An Infamous Traffic (2016) Board Game

An Infamous Traffic is a board game released in 2016, designed by Cole Wehrle. The game is set in the post-Napoleonic era and focuses on economic, industry, manufacturing, negotiation, and political themes. Players take on the roles of British merchants involved in the opium trade in China during the 19th century.

Game Components of An Infamous Traffic

Game board depicting trade routes and regions

Player boards for managing individual company operations

Cards representing rumors, prizes, and events

Tokens for resources, ships, and other game elements

Dice for resolving certain actions

Scion tokens for social climbing in London

Rulebook and other supporting materials

How To Setup An Infamous Traffic

Setting up An Infamous Traffic involves several steps. First, place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects a player board and places it within reach. Shuffle and distribute the starting hand of cards to each player. Set up the supply of tokens, dice, and other game components according to the rulebook. Determine the starting player, and each player sets their initial resources and ships. Finally, prepare the rumor deck and prize cards for the London Season, which is a key component of the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Asymmetric Play: Players take on different roles such as British firms, smugglers, and the Chinese government, each with unique abilities and objectives.

Resource Management: Manage resources such as opium, ships, and money to execute trades and expand operations.

Card-Driven Mechanics: Use cards to influence trade, spread demand, and navigate challenges.

Dice Rolling: Resolve conflicts and certain actions using dice.

Social Climbing: Participate in the London Season to gain prestige and respectability.

Objective: The game’s ultimate objective is not just about accumulating wealth, but also achieving social success and respectability in London.

Player Experience

Playing An Infamous Traffic can be both captivating and frustrating. The game requires careful management of resources, strategic planning, and a keen eye on the social dynamics in London. Players must navigate the complexities of the opium trade, including conspiracies, price-setting, and rivalries. The game’s design ensures that success is not solely based on economic prowess but also on social standing, which can sometimes feel influenced by chance. This mix of strategic depth and unpredictability makes the game engaging but also challenging.

Pros

Historical Depth: The game offers a detailed and nuanced exploration of a significant historical period.

Complex Strategy: It requires a deep understanding of resource management, card play, and social dynamics.

Thematic Integrity: The game stays true to its theme, providing an immersive experience.

Replayability: With multiple roles and random elements, the game offers high replay value.

Cons

Learning Curve: The game is complex and can be difficult to teach and learn.

Length: Games can be lengthy, lasting between 45 to 90 minutes.

Frustration: The game can be emotionally demanding, with players sometimes feeling limited by game states or experiencing unexpected setbacks.

Opaqueness: The rules and mechanics can be hard to grasp for new players.

Personal Thoughts on An Infamous Traffic

An Infamous Traffic is a game for experienced board game enthusiasts who appreciate complex, thematic games. It is particularly suited for those interested in historical simulations and willing to invest time in understanding the game’s mechanics. While it may not be for everyone due to its complexity and potential for frustration, it offers a unique and illuminating gaming experience that comments on the methods and motivations of historical figures involved in the opium trade. If you enjoy games that tell compelling stories and challenge you strategically, An Infamous Traffic is definitely worth exploring.

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