What exactly do these new options mean?

[desertman]

I'm glad that we now can make it clear when creating a new table whether or not we want to play with the so-called "Friendly Robber."

But I do not understand the options "Restart Turn" and "Easy Start."

Can someone explain these options, please?

Thank you.

[darhf]

Easy start is a Cities & Knight Variant, compatible with the base game :

Many players, especially those new to the game, find it difficult
to get started if a lot of “7”s are rolled and/or the barbarians
strike early. For these players, or for players who wish a friendlier
game, use these rules:

• If any player rolls a “7” on that player’s first two turns, they
should re-roll. Continue rolling until a result other than “7”
is obtained. Beginning with the first player’s 3rd turn, all of
the normal rules for rolling a “7” apply.

• Do not roll the event die during the first two turns of each
player. The barbarian ship does not move, and no player
draws any progress cards during this time. Starting with the
first player’s third turn, roll all three dice and resolve
them normally.

This variant is designed to give all players a chance to
get “rolling” at the beginning of the game without being
handicapped by an early barbarian attack or by rolling
a lot of “7”s.

Restart Turn just allows you to change your mind and undo everything you did since the last "not undoable" action. For instance, you can place a settlement and a road, and click the button to change your mind and place them somewhere else.

[AIEJBCKL]

The "Easy Start" variant is designed to significantly decrease and stabilize game duration, effectively mitigating any discomfort experienced at the beginning of the game, particularly when unfortunate events occur. This variant is highly recommended for new players and is suggested to be the default option.

On the other hand, the "Nasty" variant tends to extend the game duration and introduces an element of unpredictability. This variant is tailored for seasoned players, aiming to heighten the game's intensity. However, it is not advised for new players or those who may not be mentally prepared for its challenges.

The impact of the "Knight Errant" variant on the game is less significant compared to the previous two variants. Its implementation can be decided based on personal preference.