Welcome to “The Merchant of Venice,” a fresh variant of Settlers of Catan. In this unofficial story, you step into the role of one of six unique characters, each with their own role, secret objectives, and special actions to use during the game. Every turn, when a 6 or 8 is rolled, you draw an event card that introduces unexpected twists. These cards bring surprising trade advantages, setbacks, or political intrigue into play, ensuring no two games feel the same. Discover your destiny, use your special abilities, and build your empire in a world where trade and adventure collide!
Meet the characters…
Antonio, The Merchant
A born trader, always looking for profit and new opportunities. The Merchant travels through markets and ports, with a sharp eye for deals and value. His charm and persuasion earn him allies, but make him feared by rivals. His goal is not just wealth, but also control over Europe’s trade routes.
Shylock, The Banker
A master of finance and a brilliant strategist. With an unmatched eye for numbers and risk, he accumulates wealth behind the scenes. His power is subtle but undeniable. His greatest ambition? A monopoly over the economy of his time.
Portio, The Captain
As leader of the Venetian fleet, The Captain is an adventurer and strategist. He knows the dangers of the Mediterranean like no other and defends his trade fleet from pirates and storms. His pride is great, but his loyalty to Venice even greater.
Gratiano, The Diplomat
With a silver tongue and unmatched negotiation skills, The Diplomat seeks peace and stability. Yet he’s not above backroom politics, often manipulating opponents subtly. He dreams of a world where alliances transcend borders.
Jessica, The Architect
The Master Builder is a visionary architect designing cities and fortresses meant to stand the test of time. Her creations are both practical and artistic masterpieces. She strives for perfection and dreams of having her name immortalized in stone monuments.
Bassanio, The Spy
Thriving in the shadows, The Spy constantly hunts for secrets others wish to keep hidden. Cunning, discreet, and dangerous, he collects information and converts it into power. His loyalty is uncertain — except to himself and his mission.
Events
Throughout the game, events may occur. If a player rolls a 6 or 8 on their turn, they draw the top card of the event deck and read it aloud. If the event lasts multiple turns, it remains face-up on the pile. If another 6 or 8 is rolled while an event is active, nothing happens until the event ends. After it’s over, the card is placed face-down on a second pile. Once all events have been used, reshuffle and reuse the deck.
The Merchant of Venice
In this unofficial storyline, you play as one of up to six characters in 1600s Venice. Each character has their own secret goal, which earns you victory points. Throughout the game, events occur that impact one or more players.
This story is compatible with the board game Settlers of Catan by 999 Games, but is not produced or distributed by 999 Games.
What’s included in this story?
Each with a backstory and personal objective
Will luck favor you… or your rival?
Compatible with the base game and Seafarers expansion
This story is compatible with the board game Settlers of Catan by 999 Games, but is not produced or distributed by 999 Games.