51st State: Master Set (2016) Board Game

51st State: Master Set is a standalone card game based on the original 51st State game, which was released in in 2016. The Master Set was released in 2016 and designed by Ignacy Trzewiczek and published by Portal Games. It is a city-building and economic game set in a post-apocalyptic world where players compete to rebuild society and claim territory.

Game Components of 51st State: Master Set

4 factions: New York, Mutans, Appalacians, and Merchants

88 cards from the original base game

50 cards each from the New Era and Winter expansions

Wooden tokens (high-quality in the retail version)

Location cards, Connection cards, and Leader cards

Solitaire variant rules and additional promo cards

How To Setup 51st State: Master Set

To set up the game, players first choose their faction, each with unique resources and special abilities. The deck is then prepared by shuffling and dealing the appropriate cards. Players start with a basic set of resources and locations. The game board, while not a traditional board, is formed by the locations and connections made during gameplay. Detailed setup instructions can be found in the game manual.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Hand Management: Players manage their card hand to optimize resource gathering and action execution.

Card Drafting: Players draft cards to build locations, hire leaders, and gain resources.

Variable Phase Order: The order of phases can change based on player actions and card effects.

Variable Player Powers: Each faction has unique abilities and resources.

Worker Placement: Players send people to work in buildings to gain resources and skills.

Objective: The goal is to rebuild and control a new country by gathering resources, building locations, and utilizing leader skills. Each card can be used in three ways: razed for immediate resources, dealt with for ongoing resources, or built for recurring skills.

Player Experience

In **51st State: Master Set**, players immerse themselves in a post-apocalyptic world where they must rebuild society. The game offers a dynamic and strategic experience, requiring careful resource management and tactical decision-making. Players interact with their environment and other players through card actions, making each game unique.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Offers complex gameplay with multiple layers of strategy.

Replayability: High replay value due to variable player powers and card combinations.

Thematic Depth: Engaging post-apocalyptic theme that enhances the gaming experience.

Solitaire Variants: Includes rules for solo play, adding versatility.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players due to the numerous mechanics and card interactions.

Setup Time: Requires some time to set up the game, especially when mixing expansions.

Learning Curve: Steep learning curve due to the unique use of cards in three different ways.

Personal Thoughts on 51st State: Master Set

**51st State: Master Set** is ideal for experienced board game enthusiasts who enjoy complex strategy and card management. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate games with deep thematic elements and high replayability. New players may find the game challenging, but the inclusion of solitaire variants and detailed rules helps in easing the learning process. Overall, it is a great addition to any serious board game collection, offering a rich and engaging gaming experience.

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