West of Africa (2016) Board Game

West of Africa is a board game released in 2016, designed by Harald Lieske. The game is set in the 15th century, during the Age of Discovery, where players take on the role of explorers and merchants looking to establish trade routes and expand their influence in the West African region.

Game Components of West of Africa

Game board

Player boards

Wooden ships

Resource tokens

Trade goods tokens

Influence markers

Action tiles

How To Setup West of Africa

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Each player receives a player board, influence markers, and wooden ships.

Shuffle the action tiles and place them face down on the designated spaces on the board.

Place the resource tokens and trade goods tokens in their respective supply areas.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In West of Africa, players will take turns selecting actions to acquire resources, establish trade routes, and gain influence in various regions. The objective of the game is to accumulate the most wealth and influence by the end of the game.

Player Experience

Pros

Strategic depth with multiple paths to victory

Engaging gameplay with a good balance of luck and skill

Beautiful artwork and components

Cons

Can be overwhelming for new players

Player interaction may feel limited at times

Some luck-based elements may frustrate more competitive players

Personal Thoughts on West of Africa

West of Africa is a solid economic and civilization game that offers a good mix of strategy and player interaction. The game’s components are well-made, and the artwork adds to the immersive experience. While the game may not be suitable for casual gamers due to its complexity, it can provide a satisfying challenge for more experienced players. The pricing and availability of the game may vary, but it is worth considering if you enjoy games in the civilization and economic genres.

Overall, West of Africa is a game that offers a unique and engaging experience for those looking for a deeper gameplay experience. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, so it is recommended for players who enjoy strategic thinking and are willing to invest the time to learn the game mechanics. If you are a fan of games like Puerto Rico or Catan, West of Africa may be worth your time.

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