Great Western (2011) Board Game

Great Western is a board game released in 2011, designed by Christof Tisch and featuring artwork by W. Nostheide Verlag GmbH. The game falls under the category of trains and involves dice rolling as a core mechanism. It is designed for 2-4 players, with a runtime of around 40 minutes and recommended for ages 10 and up.

Game Components of Great Western

Game board

Train cards

Track tiles

Goods cubes

Dice

Player tokens

How To Setup Great Western

Lay out the game board

Shuffle the train cards and place them face down

Place the track tiles in a stack

Distribute the goods cubes and player tokens to each player

Roll the dice to determine the starting player

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Great Western, players take on the role of railroad barons competing to build the most profitable rail lines. By laying track tiles, purchasing train cards, and delivering goods, players aim to earn the most points by the end of the game.

Player Experience

Pros:

Strategic depth in planning rail routes

Engaging gameplay with dice rolling elements

Competitive nature keeps players invested

Cons:

Limited player interaction

Luck-based outcomes with dice rolling

Personal Thoughts on Great Western

Great Western offers a satisfying blend of strategy and luck, making each playthrough dynamic and engaging. The game’s components are well-crafted, adding to the overall immersive experience. While the game may not be suitable for players seeking heavy player interaction, it is a solid choice for those looking for a strategic challenge in a train-themed board game. The pricing and availability of both new and used copies make it accessible to a wide range of players. For those interested in similar games, alternatives like Ticket to Ride or Railways of the World may also be worth exploring.Ultimately, Great Western is worth your time if you enjoy strategic board games with a train theme and are looking for a game that offers both depth and replayability.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.