Objective

The objective is to be the first player to reach a set number of prestige points, typically 15.

Components

• 5 Gem token types (Emerald, Sapphire, Ruby, Diamond, Onyx)

• 1 Gold token (used as a wildcard)

• 40 Development cards (split into three levels)

• 10 Noble tiles

• 1 First Player token

• 1 Prestige Track
  

Setup

1. Place the Gem Tokens: Arrange the gem tokens in piles within easy reach of both players.

2. Shuffle Development Cards: Separate the Development cards into three levels (I, II, III), shuffle each level, and place them in separate decks.

3. Deal Development Cards: Reveal four cards from each deck and place them in rows corresponding to their level.

4. Place Noble Tiles: Shuffle and reveal three Noble tiles, placing them face up.

5. Determine First Player: Randomly choose a first player and give them the First Player token.

6. Set Up Prestige Track: Place the Prestige Track in view of both players.
   

Gameplay

Turn Overview

Players take turns performing one of the following actions:

1. Take Gem Tokens:

   • Take three different gem tokens, or

   • Take two gem tokens of the same type (if there are at least four tokens of that type available), or

   • Take one gold token (wildcard).

2. Reserve a Card:

   • Reserve a Development card from the tableau or the top of any deck and take a gold token. You may have up to three reserved cards.

3. Purchase a Development Card:

   • Buy a Development card from the tableau or from your reserved cards by paying the cost in gem tokens and place it in front of you.

   • Development cards may give you gem bonuses, which reduce the cost of future cards.

4. Claim a Noble Tile:

   • At the end of your turn, if you meet the requirements on a Noble tile, claim it to gain additional prestige points.

Development Cards

• Level I Cards: Cost fewer gems, provide lower prestige points and gem bonuses.

• Level II Cards: Cost more gems, provide moderate prestige points and gem bonuses.

• Level III Cards: Cost the most gems, provide the highest prestige points and gem bonuses.

Noble Tiles

• Noble Requirements: Collect specific sets of gem bonuses to claim Noble tiles, which provide additional prestige points.
  

End of Game

The game ends immediately when a player reaches 15 prestige points on their turn. That player is declared the winner.

Tips and Strategies

• Gem Collection: Balance collecting a variety of gems with focusing on specific types needed for high-value cards.

• Card Reservations: Reserve powerful cards to prevent your opponent from acquiring them and to plan your purchases.

• Noble Claims: Aim to fulfill Noble requirements early for a significant boost in points.

• Resource Management: Manage your gem tokens efficiently to maximize your purchasing power and card acquisition.