The World of Azul: An Overview
Azul is an award-winning board game in which players create beautiful tile mosaics through strategic choices. Each game in the Azul series offers a unique approach to the theme, blending strategy, timing, and aesthetics to create a deeply satisfying gaming experience. Here’s a look at the different Azul games, ranked by how much we like them, including a handy expansion and travel editions for on-the-go play.
Azul Basic Games
Here are the different versions of Azul, ranked by our favorites:
Blue: Garden of the Queen
Azul: Queen's Garden is our favorite version of the game. In this game, players are challenged to design the most beautiful gardens for the queen using colorful tiles. This version introduces new strategies and elements, such as planting flowers and placing statues, which gives the game a fresh and deeper dimension. Queen's Garden offers a perfect mix of strategy and beauty, which is why it tops our list.
Azul: Summer Pavilion
Azul: Summer Pavilion takes players on the task of building the Portuguese king’s summer pavilion. This version of Azul introduces new tactics, such as temporarily storing tiles and collecting specific sets to achieve higher scores. The addition of an extra layer of strategy makes Summer Pavilion one of the most beloved versions of Azul. It’s a game that is both visually appealing and strategically satisfying.
Blue
Azul is the original game that started it all. Players try to create the most beautiful mosaic by collecting tiles and placing them strategically. The game is easy to learn but offers a lot of depth, making it a classic in the board game world. Azul has won numerous awards for its accessibility and elegance, and remains a favorite for both casual players and hardcore strategists.
Blue: The Windows of Sintra
Azul: The Windows of Sintra offers a different take on the Azul concept, with players tasked with creating the beautiful stained glass windows of the Sintra Palace. This version introduces new elements, such as the moving craftsman, which adds an extra layer of strategy. While not our absolute favorite, The Windows of Sintra still offers a unique and satisfying experience for fans of the original.
Azul Expansion: Crystal Mosaic
The Crystal Mosaic expansion adds new features to the base game of Azul. With transparent overlays for the player boards, this expansion helps to improve the visual experience and makes it easier to keep the tiles in place. In addition, Crystal Mosaic introduces new scoreboards that add even more variety and strategy. This expansion is perfect for players who want to deepen and refine their Azul experience.
Azul Mini: Perfect for on the go
For those who like to play Azul on the go, there are two handy mini versions available that are ideal for travelling:
Blue Mini
Azul Mini is a compact version of the original Azul game, designed for maximum portability. It retains all the strategic depth and visual appeal of the full game, but in a more manageable format. Perfect for on the go or for a quick game wherever you are.
Azul: Summer Pavilion Mini
Summer Pavilion Mini offers the same beautiful and strategic gameplay as the larger Summer Pavilion, but in a conveniently smaller format. It is the ideal choice for Azul fans who want to play their favorite game anytime, anywhere, without compromising on quality or experience.
Azul is a Timeless Classic
Azul remains one of the most beloved board games for its beautiful design, accessible rules, and deep strategic possibilities. Whether you want to design the Queen’s colorful gardens or are looking for a compact game for on the go, Azul offers something for everyone. Ready to create your own masterpiece? Then click on the bold links above to purchase your favorite Azul game or expansion and begin your artistic adventure!