Settlers of Catan is an incredibly fun and popular boardgame. A pioneering Euro-boardgame (so-called, due to its origins from there) hit, the game is pretty much a staple in shops and boardgame cafes the world over, including Malaysia as well.

So, if you’ve played it, do you think you’ve got what it takes to be a Settlers of Catan world champion? That’s right, the road to the “finals” in the United States later this, kicks off now!

The official Malaysian Qualifiers for the 2012 Settlers of Catan World Championships kicked-off on April 1 with 14 official stores and 10 tournament centers across five states here.

In a unique format, the “qualifiers” will take place every weekend for three months (April till June) so Catan fans can just pop by to learn the game, observe others, or play in as many official matches as they wish. Of course, do bring friends and family, as the more the merrier!

After the three months of competition, the top eight highest average scores plus the top eight best scoring finishers will qualify for the National Finals in July, with the grand champion winning an all-expenses paid trip for two to USA for the World Championships this September!

According to Imagine Games, the official organizer, the decision to use this open format aims to turn the cold, formal nature usually associated with tournaments into a fun, friendly celebration of this great game.

More info is available by emailing the organizers at imagine.games@mac.com.

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