Machi Koro 2 (2021) Board Game

Machi Koro 2 is a city building and dice rolling game designed by Masao Suganuma and published by Grounding in in 2021. It is the sequel to the popular game Machi Koro, where players build their own city by purchasing establishments and rolling dice to generate income.

Game Components of Machi Koro 2

Cards: 20 unique Landmark cards, establishment cards numbered 1-6 and 7-12, each with special money-making effects.

Dice: Two dice for rolling to earn money.

Coins: Plastic coins for transactions.

Player Boards: For each player to build their city.

Reference Card: A double-sided card showing the likelihood of each card type being triggered by single and double dice rolls.

How To Setup Machi Koro 2

Setting up Machi Koro 2 is straightforward. The game starts with three rows of 5 face-up cards: 5 establishments from the 1-6 deck, 5 from the 7-12 deck, and 5 Landmarks. Each player receives 5 coins and participates in a 3-round draft to choose their starting establishments. Players can buy one card per round, ensuring unique starting cities. Any duplicate cards revealed are stacked and replaced by new ones.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Rolling: Players roll one or two dice to earn money based on the establishments they own.

Establishment Purchase: Use earned money to buy new establishments or Landmarks.

Landmark Acquisition: The goal is to be the first player to build three Landmarks.

Variable Costs: Landmarks have increasing costs as more are built.

Interacting Cards: Establishments and Landmarks have various effects, including some that benefit other players.

Player Experience

Machi Koro 2 offers a engaging and accessible experience for both veteran players and newcomers. The game introduces new zoning laws, allowing players to choose their starting establishments, which adds strategic depth and customization. The variety in card effects ensures that no two games are the same, promoting endless replayability. The game maintains a friendly vibe, with no harsh penalties for players who cannot afford certain actions, and a free coin from the bank helps keep the game flowing.

Pros

Quick and Fun: Games are fast-paced and last about 30-45 minutes.

High Replayability: Unique card setups and effects ensure varied gameplay.

Strategic Depth: Players can strategize from the start with customizable city setups.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 10 and above.

Good Art and Production: High-quality cards and components.

Cons

Card Storage Issues: Sleeved cards may not fit well, and coin storage can be messy.

Some Cards Less Effective at Lower Player Counts: Certain cards may not be as beneficial in 2-player games.

Large Box with Wasted Space: The game box is larger than necessary.

Personal Thoughts on Machi Koro 2

Machi Koro 2 is ideal for fans of the original who are looking for an enhanced experience with more variety and strategic options. It is also a great introduction for new players due to its accessible gameplay and fast-paced nature. If you own the original, the question of whether to upgrade depends on how much you value the new features and increased replayability. For those who enjoy city-building games and are looking for a game that balances strategy and fun, Machi Koro 2 is a must-have addition to your board game collection.

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