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Colt Express (2014) Board Game

ByMichail

Colt Express is a board game set in the American Wild West, where players take on the role of bandits robbing a train. The game was designed by Christophe Raimbault and published by Ludonaute in in 2014. It has received critical acclaim for its unique gameplay mechanics and immersive theme.

Game Components of Colt Express

  • 3D train model** with cardboard carriages
  • Player characters** each with special abilities
  • Action cards** for movement, punching, shooting, stealing, and moving the Marshal
  • Loot tokens** (gems, bags of loot, suitcases)
  • Bullet cards**
  • Marshal figure**
  • Round cards** to determine the number and order of play
  • Expansions** such as Horses & Stagecoach, Indians & Cavalry, and more.

    How To Setup Colt Express

    To set up Colt Express, start by placing the 3D train model on the table, with each carriage seeded with loot tokens. Each player chooses a bandit character and places their meeple in the caboose. The Marshal begins in the locomotive. Players start with six action cards in hand, and a round card is revealed to determine the rules for the upcoming round. The round card specifies how many cards will be played, whether they are face up or face down, and any special actions that occur at the end of the round.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Gameplay Phases: Each round consists of two phases – Schemin’ and Stealin’.
  • Schemin’ Phase: Players play 2-5 action cards onto a central pile, following the rules set by the round card.
  • Stealin’ Phase: The action cards are resolved in the order they were played.
  • Actions:
  • Vertical Movement: Move from inside the car to the roof or vice versa.
  • Horizontal Movement: Move to the next car or up to three cars away if on the roof.
  • Punch: Punch another player in the same car, causing them to drop loot and move to an adjacent car.
  • Shoot: Fire at a player in a neighboring car or in sight if on the roof.
  • Steal: Take loot from the floor.
  • Move Marshal: Cause the Marshal to move and fire at bandits in the same car.
  • Objective: Become the richest outlaw by collecting the most valuable loot. A $1000 bonus is awarded to the player who fires the most bullets.

    Player Experience

    Colt Express offers a highly entertaining and dynamic gameplay experience. Players must strategically plan their actions, but the unpredictability of other players’ moves and the random events introduced by the round cards add a layer of chaos and comedy. The 3D train model and the special abilities of each character enhance the thematic experience, making it fun even when things don’t go as planned.

    Pros

  • Innovative Mechanics: Combines action programming with real-time adjustments.
  • High Replayability: Random round cards and variable player powers ensure different experiences each game.
  • Family-Friendly: Suitable for all audiences, with an “Expert” variant for experienced gamers.
  • Awards and Recognition: Winner of the 2015 Spiel des Jahres and other prestigious awards.

    Cons

  • Complexity in Planning: Players need to balance short-term and long-term strategies.
  • Luck Element: Random events and other players’ actions can significantly impact your plans.
  • Components Handling: The 3D train model and numerous cards can be cumbersome to manage.

    Personal Thoughts on Colt Express

    Colt Express is ideal for those who enjoy a blend of strategic planning and chaotic gameplay. It’s perfect for families and casual gamers due to its simple yet engaging mechanics, while also offering enough depth for experienced gamers. The game’s ability to turn bad plans into good moves through smart decisions during the resolution phase makes it a standout in the action programming genre. If you’re looking for a fun, thematic, and interactive game, Colt Express is a great addition to your board game collection.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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