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Coin Age (2013) Board Game

Coin Age is a two-player abstract strategy board game that was designed by Adam P. McIver and released in 2013 by Tasty Minstrel Games. The game is known for its unique combination of area majority/influence, area movement, and push your luck mechanics. Coin Age has gained popularity for its quick gameplay and easy-to-learn rules.

Game Components of Coin Age

  • A credit card-sized game board
  • 10 coins (1 quarter, 2 nickels, 3 pennies, 4 dimes)
  • Optional: stickers, cardstock coins, and additional maps (island, frozen land, volcano) available through Kickstarter stretch goals.

    How To Setup Coin Age

    To set up Coin Age, players need only the game board and the specified coins. The board is small enough to fit in a wallet, and the coins can be easily found in everyday change. Place the board on a flat surface, and each player is ready to start.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Category: Area Control, Microgame
  • Year: 2014
  • Designer: Adam McIver
  • Objective: Gain possession of territories on the map to obtain the most victory points.
  • Gameplay Mechanics:
    – Players take turns placing coins on the map to control spaces.
    – Coins can be stacked in decreasing size, making larger coins vulnerable to capture.
    – Each coin has a specific point value (quarter = 4 points, nickel = 3 points, penny = 2 points, dime = 1 point).

    Player Experience

    Coin Age is praised for its simplicity and portability, making it an excellent filler game for any situation. Players can quickly learn the rules and start playing, whether waiting for food at a restaurant or passing time before a game night. The game starts simply but reveals depth as players use captures and moves strategically to outmaneuver each other.

    Pros

  • Highly Portable: The game fits in a wallet and uses everyday coins.
  • Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to new players.
  • Strategic Depth: Despite its simplicity, the game offers strategic challenges as it progresses.
  • Cost-Effective: Originally available as a “Pay What You Want” Kickstarter project.

    Cons

  • Limited Components: While the simplicity is a pro, some may find the lack of additional components or complex mechanics a drawback.
  • Stretch Goals’ Usefulness: The additional components from stretch goals, such as cardstock coins and stickers, may not be seen as necessary by all players.

    Personal Thoughts on Coin Age

    Coin Age is perfect for those who enjoy quick, strategic games that can be played anywhere. It’s a great option for travelers, gamers on-the-go, or anyone looking for a fun filler game. The game’s minimalist design and use of everyday objects make it an ingenious and entertaining addition to any gaming collection.

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