Downtown (2013) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Downtown is a card game released in 2013, designed by Thomas Hartmann and published by Racky Spiele. It falls into the categories of card game, economic game, and mafia game, with gameplay centered around area majority/influence, auction/bidding, hand management, take that, and random turn order mechanics. The game is suitable for 2-4 players, with a runtime of 40-90 minutes and an age recommendation of 12+.

Game Components of Downtown

Deck of cards

Player tokens

Influence markers

Money tokens

Rulebook

How To Setup Downtown

Shuffle the deck of cards.

Place the influence markers and money tokens within reach.

Each player takes a set of player tokens.

Determine the starting player randomly.

Deal each player a starting hand of cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Downtown, players take on the roles of mafia families competing for control of the city. Through strategic bidding, area control, and hand management, players aim to gain the most influence and money by the end of the game. The player with the most influence and money at the end of the game wins.

Player Experience

Pros

Strategic depth in bidding and area control mechanics

Engaging player interaction through take-that elements

Replayability with different player counts

Cons

Some players may find the theme of mafia gameplay off-putting

Learning curve for new players may be steep

Random turn order can lead to uneven player experiences

Personal Thoughts on Downtown

Downtown offers a unique blend of economic and mafia themes, providing an engaging gameplay experience for those who enjoy strategic card games. The components are well-made, and the artwork adds to the immersive experience. However, the game may not be suitable for all players due to its thematic elements and complexity. Pricing and availability for both new and used copies can vary, so it’s worth considering if the game aligns with your preferences before purchasing. Alternatives such as Lords of Vegas or Chinatown may appeal to those looking for similar gameplay experiences. Ultimately, Downtown is worth exploring for players who enjoy a challenging and thematic card game experience, but may not be the best fit for those who prefer lighter or less confrontational games.

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