Favoriten (1989) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Favoriten is a racing board game that was first released in in 1989. Designed by Wolfgang Steinmeyer and featuring art by Walter Müller’s Spielewerkstatt, this game is all about betting and bluffing your way to victory. With a playtime of around 60 minutes, Favoriten is suitable for 2-5 players aged 9 and up.

Game Components of Favoriten

Betting tokens

Horse race track or board

Horse figures or markers

Betting slips or cards

Rulebook

How To Setup Favoriten

To set up Favoriten, players first lay out the horse race track or board. Each player receives a set of betting tokens and betting slips. The horses are placed at the starting line, and players then place their bets on which horses they think will win, using the betting tokens and slips. The setup is relatively straightforward, allowing players to dive into the game quickly.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Betting Mechanic: Players use tokens to bet on the outcomes of horse races.

Racing Mechanic: Horses move around the track based on predetermined rules or random events.

Earning Tokens: Players win tokens based on the outcome of their bets.

Game Objective: The objective is to accumulate the most tokens by making successful bets on the horse races.

Player Experience

Playing Favoriten involves a mix of strategy and luck. Players must carefully consider their bets, taking into account the odds and any additional information provided during the game. The game fosters a competitive atmosphere, as players cheer on their chosen horses and anxiously await the outcomes of each race. The gameplay is engaging and easy to follow, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

Pros

Easy to Learn: The game mechanics are simple and intuitive.

Engaging Theme: The horse racing theme adds a fun and exciting element to the game.

Social Interaction: Encourages interaction and competition among players.

Positive Reception: Received positive reviews and was nominated for several awards, including the 1990 Spiel des Jahres and the 1990 Deutscher Spiele Preis.

Cons

Luck-Based: The outcome of the races can be heavily influenced by chance, which might not appeal to players seeking more strategic games.

Limited Depth: Some players might find the gameplay too simplistic or repetitive.

Personal Thoughts on Favoriten

Favoriten is an excellent choice for those who enjoy light-hearted, social games with a touch of luck and strategy. It is particularly suitable for families or casual game nights, as it is easy to learn and plays quickly. However, players seeking complex strategy or deep gameplay might find Favoriten a bit lacking. Nonetheless, its positive reception and nominations for significant awards highlight its appeal and enjoyment factor.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.