Catan Scenario: Malta

Description

"The Catan - Malta Scenario" is a special variant for Catan games, featuring a unique Malta hex with restricted access routes, introduced at the 2022 World Championship. Key mechanics include: - *Malta hex integration* Replaces desert (Catan/Cities & Knights) or central water tile (Seafarers), placed on board edge with "11" number token (10/11 chit, 11-side up). - *Setup restrictions* No starting settlements or roads within Malta hex; building allowed on intersections and outer paths. - *Malta routes* Six dotted paths to enter; each costs 1 lumber + 1 wool to build. - *Compatibility* Works with base Catan, Seafarers, Cities & Knights, and 5-6 Player Extensions. The Catan - Malta Scenario, created for the 13th Catan World Championship in Malta (November 2022), modifies standard Catan setups by incorporating a distinctive Malta hex. In Catan and Cities & Knights, it replaces the desert hex and is positioned on the board's edge during initial layout; for Seafarers, it substitutes a random central water tile. A "10/11" number token is placed on the Malta hex with the "11" side facing up. Setup prohibits placing starting settlements or roads inside the Malta hex itself, though construction is permitted on its intersections and outer paths. The hex features six specific routes (dotted paths) for entry, each requiring 1 lumber and 1 wool to develop. This scenario is fully compatible with Catan base game, Seafarers, Cities & Knights, and their 5-6 Player Extensions, enhancing strategic board control and resource management around the island-themed hex.