Engine, Engine No. 9 (2010) Board Game

Engine, Engine No. 9 is a children’s board game released in 2010 by AMIGO. Designed by Bob Lindner and illustrated by Alexander Jung, this game is all about racing trains and having fun with dice rolling and tile placement mechanics.

Game Components of Engine, Engine No. 9

Game board

Three colored track tiles

Trains of different colors for each player

Three dice (one colored, two numbered)

Repair tokens (for advanced rules)

Depot spaces

How To Setup Engine, Engine No. 9

To set up the game, place the board in the center of the table. Each player selects all the trains of one color. The three colored track tiles are oriented in either direction and placed in their starting spots on the board.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Roll-and-Move Mechanic: Players roll three dice to determine which track moves and how many spaces a train can move.

Colored Die: Determines which colored track tile will move into the empty slot on the board.

Numbered Dice: Represent the value that one of the player’s trains must move.

Objective: The first player to get all three of their trains into the depot wins.

Advanced Rules: Include the use of repair tokens to determine which colored track tile moves on a future turn.

Player Experience

Players take on the role of conductors, navigating their trains through a dynamic track system. The game offers immediate feedback on strategic decisions, which is engaging, especially for children. However, as the game progresses and more trains reach the depot, players have fewer strategic options, leading to a loss of agency and potential frustration. The moving tracks introduce elements of risk and unpredictability, which can be both exciting and frustrating.

Pros

Immediate Feedback: Provides quick feedback on strategic decisions.

Rules Light: Easy to learn with minimal rules.

Engaging Components: Nice production quality that draws kids in.

Dynamic Tracks: Creates interest and risk with moving tracks.

Cons

Loss of Agency: Players lose strategic options as the game progresses.

Frustration: Potential for long and frustrating gameplay near the end.

Chaos: The game can devolve into chaos, especially with the moving tracks.

Personal Thoughts on Engine, Engine No. 9

Engine, Engine No. 9 is a game that, while it has its charms, particularly for train-loving children, may not be the best choice for everyone. It excels in providing immediate feedback and engaging kids with its colorful and dynamic setup. However, the loss of strategic options and potential frustration as the game nears its end might make it less enjoyable for some players. It is best suited for families with young children who enjoy simple, interactive games with a train theme. For adults or more experienced gamers, it might not offer enough complexity or satisfaction.

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