If Wishes Were Fishes! (2007) Board Game

If Wishes Were Fishes! is a board game designed by Christof Tisch and published by Rio Grande Games in in 2007. The game is set in the world of fishing, where players compete to catch the most valuable fish. With an interesting mix of area majority, commodity speculation, and hand management mechanics, If Wishes Were Fishes! offers a unique gaming experience for 2 to 5 players.

Game Components of If Wishes Were Fishes!

Game board

Fish cards representing different types of fish

Market cards to set fish prices

Storage tokens for limiting the number of fish players can hold

Player tokens and boards

Money and scoring tokens

How To Setup If Wishes Were Fishes!

To set up the game, players first lay out the game board, which includes the market and storage areas. Each player receives a player board and a set of storage tokens. The fish cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. Market cards are also shuffled and a set number are drawn to determine the initial market prices. Players start with a set amount of money.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Player Role: Players take on the roles of fishermen.

Fish Catching: Players catch fish, which are represented by cards.

Storage Limitation: Players have limited storage space, forcing strategic decisions on which fish to keep.

Market Fluctuations: Market prices for fish change based on the cards drawn.

Economic Management: Players must manage their money to buy and sell fish.

Objective: The goal is to catch and sell the most valuable fish, optimizing storage and market prices to maximize profits.

Player Experience

In If Wishes Were Fishes!, players immerse themselves in a dynamic fishing economy. The game requires strategic thinking to manage limited storage, predict market fluctuations, and make timely decisions on buying and selling fish. The economic and resource management aspects make the game engaging and challenging.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game offers a good balance of luck and strategy.

Dynamic Market: Market prices change, adding an element of unpredictability.

Simple to Learn: The rules are easy to grasp, making it accessible to new players.

Family Friendly: Suitable for players aged 10 and above.

Cons

Limited Player Interaction: Players primarily focus on their own fish and market strategies.

Luck Factor: The draw of fish and market cards can significantly impact gameplay.

Storage Limitations: Managing storage can be frustrating at times.

Personal Thoughts on If Wishes Were Fishes!

If Wishes Were Fishes is ideal for those who enjoy economic and resource management games. It is a great choice for families or casual gamers looking for a game that is easy to learn but still offers strategic depth. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking high levels of direct player interaction or those who prefer games with less reliance on luck.

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