Escalado (1929) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Escalado is a classic horse racing board game that was first released in 1929 by Chad Valley Co Ltd. and Waddingtons. It has since become a popular game for families and friends to enjoy. The game simulates the excitement of horse racing and involves betting and bluffing mechanics to add an element of strategy and suspense.

Game Components of Escalado

Model race horse game pieces (originally made of lead, later of non-poisonous metals and plastic)

Green fabric or baize race track

Mechanical vibrating hand crank

Yellow posts on the track for navigation

Up to eight distinctively coloured horses

How To Setup Escalado

To set up Escalado, players lay out the green fabric or baize race track and place the model horse game pieces at the starting line. The mechanical vibrating hand crank is positioned at one end of the track. Players then place their bets on which horse they predict will cross the finish line first.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Players take turns using the mechanical hand crank to vibrate the track, moving the horses in a random fashion.

Game Objective: The objective is to correctly predict which horse will cross the finish line first and win the bets placed by the players.

Number of Players: 2 to 6 players can participate.

Roles: One player acts as the bookie, managing the bets.

Player Experience

Escalado offers a fun and interactive way to simulate horse racing, allowing players to experience the thrill of betting and racing without the real-world stakes. The game encourages social interaction and strategic betting, making it a great addition to family game nights or social gatherings.

Pros

Social Interaction: Encourages betting and social engagement among players.

Simple yet Engaging: Easy to set up and understand, yet provides exciting gameplay.

Historical Significance: A classic game that has been enjoyed for nearly a century.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players of various ages.

Cons

Mechanical Reliability: The mechanical hand crank can be prone to wear and tear.

Limited Strategy: The movement of the horses is largely random, limiting strategic play.

Space Requirements: The game requires a decent amount of space for the track.

Personal Thoughts on Escalado

Escalado is a charming and nostalgic game that is perfect for those who enjoy classic board games with a social twist. It is ideal for families, casual gamers, and anyone looking to add a bit of retro fun to their game collection. However, it may not appeal to players seeking complex strategies or high-tech game mechanics. For fans of simple, enjoyable games that bring people together, Escalado is a great choice. Even characters like Roy Cropper from *Coronation Street* have hailed it as a favourite, which speaks to its enduring charm.

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