Kushi Express (2019) Board Game

Kushi Express is a fast-paced action and dexterity board game designed by Yohan Goh and published by Mandoo Games in in 2019. The game is suitable for 2 to 4 players aged 6 and up, with a runtime of around 20 minutes. The game features beautiful artwork by Vincent Dutrait and falls under the categories of Action / Dexterity and Real-time gameplay, with a main mechanism of Pattern Building.

Game Components of Kushi Express

Ingredient cubes: Representing different food items like meat, tomato, pepper, and shrimp.

Topping strips: Cheese and bacon fabrics.

Skewers: Wooden skewers with holes to fit the ingredient cubes.

Order cards: Cards showing the blueprint of the kebab to be prepared.

Touting Cards: Cards featuring a chef, used for special actions.

Shop Closing card: Acts as the game timer.

Plate: A central plate where players place their completed skewers.

How To Setup Kushi Express

To set up Kushi Express, each player receives a set of ingredient cubes, topping strips, and a skewer. The order cards are shuffled, with the Shop Closing card inserted at the bottom of the stack. The top five cards are dealt into a separate stack, and the rest are placed face down above the Shop Closing card. A plate is positioned in the center of the play area, ready for the game to begin.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Real-time pattern building: Players race to prepare kebabs according to the order cards.

Dexterity: Players must quickly assemble the kebab using the ingredient cubes and topping strips.

Order fulfillment: The first player to correctly prepare the kebab places it on the plate and takes the order card.

Touting Cards: When a Touting Card is revealed, the first player to stand and yell “Kushi!” can steal an order card from the draw pile or an opponent.

Game end: The game ends when the Shop Closing card is revealed, and the player with the most points from the order cards wins.

Player Experience

Playing Kushi Express is a frenetic and fun experience, especially with multiple players. The game requires quick reflexes, pattern recognition, and dexterity. Players must be nimble and accurate in assembling the kebabs to be the first to place them on the plate. The game is suitable for all ages, with children enjoying the simple yet challenging task of putting pieces together, while adults appreciate the finer motor skills required. However, significant skill gaps can make the game less enjoyable for some players.

Pros

Engaging theme: The game’s theme of preparing Japanese BBQ skewers is charming and well-presented.

Components: The components are pleasing to the touch, with bright colors and fun textures.

Fast-paced gameplay: The real-time aspect makes the game exciting and dynamic.

Simple yet challenging: Easy to learn but challenging to master, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

Family-friendly: Suitable for players aged 6 and above, making it a great family game.

Cons

Skill disparity: Significant differences in skill levels can make the game less fun for less skilled players.

Variable game end: The Shop Closing card can sometimes favor players who are behind, which may not be ideal for all groups.

Insert issues: The game’s insert could use improvement for better component storage.

Touting Cards mechanics: Some players find the Touting Cards mechanics too simplistic or unfair.

Personal Thoughts on Kushi Express

Kushi Express is ideal for those who enjoy real-time dexterity games and are looking for a fun, light-hearted addition to their gaming collection. It is perfect for families or casual gaming groups who appreciate quick, exciting games. However, it may not suit serious dexterity gamers or those who prefer more complex strategy games. If you’re ready for a lively and entertaining experience that combines speed, pattern recognition, and precision, Kushi Express is a fine choice.

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