Splendor review

Splendor is the fastest pure strategy game on this list, listed by GameNerdz at about 30 minutes for 2 to 4 players aged 10 and up. Players are Renaissance merchants who collect gem tokens, use them to buy development cards that act as permanent gems, and attract noble patrons once their collection matches a noble's requirement. Turns are short because you take only one action, but the cards you buy early decide what you can afford later, which is where the strategy sits. The current box is a 10th anniversary version from Space Cowboys with new art by Paul Vérité. It lists at $39.99 and was $31.99 at GameNerdz when we checked. The theme is light and the game is mostly about efficient purchases, so groups that want conversation or a story will prefer Catan or Codenames.

Who it is for

Players who want a 30-minute strategy game with simple turns

Price

$39.99 list price; $31.99 at GameNerdz when checked.

enhancing both aesthetic appeal and gameplay dynamics. $31.99 $39.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 12, 2026.

Key features

• 2 to 4 players, ages 10 and up, about 30 minutes
• Collect gem tokens to buy development cards that produce more gems
• Noble tiles reward players who build the right mix of cards
• 10th anniversary version with new art by Paul Vérité
• Designed by Marc André, published by Space Cowboys

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: About 30 minutes per game
• Strength: Each turn is one of a few simple actions
• Strength: $31.99 at GameNerdz when checked
• Weakness: Theme is thin; the game is mostly about counting gems
• Weakness: Four players maximum
• Weakness: Little direct interaction beyond taking cards others want

Key facts

• Publisher: Space Cowboys
• Designer: Marc André
• Players: 2 to 4
• Play time: 30 minutes
• Age: 10+
• Price: $39.99 list, $31.99 at GameNerdz

Where it ranks

Splendor is No. 7 in our Best Board Games verdict.