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For-Ex (2017) Board Game

ByMichail

For-Ex is a board game released in 2017 and designed by Cole Wehrle. It falls under the economic category and is known for its unique gameplay mechanics involving commodity speculation and stock holding. The game is designed for 2 to 6 players, with the optimal player count being

  • With a runtime of 90 minutes, For-Ex offers an immersive and strategic gaming experience for players looking to test their skills in economic strategy.

    • Game Components of For-Ex

  • Multiple currencies
  • Contract cards
  • Loan mechanisms
  • Dividend tokens
  • Player boards

    How To Setup For-Ex

    To set up For-Ex, players first distribute the currencies and other game components. Each player receives a starting amount of money and a player board. The contract cards and dividend tokens are placed within reach of all players. The game state is initially set with the current exchange rates between the different currencies.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Player Count:** 2 – 6 players
  • Playing Time:** 90 minutes
  • Game Mechanics:**
    – Currency trading
    – Contract making
    – Loan taking
    – Dividend collection

  • Objective:** Players aim to accumulate the most money in the strongest currency by the end of the game. The game concludes when a player goes bankrupt or when the last dividend has been paid.

    Player Experience

    In For-Ex, players engage in complex financial maneuvers, making long-term contracts to trade one currency for another at an agreed-upon rate. These contracts are resolved several turns later, based on the original rate, allowing players to profit from changes in exchange rates. Players can also take loans to temporarily bolster their financial position, but they must manage these debts carefully to avoid bankruptcy.

    Pros

  • Zero Randomness:** Every change in the game state is the result of player decisions, making it a highly strategic game.
  • Deep Economic Mechanics:** Players must navigate complex currency fluctuations and contract management.
  • High Replayability:** Different player strategies and interactions ensure each game is unique.

    Cons

  • Steep Learning Curve:** The game’s mechanics can be opaque and nerdy, making it challenging for new players.
  • Long Playing Time:** Games typically last 90 minutes, which can be daunting for some players.
  • High Complexity:** The game requires careful planning and financial management, which may not appeal to casual gamers.

    Personal Thoughts on For-Ex

    For-Ex is ideal for experienced board game enthusiasts who enjoy complex economic simulations and strategic gameplay. It is particularly suited for those interested in finance and trading, as it offers a realistic and challenging environment to test their financial acumen. However, it may not be the best fit for newcomers to board games or those seeking lighter, more casual gaming experiences.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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