Escalado (1929) – Board Game Guys

Escalado

Escalado is a horse racing board game that was invented and patented in 1928 by Swiss inventor Arthur Gueydan and produced by the United Kingdom-based toy company Chad Valley. The game features model race horse game pieces, originally made of lead, that make their way across a long fabric race track towards the finish line at the other end. The horses move across the race track by means of a mechanical hand crank that vibrates the entire track in a random fashion so that it simulates the events of a live race. Escalado was a popular English table horse racing game from the late 1920s.

Why is Escalado Popular?

Escalado was a sensation when it was first introduced, and it broke all records during the last three months of 1928, becoming the biggest seller of all games that year. The game was popular among children in the early 20th century, but changing social stigma on gambling has made the game less appropriate for younger audiences. Despite this, Escalado remains a significant game in the history of board games, and it is still played by enthusiasts today.

Game Components of Escalado

Horses: Originally made of lead, later versions used non-poisonous metals, and more recently, plastic. Typically, there are five to eight colored horses.

Track: A long green fabric or baize track with yellow posts for the horses to navigate around.

Mechanical Hand Crank: Vibrates the track to move the horses in a random fashion, simulating a live race.

Betting Mechanism: Players can place bets on which horse will cross the finish line first.

How To Setup Escalado

To set up Escalado, lay out the green track on a flat surface. Place the colored horses at the starting line. The mechanical hand crank is positioned at the beginning of the track. Players then decide on the betting rules and amounts, which can be entirely subjective and based on personal preference.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Number of Players: 2 to 6 players can participate, with one player acting as the bookie if desired.

Mechanical Movement: The game pieces move along the track when the hand crank is turned, creating a random and unpredictable race.

Betting: Players place bets on which horse will win, adding an element of social interaction and competition.

Objective: The goal is to back the horse that crosses the finish line first and win the bets placed by other players.

Player Experience

Escalado is designed to bring family and friends together, offering a fun and interactive way to simulate horse racing. The game encourages social skills through betting and predicting outcomes, making it a engaging and lively experience. It has been praised for its simplicity and the excitement it generates, as seen in its long history and appearances in popular culture, such as in the TV show “Coronation Street”.

Pros

Social Interaction: Encourages betting and social interaction among players.

Simple yet Engaging: Easy to understand but provides hours of entertainment.

Classic Appeal: Maintains its charm despite being invented nearly a century ago.

Variable Player Count: Can be played with 2 to 6 players.

Cons

Mechanical Parts: The hand crank and vibrating mechanism can be prone to wear and tear.

Limited Strategy: The game relies largely on chance rather than strategy.

Setup Time: While not extensive, setting up the track and placing the horses can take a few minutes.

Personal Thoughts on Escalado

Escalado is a game that is perfect for families, social gatherings, and anyone looking for a light-hearted, fun experience. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy games with a strong social element and a touch of nostalgia. While it may not appeal to those seeking complex strategy, it remains a delightful way to spend time with others, fostering a sense of community and friendly competition.

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