Take the Train is a card game released in 2007 by The United States Playing Card Company. It is a game that falls into the category of card games and focuses on trains. The game is designed for 2-6 players, with a recommended age of 7 and up. Players will engage in hand management and network and route building mechanics to achieve the game’s objective.
Game Components of Take the Train
Card Deck: A custom 52-card deck featuring numbered cards (1-12) in different colors (orange, green, blue, purple, red) and special cards like Free Ride, End of the Line, and Transfer.Station Cards: These cards are essential for laying down train tracks and come in the same colors as the numbered cards.Train Fares: Plastic coins representing money, used to keep track of players’ scores.Rule Sheet: A one-page, double-sided, full-color rule sheet for easy setup and gameplay explanation.
How To Setup Take the Train
To set up the game, each player receives a set of cards (13 or 8 depending on the player count) and an equal distribution of Train Fares. The player to the left of the dealer, who has a station card, goes first. Players spread out their cards and ensure the Train Fares are evenly distributed.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Play Station Cards: Players can play a station card to start a new train line.Play Numbered Cards: Players must play numbered cards in sequence (either ascending or descending) on existing train lines. The sequence must be continuous, and players can use Free Ride cards as wild cards to substitute any number.Use Specialty Cards: Cards like End of the Line block further additions to a train line in one direction, forcing players to wrap around to the other end of the sequence. Transfer cards allow players to start a new train line without a station card.Pay Train Fares: If a player cannot play a card, they must pay one Train Fare for each numbered card and two for each special card they hold.Game Objective: The game ends when one player has played all their cards. The winner is the player with the most Train Fares remaining, which equates to the fewest points lost from their hand.
Player Experience
Take the Train offers a simple yet engaging gameplay experience suitable for families and casual gamers. The game requires strategic thinking to manage your hand and use specialty cards effectively. The short playtime and easy-to-understand rules make it accessible to a wide range of players.
Pros
Easy to Learn: Simple rules and quick setup make it easy for new players to join in.Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 7 and up, making it a great family game.Portable: The game is lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for travel or quick game sessions.Strategic Depth: Specialty cards add a layer of strategy, making the game more interesting for experienced players.
Cons
Component Quality: The card tray does not fit the cards properly, which can be annoying.Luck Factor: The draw of cards can sometimes leave players with limited options, introducing an element of luck.
Personal Thoughts on Take the Train
Take the Train is ideal for families, casual gamers, and those looking for a quick, fun game session. It’s a great introduction to sequencing and strategic card play, making it a solid addition to any board game collection. However, it may not appeal to serious gamers seeking complex gameplay mechanics.
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