Bidder Up! (2016) Board Game

Bidder Up! is a board game designed by Max Kirps and published by Ravensburger in in 2016. The game revolves around players participating in auctions to collect sets of animal cards. With a blend of bluffing and set collection mechanics, Bidder Up! offers a unique gameplay experience for 2 to 4 players.

Game Components of Bidder Up!

Animal cards featuring different species

Bid cards for players to use during auctions

Scoreboard to keep track of points

Rulebook with instructions on how to play

How To Setup Bidder Up!

Shuffle the animal cards and place them in the center of the table.

Each player receives a set of bid cards.

Determine the starting player.

Begin the first round of auctions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Players take turns being the auctioneer, putting up animal cards for auction. Players use their bid cards to place bids on the animals they want to collect. The objective is to collect sets of animal cards to earn points. The game continues until all cards have been auctioned off, and the player with the most points at the end wins.

Player Experience

Pros

Engaging gameplay that combines strategy and bluffing

Fun theme centered around collecting animal sets

Suitable for families and casual gamers

Quick gameplay with a 60-minute runtime

Cons

Limited replay value due to the relatively simple mechanics

Lack of depth compared to more complex auction games

Personal Thoughts on Bidder Up!

Bidder Up! offers a light and enjoyable gaming experience suitable for players looking for a casual and fun board game. While it may not offer the depth of more complex auction games, its simplicity makes it accessible to a wide audience. The game’s components are well-made, and the artwork by Martin Knorpp and Michael Menzel adds to the overall charm of the game.

In terms of pricing and availability, Bidder Up! can be found both new and used online, making it accessible to those looking to add it to their collection. While it may not be a must-have for seasoned gamers, it is worth considering for families and casual players who enjoy light strategy games. Those looking for more depth in their auction games may want to explore alternative options with more complex mechanics. Overall, Bidder Up! is a solid choice for a lighthearted gaming experience.

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