YORKTON

Roll & Write print-and-play games can often present a mixed bag, with some feeling barely worth their paper, while others truly stand out through impressive visuals and engaging gameplay. Lepra, designed by Denis Kurdiukov and published by Nuka Zombee Games, definitely falls into the latter category.

From the moment you print the game sheets, you are greeted with stunning artwork, especially if you opt for the color version. This is significant since Lepra is designed for solo play, making its aesthetics especially important for immersing yourself in the experience. Prepare for a gaming session that extends beyond a quick coffee break; players should set aside at least an hour to dive deep into this gripping challenge where you assume the role of a medieval town leader confronting a terrifying pestilence that threatens your people.

Lepra is a survival/resource management roll and write game that demands your full attention. The gameplay navigates players through two pages filled with strategic decision-making involving four unique thematic areas and a town map grid. As you fill in rows and columns of asymmetric action grids, you will actively manage resources, track used goods, and gather four essential ingredients needed to develop a cure for the plague.

As the game progresses, the pestilence will spread to new houses each turn, adding urgency to your actions. Players must establish quarantines to slow the outbreak and strive to concoct the cure before it’s too late. If the situation deteriorates, death is inevitable, demanding that you utilize your available actions wisely and adapt to the unfolding crises. Each area presents its own risks and bonuses, so prudent planning is paramount.

Kurdiukov emphasizes the game's design philosophy, stating, “I like hard games; the ones that make you actually think, fail, adapt your strategy, and fail again until you succeed. The emotional journey is integral, from the initial sense of doom to the exhilarating satisfaction upon achieving victory.”

Expect to be thrown into a cycle of struggle, with the village facing constant peril. Frequent failures are part of the experience, but each setback offers valuable lessons that lead you closer to the ultimate goal: saving your town from devastation. Kurdiukov notes that players will experience a variety of emotions throughout their playthroughs, keeping the stakes high and the tension palpable.

For those seeking even more challenge, Lepra includes both a standard and a hard mode, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, the game features beautifully crafted boards set in villages across China, Africa, and the Aztec nation, each providing a unique gameplay feel and substantial replayability.

“I invest considerable time into creating captivating art for my games to ensure they stand out,” Kurdiukov adds. “But what matters most is that the mechanics create a real sense of urgency in solving a significant problem, making you feel like a medieval lord striving to save your town.”

In conclusion, if you're looking for quick and easy gaming experiences, Lepra may not fill that niche. However, for those craving a deep, immersive, and challenging solo roll & write game, Lepra is the perfect choice to consider this season. Will you rise to the occasion and save your village from the clutches of the plague? Grab your pencil and test your strategy—adventure awaits!