Indonesia (2005) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Indonesia is a board game that was first released in in 2005. It is a game of economic strategy set in the Indonesian archipelago. Players take on the roles of entrepreneurs managing companies in Indonesia, competing to grow their businesses and maximize profits.

Game Components of Indonesia

Map Board: A brownish-grey map of Indonesia, though the graphics and labels can be somewhat hard to read.

Company Deed Tokens: Representing production companies (rice, spices, rubber, oil) and shipping companies.

Ship Tokens: Used by players to mark their shipping routes and ownership.

R&D Tracks Tokens: For tracking research advancements.

Money: Represented by paper money.

City Cards: Determine the placement and growth of cities.

How To Setup Indonesia

Setup is relatively quick: unfold the main board, shuffle and deal city cards for each era (A, B, C), and give each player their personal ship tokens, starting money, and R&D track tokens. Each player also places a token on the turn order track.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Auction/Bidding: Players bid for turn order, with research allowing for multipliers on bids.

Pick-up and Deliver: Players manage production companies that produce goods and shipping companies that deliver these goods to cities.

Tech Trees/Tech Tracks: Players can research advantages such as increased shipping capacity, mergers, and company expansions.

Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most money by efficiently managing production and shipping, and making strategic mergers and research investments.

Player Experience

Indonesia is a game that requires strategic thinking and economic management. Players must balance their investments in turn order, company mergers, and research to maximize their profits. The game is known for its lack of random elements, making it entirely about managing your tempo for profit.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Offers a rich and complex economic strategy with minimal luck involved.

Engaging Mergers: The merger mechanism is a highlight, allowing for significant strategic play and negotiations.

Beautiful Components: Despite some readability issues, the game is visually appealing.

High Replayability: The game’s multiple paths to victory and the variable city placement ensure high replayability.

Cons

Long Play Time: Games can last 3-4 hours, which may deter some players.

Complexity: The game is on the heavier side, requiring careful management of multiple elements.

Readability Issues: Some components, like the map labels, can be hard to read.

Personal Thoughts on Indonesia

Indonesia is ideal for players who enjoy medium to long-length strategic economic games with nearly no random elements. It is particularly suited for fans of games like 18xx, Civilization, and Revolution, and those who appreciate detailed economic management and strategic planning. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and length, it is a gem for those who enjoy deep, strategic gameplay.

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.