Import / Export (2017) Board Game

Import / Export is a strategic board game designed by Jordan Draper and released in in 2017. The game allows 2 to 6 players to engage in a competitive economic simulation, where they must import and export goods to build their wealth and influence in the world market. With a runtime of 45 to 90 minutes, Import / Export is suitable for players aged 8 and above, making it a versatile option for families and gaming groups.

Game Components of Import / Export

Box: Deboss textured box with spot UV, or a nonstandard box size resembling a container in the base edition.

Cards: 177 unique bridge-sized cards with spot UV, including roles, imports, shipments, containers, and goods.

Boards: 6 large 2mm harbor boards and 1 large supply island/port.

Ships: 12 chipboard ships in 6 colors.

Containers: 100 chipboard shipping containers in 5 colors.

Buoys: 4 chipboard buoys.

Credits: Plastic credit cubes in denominations of 2 and 10.

Rulebook: Detailed rulebook for setup and gameplay.

How To Setup Import / Export

To set up the game, each player receives a harbor, two matching-color boats, and a hand of five cards. One boat starts at sea, while the other remains at the player’s harbor. Each boat is equipped with four starting containers. The supply island and draw deck are placed within reach, with one card per player added to the supply island to begin. Players also receive initial goods and credits based on the starting cards and their harbor setup.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Role Selection: Players choose actions each turn, with other players either participating or drawing cards.

Hand Management: Managing cards to complete shipments and contracts.

Tableau-Building: Expanding the player’s harbor and goods.

Multi-Use Cards: Cards act as roles, imports, shipments, containers, or goods.

Economic Management: Players manage credits, goods, and imports.

Game Objective

The objective is to earn the most credits by completing contracts, collecting goods, and managing shipments effectively.

The game ends when one player reaches 50 or more credits. Final scoring includes credits for individual goods, bonuses for having the most of each kind of good, and a bonus for having one of each type.

Player Experience

Import / Export offers a complex yet engaging experience, blending passive and active economic strategies driven by player decisions. Players must constantly evaluate the value of imports and goods, manage limited harbor space, and navigate the unique powers of over 100 different cards. The game’s dynamic includes silent auctions for containers, which can be both risky and rewarding, adding a layer of excitement and strategic depth.

Pros

Unique Card Powers: Over 100 unique powers available through contracts and expansions.

Economic Strategy: Deep economic management with passive and active elements.

Replayability: High replayability due to the variety of card powers and player-driven economy.

Components: High-quality components, including linen finish cards and plastic credit cubes.

Cons

Complexity: The import action, involving blind bidding, can be confusing and tricky to master.

Component Gripes: Some players find the harbor boards oversized and the credit cube denominations limited.

Learning Curve: The game has a steep learning curve due to the complex interactions between different card types and actions.

Personal Thoughts on Import / Export

Import / Export is ideal for experienced board game enthusiasts who enjoy strategic depth, economic management, and unique card mechanics. It is not a game for casual players due to its complexity and the need for careful planning and valuation. However, for those who enjoy games like Glory to Rome and are looking for a fresh take with rich strategic options, Import / Export is a compelling choice.

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