Broadhorns: Early Trade on the Mississippi (2018) Board Game

Broadhorns: Early Trade on the Mississippi is a board game released in 2018 that simulates the early days of trade along the Mississippi River. Designed by Claus Stephan and Mirko Suzuki, this game allows players to experience the challenges and excitement of being a trader in the 19th century.

Game Components of Broadhorns: Early Trade on the Mississippi

Game board featuring the Mississippi River

Player boards

Cargo cards

Expedition cards

Money and resource tokens

Ships and other game pieces

How To Setup Broadhorns: Early Trade on the Mississippi

To set up the game, players begin by placing the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects a player board and places it within reach. The cargo and expedition cards are shuffled and placed face down on designated spaces on the board. Players receive an initial amount of money and resources. The ships and other game pieces are also distributed according to the game’s initial setup rules.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Pick-up and deliver: Players collect cargo from St. Louis and deliver it to various locations down the Mississippi River.

Resource management: Managing money and resources to finance expeditions.

Economic engine-building: Players build their economic capabilities as the game progresses.

Game Objective

The objective is to accumulate the most wealth by successfully financing and executing cargo expeditions down the Mississippi River.

Player Experience

In **Broadhorns: Early Trade on the Mississippi**, players take on the roles of merchants based in St. Louis, navigating the challenges of early trade on the Mississippi River. The game requires strategic planning, efficient resource management, and a bit of luck. Players must balance the risks and rewards of each expedition, making decisions on which cargo to transport and when to invest in their economic engine.

Pros

Historical Theme: The game offers a unique historical setting, providing a glimpse into early trade on the Mississippi River.

Strategic Depth: The combination of resource management and economic engine-building creates a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Replayability: The random placement of cargo and expedition cards ensures varied gameplay each time.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be complex for new players, requiring multiple plays to fully grasp the mechanics.

Length: Games can be relatively long, often lasting over an hour.

Luck Element: The randomness of card draws can sometimes feel unfair.

Personal Thoughts on Broadhorns: Early Trade on the Mississippi

**Broadhorns: Early Trade on the Mississippi** is ideal for fans of economic and strategic board games. It suits players who enjoy games with a strong historical theme and are willing to invest time in learning the mechanics. While it may not be the best fit for casual or new board game enthusiasts due to its complexity, experienced players will find it engaging and challenging. If you’re looking for a game that requires thoughtful planning and strategic execution, **Broadhorns** is definitely worth considering.

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