Camel Up (Second Edition) (2018) Board Game

Camel Up is a racing board game that was first published in in 2018. The second edition, released in 2018, improved upon the original game with updated components and rules. The game has gained popularity for its unique mechanics and engaging gameplay.

Game Components of Camel Up

Board: Larger 2×2 board compared to the first edition, with a pop-up tree and curved race track

Camels: Plastic camels, which are chunky and heavy, replacing the wooden ones from the first edition

Dice: Engraved dice, including a grey die for the crazy camels

Dice Pyramid: New design, though sometimes the dice release mechanism can be problematic

Cards and Tiles: High-quality thick cardboard

Coins: Plastic coins that make a clanking noise when collected

Crazy Camels: New addition, represented by a grey die, which can significantly affect the game outcome

How To Setup Camel Up

Setup involves placing the board, setting up the dice pyramid, and distributing the betting tickets and other components. The game board is easy to assemble, with the pop-up tree adding a visually appealing element. Players receive their starting money and betting tickets. The crazy camels are integrated into the setup, adding an extra layer of unpredictability.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Betting: Players bet on which camels will come in first and second in each leg of the race.

Dice Rolling: Dice are released from the pyramid one at a time, determining which camels move.

Camel Movement: Camels can land on top of each other and be carried forward.

Crazy Camels: Grey dice representing crazy camels can move in the opposite direction, adding chaos.

Game Objective: The player with the most money at the end of the race wins.

Player Experience

**Camel Up (Second Edition)** offers a high-energy experience with a mix of strategy and random chance. The game is easy to learn but challenging to master, making it enjoyable for casual and seasoned gamers alike. Players enjoy the excitement of betting and the unpredictability introduced by the crazy camels. The game fosters a competitive atmosphere, especially with larger player counts.

Pros

Engaging Theme: Betting on camel races creates a fun and competitive environment.

Components Quality: High-quality components, including the board, cards, and dice.

Replayability: Each game is different due to the random dice rolls and crazy camels.

Social Interaction: Encourages cheering and banter among players.

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to new players.

Cons

Randomness: Can feel too random, especially in the early legs of the game.

Dice Pyramid Issues: Sometimes the dice release mechanism is problematic.

Setup for 2 Players: Officially not recommended for 2 players, though it can still be played as a variant.

Personal Thoughts on Camel Up

**Camel Up (Second Edition)** is ideal for those looking for a light-hearted, high-energy game with a good balance of strategy and luck. It’s perfect for casual groups and families, as well as for players seeking to unwind after a more complex game. The addition of crazy camels adds a delightful layer of unpredictability, making each game unique and exciting. If you enjoy games with random chance and a playful atmosphere, **Camel Up** is definitely worth considering.

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