The Merchant of Venice is an independent, narrative module designed to be compatible with resource-trading board games such as Catan. In this story-driven experience, players assume the role of one of six unique characters—each with their own secret objectives, character abilities, and in-game influence.
Gameplay unfolds as usual, but with a twist: whenever a 6 or 8 is rolled, players draw from an Event Deck that introduces trade shifts, unforeseen challenges, or political developments. These evolving conditions reshape the economy, affect player interactions, and make each session unpredictable.
Use your abilities wisely, pursue your hidden goals, and navigate a world where trade, ambition, and timing determine who rises to power.
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.
What’s included in this story?
Each with a backstory and personal objective
Will luck favor you… or your rival?
Best played with a tile-based game like Catan
Disclaimer
This story is an independent, narrative module designed to be used alongside the board game Catan™.
Catan™ is a registered trademark of Catan GmbH.
TableTop Journeys is not affiliated with, authorized, sponsored, or endorsed by Catan GmbH, Kosmos, or Catan Studio.
This module contains no original components or intellectual property from the base game. A copy of the original board game is required to play.