Go West! (2005) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Go West! is a board game that was released in 2005 and designed by Andreas Adamek. The game is set in the American West during the era of exploration and travel. Players take on the role of pioneers venturing into the wilderness to discover new territories and build settlements. The game combines elements of abstract strategy, adventure, and exploration, making it a unique and engaging experience for players.

Game Components of Go West!

1 gameboard

80 playing cards

20 wagons

120 tokens

4 scoring pawns

4 double-move pawns

4 partition tokens.

How To Setup Go West!

To set up the game, players first place the gameboard, which represents the North American continent. Each player chooses a set of wagons and places their scoring pawns on the starting points. The playing cards are shuffled and distributed, while the tokens and double-move pawns are placed within reach of all players. The partition tokens are used to mark the different sections of the board where players can place their wagons.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics:
– Card play: Players use cards to move their wagons and gain benefits.
– Area control: Players compete to control sections of the board.
– Resource management: Managing tokens and pawns strategically.

Game Objective:
– Players aim to benefit from passing wagon trains, continuously moving westward across the North American continent, and establishing themselves further west until they reach California and the Pacific coast.

Player Experience

In **Go West**, players take on the roles of shrewd businessmen, navigating the challenges of moving wagon trains across the continent. The game offers a mix of strategic planning and tactical decision-making, as players must balance resource management with area control to maximize their benefits. The game’s theme of exploration and settlement adds a historical and adventurous flair.

Pros

Engaging Theme: The game’s American West theme is immersive and educational.

Strategic Depth: Combines card play, area control, and resource management for complex gameplay.

Competitive: Encourages strategic competition among players.

Historical Context: Provides a glimpse into the era of westward expansion.

Cons

Complex Setup: Requires careful setup and distribution of components.

Learning Curve: New players may find the rules and mechanics somewhat challenging to grasp initially.

Luck of the Draw: Card draws can significantly influence gameplay, which might not appeal to all players.

Personal Thoughts on Go West!

**Go West** is ideal for fans of strategic board games and those interested in the American West theme. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy a mix of abstract strategy and adventure elements. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity, it offers a rewarding experience for those willing to invest time in understanding its mechanics. If you’re looking for a game that combines historical context with deep strategic gameplay, **Go West** is definitely worth considering.

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.