Splendor (renew) – – Gamereactor

When it comes to gateway board games – those titles that are simple enough for new players but have enough depth to keep veterans engaged – few have made as much of an impact as Splendor. Originally released in 2014, Splendor has long been praised for its elegant gameplay, beautiful components and its ability to turn even the most mundane mechanics of map drafting and engine building into a satisfying challenge. Fast forward to today, and the Splendor Refresh edition brings back the classic gem-building experience with a few updated tweaks. But does it still retain its luster? Let’s dig into it.

What’s new in the Refresh Edition?
If you’re already familiar with the original Splendor, you may be wondering what exactly the Refresh Edition brings to the table. The answer: not a whole lot, at least visually. The gameplay itself remains almost identical to the original, but this edition does include some updated card art and components of slightly better quality. The main change is in the game’s rulebook, which has been streamlined to be more beginner-friendly.

If you were hoping for a dramatic overhaul or expansion-type additions, you might be disappointed. However, the lack of drastic changes also means that the core experience of the game is still intact and at least more accessible than ever.

A brief overview of how it plays
For those diving into Splendor for the first time, the premise is simple. You play as a Renaissance merchant trying to gain the most prestige by building a portfolio of gem mines, transport routes and stores. This is all done by collecting gem tokens, which are used to buy development cards. These cards not only contribute to your engine by providing permanent gem bonuses, but also earn you points – or prestige – for victory. The first player to reach 15 points activates the endgame, and the player with the most points at the end wins.

The genius of Splendor lies in its simplicity. Turns are quick: players take gem tokens from the central supply, reserve a card for future purchase, or buy a card from the table with their gem tokens. The tension mounts as players compete for the same cards and tokens, often having to change their strategy when important parts of their engine are snatched away by someone else. There’s also the Nobles mechanic, where you meet certain requirements and earn bonus points in the form of visiting aristocrats. It’s subtle, strategic and immensely satisfying.

Components and art: a fresh coat of paint
The quality of the components in Splendor (Refresh) remains top notch. One of the outstanding features of the original were the poker chip-like gemstone tokens, which are satisfyingly hefty to hold and handle. These return in the Refresh edition and still feel as premium as ever. They are the kind of pieces that take the tactile experience of playing the game to the next level.

The cards themselves feature updated artwork, which is nice, but hardly groundbreaking. The new art offers a bit more detail and color variation, giving the game a more modern aesthetic. It’s a welcome update, but not something that will blow you away, especially if you didn’t mind the art in the original version. What is important is that everything looks clean and visually consistent, maintaining the polished feel of the game.

Strategy and depth: easy to learn, hard to master
The appeal of Splendor has always been its accessibility combined with strategic depth. New players can understand the rules within minutes, and the pace of the game allows them to feel competitive from the start. At the same time, experienced gamers can worry about choices as they try to build the most efficient gem engine while watching their opponents’ moves.

What makes Splendor particularly engaging is the constant balancing act between short-term gains and long-term strategy. Do you take the gem tokens you need to buy that card now, or reserve it and wait for a better opportunity? Should you focus on attracting nobles for bonus points, or just push for cheaper cards that will allow you to buy bigger cards later? The decisions aren’t always obvious, but that’s where the fun comes in.

Is the refresh worth it?
If you already own the original Splendor, the Refresh edition may not be a must-buy. The core gameplay remains unchanged and the updates, while nice, do not drastically improve the experience. That said, if you are new to the game or if you were planning to add Splendor to your collection, the Refresh edition is the perfect time to dive in.

The smooth mechanics, beautiful components and high replayability make it a staple for game nights. It’s a game that works well with two players, but really shines in larger groups of three or four, where competition for resources becomes more intense. In addition, its short playing time (about 30 minutes) makes it an excellent option for back-to-back sessions or to start a longer board game night.

Final Thoughts
Splendor (Refresh) doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it doesn’t have to. The small updates make an already great game even more polished, and it’s still one of the best gateway games currently on the market. If you’re looking for a game that offers fast turns, strategic depth and satisfying engine building, Splendor is a gem that belongs on your shelf.

Verdict: 9/10 – A classic with a fresh sheen
The Splendor Refresh edition may not contain much new content, but it refines an already brilliant game. If you don’t already have it, you should.