Tomb Trader (2017) Board Game

Tomb Trader is a board game released in 2017, designed by Shaz Yong and published by Level 99 Games. The game is set in an adventurous theme where players take on the roles of tomb raiders trying to gather valuable relics. With hidden roles, negotiation, and simultaneous action selection, Tomb Trader offers a unique gameplay experience for 3-6 players aged 6 and above.

Game Components of Tomb Trader

Game board representing a tomb

Player tokens and character cards

Treasure cards

Negotiation tokens

Variable player power cards

Timer for the one-minute negotiation phase

How To Setup Tomb Trader

To set up Tomb Trader, players first place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects a character card, which provides unique abilities and starting resources. The treasure cards are shuffled and placed within the tomb sections on the board. Players then receive their negotiation tokens and any other starting components specified by their character cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Simultaneous Action Selection: Players choose which section of the tomb to explore simultaneously.

Negotiation: Players have one minute to negotiate and divide the treasure among themselves.

Variable Player Powers: Each character has unique abilities that can be used during the game.

Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most valuable treasure by navigating the tomb, negotiating effectively, and utilizing your character’s abilities.

Player Experience

In Tomb Trader, players dive into an ancient tomb, each with their own agenda and abilities. The game is fast-paced, with a significant emphasis on negotiation and strategic decision-making. Players must balance their own interests with the need to cooperate and negotiate with others to maximize their treasure haul. The one-minute negotiation phase adds an element of urgency and excitement, making each round dynamic and unpredictable.

Pros

Engaging Negotiation Mechanics: The game’s negotiation phase is a standout feature, encouraging active player interaction.

Variable Player Powers: Unique character abilities add replayability and diversity to each game.

Quick Rounds: The game consists of only 6 or 7 rounds, making it relatively short and intense.

Social Interaction: It fosters a high level of social interaction among players.

Cons

Time Pressure: The one-minute negotiation can be stressful for some players.

Luck in Treasure Distribution: The division of treasure can sometimes feel random or unfair.

Limited Game Length: Some players might find the game too short.

Personal Thoughts on Tomb Trader

Tomb Trader is ideal for players who enjoy negotiation and social interaction in their games. It’s a great fit for groups looking for a game that combines strategy with rapid decision-making and teamwork. While it may not be the best choice for those who prefer long, complex games or avoid time pressure, it offers a unique and engaging experience for fans of adventure and negotiation games.

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