Change Horses (2008) Board Game

Change Horses is a board game released in 2008, designed by Alexander Jung. The game is categorized as a racing game with elements of bluffing and hand management. Players take on the role of horse owners participating in a high-stakes horse race where they can change horses mid-race to gain an advantage.

Game Components of Change Horses

Horses: Color-coded plastic horses.

Cards: Each card shows two different colored horses.

Wild Cards: “Change Horses” cards that allow players to switch horses mid-game.

Carrot Cards: Used in the advanced game for bidding on turn order.

Game Board: Represents the racing track.

How To Setup Change Horses

Before the game starts, each player secretly receives a horse of a particular color. The sequence of play is decided by an auction in the advanced game. Players then prepare their decks of cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Play: Players play cards that control two different colored horses.

Movement: Horses move if their color appears an odd number of times on the cards played; if the color appears an even number of times, the horse does not move.

Wild Cards: “Change Horses” cards can be played to switch horses mid-game.

Objective: The player with the horse in last place at the end of the game wins.

Advanced Game: Includes bidding with carrot cards to determine turn order.

Player Experience

Playing **Change Horses** can be quite disappointing despite its innovative rules. The game often boils down to the last player having significant control over the outcome, as they can manipulate the movement of the horses to their advantage. The addition of carrot cards in the advanced game introduces a bidding element but does not significantly improve the overall experience. Players generally find the game lacking in fun and engagement.

Pros

Interesting Card Mechanics: The card play system is clever and complex.

Unique Objective: The goal of finishing last adds a twist to traditional racing games.

Advanced Game Mode: Includes bidding, which adds a new layer of strategy.

Cons

Last Player Advantage: The game often comes down to the last player’s move, reducing strategy for others.

Not Fun: Many players find the game unenjoyable and lacking in engagement.

Limited Replay Value: Players are unlikely to want to play the game multiple times.

Personal Thoughts on Change Horses

**Change Horses** is not for everyone, especially those looking for a thrilling and balanced racing game experience. It might appeal to players interested in unique game mechanics and those who enjoy strategic card play, but it falls short in delivering an enjoyable and competitive game environment. If you’re a fan of horse racing games or are looking for something different, you might want to consider other options.

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