NINE (2019) Board Game – Board Game Guys

NINE is a card game released in 2019, designed by David Sitbon and illustrated by Sorry We Are French. It falls under the categories of Card Game and Fantasy, with gameplay revolving around Hand Management, Set Collection, and Simultaneous Action Selection. The game is aimed at players aged 14 and above, accommodating 2 to 4 players for a runtime of 20 to 30 minutes.

Game Components of The Crew

Card Deck: Includes four normal suits numbered 1 to 9, and a separate trump suit numbered 1 to 4.

Task Cards: Each player receives task cards corresponding to specific cards they must win.

Communicator Tokens: Used for limited communication among players.

Logbook: Contains 50 missions with increasing difficulty.

Cardstock and Design: High-quality printing with colorblind symbols and clear task card designs.

How To Setup The Crew

To set up the game, players shuffle the deck and deal out a certain number of cards based on the mission requirements. Each player receives task cards that outline their objectives for the round. The logbook provides detailed instructions for each mission, including any special rules or conditions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Trick-Taking: Players take turns playing cards, with each player required to follow the suit of the first card if possible. The highest card in the suit or the highest trump card wins the trick.

Task Completion: Players aim to win specific cards as indicated by their task cards.

Limited Communication: Players can only communicate through revealing one of their cards with a communicator token.

Mission Progression: The game consists of 50 increasingly difficult missions. Success in each mission is required to progress, while failure necessitates replaying the mission.

Player Experience

Playing *The Crew* is a challenging yet rewarding cooperative experience. The game teaches players the intricacies of trick-taking games through its progressive missions, starting with simple tasks and ramping up to complex strategies. The limited communication mechanic adds a layer of complexity, requiring players to think carefully about their moves and coordinate silently. This game is particularly appealing to fans of traditional trick-taking card games who are looking for a cooperative twist.

Pros

Educational: Serves as a comprehensive tutorial on trick-taking games.

Cooperative: Encourages teamwork and silent communication.

Progressive Difficulty: Missions increase in difficulty, keeping the game engaging.

High Replayability: 50 missions and the ability to create custom challenges.

Awards and Recognition: Won several prestigious awards, including the Kennerspiel des Jahres.

Cons

Limited Direct Communication: Can be frustrating for players who prefer open communication.

Steep Learning Curve: Later missions can be very challenging for new players.

Theme Critique: Some reviewers have criticized the game’s theme as not being particularly compelling.

Personal Thoughts on The Crew

*The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine* is ideal for players who enjoy cooperative games and are looking to delve into the world of trick-taking card games. It is particularly suited for families or groups of friends who enjoy puzzle-solving and strategic teamwork. While it may not be the best fit for those seeking a highly thematic experience, it excels in its educational value and the unique challenge it presents. If you’re looking for a game that will test your strategic thinking and teamwork skills, *The Crew* is an excellent choice.

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