House of Fado [Board Game]

Immerse yourself in the soulful world of Portuguese fado with House of Fado, a captivating medium-weight worker placement game designed by Vital Lacerda and João Quintela Martins. Set in the heart of Lisbon’s iconic Casa de Fado restaurants, where traditional cuisine meets the haunting melodies of fado music, this game invites 1–4 players (ages 14+) to manage their own fado house, attract devoted patrons, and elevate their musicians to stardom.

In House of Fado, you’ll step into the role of a restaurant manager, tasked with curating unforgettable evenings filled with the melancholic tunes of the “Guitarra Portuguesa,” the emotive voice of the fadista, and the resonant chords of the “Viola de Fado.” Strategically move your staff to hire talented musicians, charm customers, and promote your performers to gain prestige. Featuring a dynamic “bump” action mechanic inspired by The Gallerist, every decision offers rewards—and challenges—as you balance competition and opportunity in a bustling fado scene.

With a playtime of 30–60 minutes, House of Fado blends rich thematic storytelling with accessible yet challenging gameplay. Marina Costa’s evocative artwork brings the nostalgic spirit of “saudade”—a Portuguese longing for something lost—to life, while mechanics like commodity speculation, open drafting, and set collection keep every session engaging. Perfect for solo play or lively game nights, this game offers a harmonious mix of strategy and culture.

Whether you’re a board game enthusiast or a lover of fado’s soul-stirring legacy, House of Fado delivers an unforgettable experience. Will your restaurant become the most prestigious Casa de Fado in Lisbon?