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EL: The Chicago Transit Adventure (2019) Board Game

EL: The Chicago Transit Adventure is a board game that was released in in 2019. It is designed for 2 to 8 players, with a recommended player count of 4 for the best experience. The game is set in the bustling city of Chicago, where players take on the role of transit planners racing to build the most efficient and profitable transportation network.

Game Components of EL: The Chicago Transit Adventure

  • Game Board: A 20″ x 30″ map of Chicago’s Elevated Train System.
  • Train Pawns: 8 painted and screen-printed wooden pawns matching the 8 train lines.
  • Transit Tokens: 32 screen-printed wooden tokens.
  • Station Renovation Markers: 12 fluorescent acrylic markers.
  • Destination Cards: 67 cards featuring places to visit around Chicago.
  • Condition Cards: 28 cards that help or hinder the trip.
  • Dice: 2 six-sided dice[5.).

    How To Setup EL: The Chicago Transit Adventure

    To set up the game, each player starts at the State/Lake ‘L’ station. Players draw five destination cards, which are random locations they must visit. The game board is laid out, and the transit tokens, station renovation markers, and condition cards are distributed. Players choose their favorite train pawn and prepare for their adventure.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective: Visit five randomly drawn destinations and return to the State/Lake station before other players.
  • Gameplay: Use CTA train and bus routes to navigate.
  • Strategy: Optimize routes, manage transit tokens, and adapt to station renovations and condition cards.
  • Luck: Dice rolls and condition cards introduce randomness and challenges.
  • Player Interaction: Other players can disrupt plans by closing stations or using condition cards strategically.

    Player Experience

    Players experience a blend of strategy and luck as they navigate the challenges of Chicago’s transit system. The game is enjoyable for both locals and visitors, as it reflects real-world events and locations. Players appreciate the game’s balance, with enough twists to keep it exciting but not overwhelmingly complex. The game typically lasts 30-60 minutes, making it a great fit for game nights.

    Pros

  • Unique Theme: Utilizes Chicago’s Elevated Train System, making it a great souvenir or gift.
  • Well-Balanced: Mix of strategy, luck, and player interaction.
  • Quick Learning Curve: Easy to pick up, even for younger players with some guidance.
  • Adjustable Length: Can be extended or shortened based on player preferences.
  • High Quality Components: Well-made game pieces and board.

    Cons

  • Some Locations Hard to Find: Minor issue with locating certain destinations on the board.
  • Potential for Conflict: Closing stations can ruin friendships, adding a competitive edge.

    Personal Thoughts on EL: The Chicago Transit Adventure

    This game is perfect for anyone who loves board games, especially those with a connection to Chicago. It’s great for teens and adults, offering a fun and educational experience about the city’s transit system. The game’s design and components make it a solid addition to any game collection, and its unique theme adds a personal touch for those familiar with Chicago. Even for those who aren’t from Chicago, the game provides a fun and interactive way to learn about the city’s layout and transit system.

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