Draft Cider (2022) Board Game

Draft Cider is a board game released in 2022, designed by Jason Stanford and featuring artwork by Infernal Productions. The game falls under the farming category and is known for its unique closed drafting mechanism, which adds an interesting twist to the gameplay.

Game Components of Draft Cider

Cards: Representing various apples, cider production steps, and other game elements.

Player boards: For tracking progress and resources.

Rulebook: For setup and gameplay instructions.

How To Setup Draft Cider

To set up Draft Cider, players first shuffle the deck of cards and deal a starting hand to each player. Each player receives a player board to track their progress. The remaining cards are placed face down in a draw pile. The objective is clearly explained in the rulebook, but the setup is relatively straightforward and quick.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Drafting: Players draft cards to collect the right mix of apples and production steps.

Set Collection: Players aim to create sets of cards that allow them to produce the most valuable cider.

Game Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most points by producing high-value cider and efficiently managing resources.

Player Experience

Draft Cider offers a swift and engaging gameplay experience. Given its short duration, it is ideal for fillers between longer games or for those seeking a quick, strategic challenge. The game’s simplicity and lack of complex interactions make it accessible to a wide range of players.

Pros

Quick Gameplay: Games last only about 6 minutes.

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

Strategic Depth: Despite its simplicity, the game requires strategic thinking in card drafting and set collection.

Cons

Limited Interaction: Players do not interact much with each other, which may not appeal to those seeking more social gameplay.

Luck Factor: The random draw of cards introduces a luck element that can affect game outcomes.

Personal Thoughts on Draft Cider

Draft Cider is an excellent choice for those looking for a quick, strategic game that can be played in a short amount of time. It is particularly suited for families, casual gamers, or as a filler game between more complex games. The game’s lack of complex interactions makes it less appealing to players who enjoy high social interaction, but it remains a solid option for those seeking a fast-paced, strategic experience.

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