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Air Mail (2022) Board Game

ByMichail

Air Mail is a board game released in 2022, designed by David Prieto and illustrated by Ludonova. The game falls under the categories of Aviation / Flight, Industry / Manufacturing, and Transportation, offering players a unique experience in the world of air mail delivery.

Game Components of Air Mail

  • Double-sided Board: Map of the United States (for 2-5 players) and Map of Canada (for 2-3 players)
  • 90 Packages (18 of each color)
  • 60 Permit Cards
  • 12 Special Permit Cards
  • 12 Postal Service Decree Cards
  • 64 Express Delivery Cards for the United States Map
  • 52 Express Delivery Cards for the Canada Map
  • 18 City Bonuses
  • 1 Starting Player Token
  • 1 Rulebook
  • 5 Income Counters
  • 5 Technology tokens

    How To Setup Air Mail

    To set up the game, players start by placing the double-sided board corresponding to the number of players. Each player selects an aviation company and places their Executive Plane on the starting square. The Permit Card Deck is shuffled, and each player receives a starting hand of Permit Cards. The Postal Service Decree Cards and Express Delivery Cards are also prepared according to the rules. Players then determine the starting player, and the game begins.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Transporting Packages:** Deliver packages between different divisions of the country. The maximum distance is determined by the player’s technology level, which can be improved during the game.
  • Complying with Postal Service Decrees:** These are common objectives activated during the game, scored by all players.
  • Making Express Deliveries:** Players gain income from express deliveries they possess and have fulfilled by the end of the game.
  • Plotting Routes:** Extend air routes by connecting different divisions using Permit Cards.
  • Government Subsidies:** Players can ask for grants to aid in their operations.
  • Objective:** The player who earns the most income for their company wins the game.

    Player Experience

    Playing Air Mail feels like a strategic adventure through the golden age of aviation. Players must balance route-building, technological advancements, and compliance with postal service decrees to maximize their profits. The game offers a dynamic experience with each player needing to adapt their strategy based on the cards they draw and the actions of their opponents.

    Pros

  • Engaging Strategy:** The combination of route-building, technology improvement, and decree compliance makes for a deeply strategic game.
  • Varied Gameplay:** Each game can be different due to the random distribution of cards and the dynamic nature of player actions.
  • Family-Friendly:** Suitable for players aged 10 and above, making it a great option for family game nights.
  • Historical Context:** Set in the context of the 1925 “Air Mail Act,” it adds a touch of historical intrigue.

    Cons

  • Complexity:** New players might find the rules and gameplay mechanics somewhat complex to grasp initially.
  • Length:** The game can take up to 75 minutes, which may be too long for some players.
  • Luck Factor:** The draw of cards can introduce a significant element of luck, which may not appeal to all players.

    Personal Thoughts on Air Mail

    Air Mail is ideal for fans of route-building and economic games who enjoy a mix of strategy and history. It is a great choice for families looking for a game that challenges younger players to think strategically while being enjoyable for adults as well. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking quick, light-hearted games or those who prefer games with minimal luck involved.

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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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