stayed in place!

Is Azul easy to learn for beginners? Absolutely! The rules can be understood in under 10 minutes. However, the game does have an easy to learn, hard to master quality, as the tactical depth becomes more apparent the more you play, meaning it is just as popular for diehard tabletop gamers as well as beginners.

Can I play the expansions (Crystal Mosaic or Glazed Pavilion) with any Azul game? No, these expansions are specifically designed to be used with the original Azul (Blue Box). They provide new boards and overlays that fit the specific tile shapes of the base game.

What is the main difference between the original Azul and Stained Glass of Sintra? While the drafting mechanic is similar, Stained Glass of Sintra can feel more dynamic as it uses translucent panes and a Glazier piece that moves across your board, restricting where you can place tiles (unless you spend a turn to reset it.)

Does Azul Mini have the same gameplay as the original? Yes! It is the exact same game, just scaled down for travel. The best part is the recessed boards, which keep the tiles from sliding around if you’re playing on a train or plane.

Which version is best for 2 players? While all Azul games work well with two players, Azul Duel (also known as Azul Maestro) is specifically balanced for a head-to-head experience, adding extra tactical layers to the drafting phase.

How long does a typical game last? Most games of Azul take between 30 to 45 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a week night game or an opener for a longer gaming session.

From the sun-drenched walls of Evora to the intricate designs of the queen’s garden, the Azul series offers a beautiful challenge for everybody. So whether you’re just starting the apprenticeship or looking to master more serious strategies, there’s sure to be the perfect version of Azul for you over at Chaos Cards today.

Are you ready to find your perfect tile-laying match? Let us know which one you might be adding to your collection over on our socials.