New Angeles (2016) Board Game

New Angeles is a board game designed by James Kniffen and published by Fantasy Flight Games in in 2016. It is set in the Android universe, a dystopian cyberpunk world where megacorporations rule over the city. Players take on the roles of these powerful corporations, competing for control and influence in the city of New Angeles.

Game Components of New Angeles

Lavishly illustrated board

Twenty-four plastic miniatures

More than 160 cards

Various assets and credits

How To Setup New Angeles

To set up the game, each player takes on the role of a CEO of a powerful megacorporation in New Angeles. The board is arranged to represent the city, and each player starts with a set of initial assets and credits. Players draw starting cards and place their miniatures on the board. The goal is to balance individual corporate goals with the need to maintain order in the city.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Semi-cooperative, economic, and negotiation game

Mechanics: Card drafting, area control, voting, and negotiation

Objective: Accumulate capital and influence while avoiding unrest and governmental intervention. Each player has secret win conditions that add a layer of rivalry.

Key Actions: Propose and vote on ideas to address city problems, forge temporary alliances, and leverage credits and assets.

Player Experience

In **New Angeles**, players engage in intense negotiations and deal-making to advance their corporate interests. The game is marked by a dynamic of cooperation and competition, as players must work together to keep the city stable while also pursuing their own agendas. This creates a unique and engaging atmosphere, reminiscent of the cutthroat world of corporate executives.

Pros

High Replayability: Each playthrough is different due to player interactions and negotiations.

Deep Strategy: Combines economic management with social negotiation.

Immersive Theme: Set in the Android universe, it offers a rich cyberpunk backdrop.

No Randomness Beyond Card Draws: The game relies heavily on player communication and strategy.

Cons

Long Gameplay: Games often last more than five hours.

Steep Learning Curve: The game has complex rules and mechanics that require time to master.

Limited Appeal: The game’s complexity and length may limit its appeal to a niche audience.

Personal Thoughts on New Angeles

**New Angeles** is ideal for experienced board game enthusiasts who enjoy complex, strategic games with a strong social interaction component. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate negotiation and deal-making mechanics, as well as fans of the Android universe. However, due to its lengthy gameplay and substantial learning curve, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those new to board games. If you gather the right group of players, **New Angeles** can be a highly rewarding and engaging experience.

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