5211 (2019) Board Game – Board Game Guys

5211 is a card game designed by Tsuyoshi Hashiguchi and published by Next Move Games in in 2019. The game is known for its simple gameplay mechanics and strategic depth, making it a popular choice among board game enthusiasts.

Game Components of 5211

Oversized cards with large, colorful designs and complex patterns

5 different colored cards numbered 2-6

Special “Kododo Dragon” cards

Rulebook

How To Setup 5211

Setup for 5211 is straightforward and quick. Depending on the player count, a certain number of cards are removed from the deck: 10 cards for 2 players, 13 cards for 3 players, 0 cards for 4 players, and 15 cards for 5 players. Each player is then dealt 5 cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Play: Each round consists of three turns where players play 2 cards, then 1 card, and finally 1 more card.

Scoring: Rounds are scored based on color majority or the presence of Kododo Dragon cards.

Color Majority: The color with the most cards played wins the round, unless the limit for that color is exceeded or there is a tie.

Kododo Dragons: If the number of Kododo Dragons played meets the threshold for the player count, these cards win the round regardless of color.

Strategy: Players need to predict opponents’ moves and manage their card plays to influence the outcome of each round.

Player Experience

Playing 5211 is a fast-paced and guessing-filled experience. The game is easy to learn, taking only about 3-4 minutes to teach, but it has a depth that makes it hard to master. At lower player counts, the game feels more strategic and predictable, while at 5 players, it becomes more chaotic and unpredictable. Players must pay close attention to the cards played to adjust their strategy accordingly.

Pros

Supports 2-5 players: The game feels different at each player count.

Fast gameplay: Games last under 20 minutes.

Easy to teach: Simple rules make it accessible to both young and old, gamers and non-gamers.

High replayability: Every round keeps players guessing.

Aesthetic appeal: Large, oversized cards with colorful and complex patterns.

Portable: The game is very portable and easy to carry.

Cons

Yellow card contrast issue: The yellow cards have poor contrast, making them hard to read in certain lighting conditions.

Personal Thoughts on 5211

5211 is an excellent addition to any game collection, particularly for families or those looking for a quick filler game. It’s ideal for situations where time is limited, such as during breaks or when waiting for others. The game’s simplicity and fast-paced nature make it appealing to a wide range of players, from casual gamers to experienced players looking for a light, fun experience. However, those with vision issues may find the yellow cards problematic. Overall, 5211 is a great choice for anyone seeking a quick, engaging, and visually appealing card game.

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