Azul (2017 Next Move/Plan B First Edition)

Azul burst onto the board gaming scene in 2017 like a mosaic tile snapping perfectly into place. Designed by Michael Kiesling and published by Next Move Games (an imprint of Plan B Games), this abstract strategy game drew its inspiration from the azulejos, the ornate ceramic tiles that have decorated Portuguese architecture since the Moors introduced them to the Iberian Peninsula. The game won the 2018 Spiel des Jahres, the most prestigious award in the board gaming world, and quickly became one of the best-selling modern board games globally.

For collectors, the 2017 first edition represents the original production run of a game that has become a modern classic. While Azul remains in print and widely available, the first edition has subtle differences from later printings that make it a desirable piece for those who collect landmark games.

What Makes Azul Special

Azul succeeds because it occupies a rare sweet spot in game design. It is simple enough to teach to someone who has never played a board game beyond Monopoly, yet deep enough to reward hundreds of plays with new strategic discoveries. A game takes 30 to 45 minutes, accommodates two to four players, and produces surprisingly tense moments from what looks like a calm, colorful puzzle.

The gameplay revolves around drafting tiles from shared factory displays and placing them on your personal player board. You are building a mosaic wall, row by row, and every tile you take affects what your opponents can access. The tension comes from the fact that tiles you cannot place on your board cost you points. Taking too many of the wrong color can result in a devastating penalty round, turning a comfortable lead into a frantic scramble.

The physical production is a major part of the appeal. The tiles are weighty, satisfying Bakelite-style resin pieces that feel wonderful to handle. The click of tiles being placed on the player boards, the tactile pleasure of scooping them from factory displays, and the visual beauty of a completed mosaic wall all contribute to an experience that transcends the mathematical puzzle underneath.

History and Context

Michael Kiesling is one of the most accomplished game designers in the hobby. His collaborative work with Wolfgang Kramer produced multiple Spiel des Jahres winners, including Tikal (1999) and Torres (2000). Azul, however, was Kiesling's solo design, and it may be his most commercially successful creation.

Plan B Games was founded by Sophie Gravel, who had previously led F2Z Entertainment (the parent company of Z-Man Games, Plaid Hat Games, and others). Plan B's launch lineup included Azul, and the game's runaway success established the publisher as a major player in the industry virtually overnight. The Next Move Games imprint was subsequently created specifically for the Azul line and related titles.

The game's theme was inspired by King Manuel I of Portugal, who, after visiting the Alhambra palace in southern Spain, was so captivated by the Moorish decorative tiles that he ordered his own palace to be decorated with similar azulejos. This historical backdrop gives the abstract gameplay a charming thematic framework.

Azul's success spawned several standalone sequels: Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra (2018), Azul: Summer Pavilion (2019), and Azul: Master Chocolatier (2021). The original game remains the most popular and widely played.

Identifying the First Edition

Distinguishing a 2017 first edition from later printings requires attention to several details:

Copyright and Production Date: The first edition will show a 2017 copyright date on the box and rulebook. Later printings may show updated dates.

Box Art: The first edition box art is consistent with later printings in overall design, but print quality, color saturation, and cardboard weight can vary slightly between production runs. First edition boxes tend to have a slightly different finish.

Component Quality: Early production runs of Azul were manufactured with particular attention to the tile quality. The resin tiles in first edition copies are generally consistent with later printings, but some collectors report subtle differences in weight or surface finish between production batches.

Rulebook: The first edition rulebook contains the original rules text. Later printings may incorporate minor clarifications or errata.

Barcode and SKU: The original SKU for the first edition is PBG40020. Check the barcode on the box bottom.

Language: The first edition was released in multiple language versions. English-language first editions from Plan B Games are the most sought after in North American collecting circles.

Condition Grades

Sealed / New in Shrink: Unopened with original shrink wrap intact. The premium condition for collectors.

Like New / Unpunched: Opened but tiles are in their original bags or sheets. Player boards are unscored. Rulebook is pristine. Box shows no wear.

Very Good: Played but well maintained. All 100 tiles present and in good condition with no chips or cracks. Player boards show minimal wear. Box has light shelf wear.

Good: Regular play wear evident. Tiles may show minor surface wear. Player boards may have light scuffing. Box shows moderate wear. All components present.

Fair: Significant wear. Tiles may have chips or discoloration. Box is damaged. Components may show staining. Missing tiles dramatically reduce value.

Current Market Values

Condition	Estimated Value
Sealed / New in Shrink	$50 - $80
Like New / Complete	$35 - $55
Very Good (complete)	$25 - $40
Good (complete)	$15 - $25
Fair / Incomplete	$5 - $15

Azul remains in print, which keeps secondary market prices relatively modest. The first edition premium is currently small but may grow as the game ages and first edition copies become scarcer. Limited edition variants (such as the Crystal Mosaic expansion or promotional items) can command higher prices.

What to Look for When Buying

Count the tiles. Azul contains exactly 100 tiles (20 each of five colors). A missing tile makes the game unplayable and significantly reduces value. Count them or ask the seller to confirm.

Inspect tile condition. The resin tiles are durable but not indestructible. Check for chips, cracks, or deep scratches. Minor surface wear from shuffling is normal and acceptable.

Check the player boards. The cardboard player boards can warp over time, especially in humid environments. Boards that lie flat are preferable.

Verify the fabric bag. The game includes a cloth bag for drawing tiles. Check that the bag is present and in good condition (no tears, stains, or broken drawstrings).

Look for the first player tile. The distinctive "1" tile is small and easily lost. Confirm its presence.

Consider the scoring track. The player boards include a scoring track around the edge. Check that no scores have been permanently marked (some players use markers instead of the scoring cubes).

Azul is one of those rare games that appeals equally to hardcore strategy gamers and casual family players. The 2017 first edition marks the beginning of what has become a modern board gaming phenomenon, and for collectors who appreciate the intersection of beautiful design and brilliant gameplay, it is a worthy addition to any collection.

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