Pioneer Days (2017) Board Game

Pioneer Days is a board game that was released in 2017 by Tasty Minstrel Games. It is designed by Matthew Dunstan and Chris Marling, with artwork by Guille Longhini and Sergi Marcet. The game is set in the American West during the 19th century, where players take on the role of pioneers trying to build their own towns and develop them into thriving communities.

Game Components of Pioneer Days

Pioneer Days game board

5 dice

4 player boards

52 cards

Wooden cubes and tokens

How To Setup Pioneer Days

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Give each player a player board.

Shuffle the cards and place them face down.

Roll the dice to determine the starting resources.

Place the wooden cubes and tokens in a supply area.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Pioneer Days, players will be rolling dice, drafting dice, and using the results to build their towns, acquire goods, hire workers, and fend off disasters. The game is played over a series of rounds, with each round consisting of dice drafting and action selection. The objective of the game is to earn the most victory points by the end of the game, which is achieved through various actions and bonuses.

Player Experience

Pros:

Engaging dice drafting mechanic

Strategic decision-making

Variable player powers add depth to gameplay

Cons:

Luck factor with dice rolls

Can be overwhelming for new players

Personal Thoughts on Pioneer Days

Pioneer Days is a well-designed game that offers a good mix of strategy and luck. The dice drafting mechanic keeps the gameplay dynamic and engaging, while the variable player powers add a layer of complexity. The game’s theme and artwork are well-executed, immersing players in the American West setting. However, the luck factor with dice rolls can sometimes lead to frustration, especially for players who prefer more control over their actions. Overall, Pioneer Days is a solid choice for fans of dice rolling and town-building games, but may not be suitable for those who dislike luck-based mechanics.

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