Mercado (2018) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Mercado is a board game that was released in 2018 by Fiore GmbH. The game is set during the Renaissance period and focuses on economic aspects such as trading and market manipulation. The game has been designed for 2-4 players and has a runtime of around 30 minutes. It is suitable for players aged 10 and above.

Game Components of Mercado

Player Bags: Each player has a personal bag containing different coins.

Market Stalls: Panels representing various market stalls with luxury goods.

Coins: Wooden discs in six different colors used as currency.

Privilege Tokens: Cardboard tokens offering special benefits.

Seals: Tokens awarded as consolation prizes or for special achievements.

Counterfeit Money: Penalty coins that can hinder players.

Reputation Track Board: A double-sided board to track players’ status.

Cardboard Tiles: Representing merchandise with different rewards or penalties.

Player Boards: Individual boards for each player.

Wooden Player Score Tokens: Tokens to mark players’ progress.

How To Setup Mercado

To set up Mercado, lay out the market stalls as panels in the center of the table. Each player receives a bag containing different coins. Place the Head Merchant and Coin Changer market tiles below the board, and set the Privilege tokens nearby. Give each player a seal and stack the starting markers in player order. This setup prepares the game for the players to begin their turns.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Blind Coin Drawing: Players draw three coins from their bag blind on each turn.

Coin Placement: Players place these coins at the market tables of their choice.

Auction Mechanic: Players compete to buy merchandise tiles by placing the necessary coins.

Privilege Tokens: Special tokens can be earned by hiring the Head Merchant or Coin Changer.

Counterfeit Money: Players must manage counterfeit coins that can hinder their progress.

Reputation Points: Buying tiles earns reputation points, moving players along the reputation track.

Game End: The game ends when a player moves completely around the board; the player who moved the farthest wins.

Player Experience

Mercado offers a dynamic and unpredictable gameplay experience, marked by cycles of joy and disappointment. Players must strategically manage their coins to outbid others for valuable items, while also dealing with the risk of counterfeit money. The game is known for its light and friendly pace, making it accessible to a wide range of players, including children. The tiebreaker rule, where the last player to land on an occupied space wins, adds an exciting layer of strategy and surprise victories.

Pros

High Replayability: The game offers a variety of strategic choices, ensuring each playthrough is unique.

Kid-Friendly: Suitable for children aged 10 and above, making it a great family game.

Quick Gameplay: Games typically last about 30 minutes, making it an excellent filler game.

Sturdy Components: The game includes durable components that can withstand frequent use.

Cons

Artwork: The artwork, while thematically appropriate, is not particularly memorable.

Randomness: The blind drawing of coins can introduce a significant element of luck, which may not appeal to all players.

Personal Thoughts on Mercado

Mercado is an excellent choice for those who enjoy lighter, family-friendly board games with a touch of strategy. It is particularly suitable for households with children or for groups looking for a quick, engaging game that does not require a heavy time commitment. While it may not appeal to fans of complex, heavy games, Mercado’s balance of strategy and luck makes it a delightful addition to any game collection.

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