Planes (2014) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Planes is a board game released in 2014, designed by Banu Andaru. It falls under the category of aviation/flight and transportation games, allowing players to experience the thrill of managing their own airline. With a runtime of 30 minutes and suitable for players aged 14 and above, this game is a perfect blend of strategy and fun.

Game Components of Planes

Game board

Plane tokens

Destination cards

Action cards

Currency tokens

Player markers

Rulebook

How To Setup Planes

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Shuffle the destination cards and place them face down near the board.

Each player chooses a color and takes the corresponding plane tokens, currency tokens, and player marker.

Shuffle the action cards and deal a hand to each player.

Place the remaining action cards within reach of all players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Planes, players take on the role of airline managers, competing to create the most successful airline. By strategically managing their resources, players must maximize profits by flying passengers to their destinations efficiently. The game involves hand management, mancala, multi-use cards, pattern building, and point-to-point movement mechanics. The objective is to accumulate the most points by the end of the game through successful flight operations.

Player Experience

Pros:

Strategic depth with multiple gameplay mechanics.

Engaging gameplay that keeps players on their toes.

Easy to learn but offers a lot of replay value.

Beautiful artwork and components add to the overall experience.

Cons:

Can be overwhelming for new players initially.

Luck plays a role in the game, which may not appeal to everyone.

Limited player interaction may not suit those looking for a highly competitive experience.

Personal Thoughts on Planes

Planes is a well-designed board game that offers a unique and enjoyable experience for players interested in aviation and strategy. The combination of different mechanics adds depth to the gameplay, making each session engaging and challenging. The build quality of the components is top-notch, and the artwork adds to the overall immersion in the theme.

In terms of pricing and availability, Planes can be found both new and used, with prices varying depending on the condition of the game. For fans of aviation-themed games or those looking for a strategic challenge, Planes is worth considering. However, for players who prefer more player interaction or dislike luck-based elements, this game may not be the best fit.

Overall, Planes is a solid choice for those looking for a strategic board game with a unique theme and engaging gameplay. It offers a good balance of complexity and accessibility, making it suitable for a wide range of players.

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