51st State (2010) – Board Game Guys

51st State

51st State is a post-apocalyptic themed card-driven strategy board game designed by Ignacy Trzewiczek and published by Polish company Portal Games in 2010. The game is set in the ruins of the United States, where players control one of four powers trying to build a new country. The game has since been re-released as 51st State: Master Set in 2016.

Why is 51st State Popular?

The game is popular for its immersive post-apocalyptic theme and its unique Gameplay Mechanics of 51st State. It has received positive reviews for its strategic depth and replayability. The game is also significant for its influence on other games in the genre, such as Imperial Settlers, which uses a similar card-driven mechanic.

Game Components of 51st State

Cards: Over 400 cards, including location cards, leader cards, and resource cards.

Factions: Four main factions – mutants, traders, New Yorkers, and Appalachians, with the Ultimate Edition including over 8 factions.

Resources: Various resources and skills that players can gain.

Buildings and Locations: Players can put new locations into play and send people to work in buildings.

How To Setup 51st State

To set up **51st State**, players first choose their faction and shuffle the deck of location and resource cards. Each player starts with a set of basic cards and resources. The game board is dynamic, with new locations and buildings being added as players progress. Players hire leaders and assign workers to different locations to gain resources and skills.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Utilization: Each card can be used in three different ways – invade a location for immediate resources, sign a contract for ongoing resources, or attach the location to your state for skills.

Resource Management: Players manage resources to build new locations, hire leaders, and assign workers.

Faction Abilities: Each faction has unique abilities and strengths.

Objective: The goal is to build and develop a new state by accumulating resources, skills, and controlling key locations.

Player Experience

Playing **51st State** is a deeply strategic experience that requires careful planning and decision-making. Players must balance short-term gains with long-term strategies, leveraging the multiple uses of each card to their advantage. The game offers remarkable replayability due to the vast number of cards and factions available.

Pros

High Replayability: With over 400 cards and multiple factions, each game is unique.

Deep Strategy: Players have numerous choices and paths to victory.

Dynamic Game Board: The game environment changes with each playthrough.

Engaging Theme: The post-apocalyptic setting adds a rich layer of immersion.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game can be overwhelming for new players due to the complex card mechanics.

Long Setup Time: Setting up the game can take some time.

High Learning Curve: It may take several plays to fully grasp the strategies and mechanics.

Personal Thoughts on 51st State

**51st State** is ideal for fans of strategic card games and those who enjoy deep, complex gameplay. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate the post-apocalyptic theme and are willing to invest time in learning the game mechanics. While it may not be the best fit for casual or new gamers due to its complexity, it offers a rich and rewarding experience for those who delve into it.

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