Rollway Station (2020) Board Game

Rollway Station is a print-and-play solo board game designed by Kendall McKenzie and released in in 2020. The game is known for its unique mechanics involving dice rolling, hexagon grid, paper-and-pencil, push your luck, and solo gameplay.

Game Components of Rollway Station

Maps: Three different maps with varying starting layouts and special advanced rules.

Dice: Five dice used for assigning actions.

Game Cards: For buying shares, auctioning trains, and other game actions.

Share Certificates: Representing ownership in train companies.

How To Setup Rollway Station

To set up Rollway Station, players select one of the three available maps, each with its unique starting layout and rules. The game components, including the dice, game cards, and share certificates, are then distributed accordingly. Players should familiarize themselves with the specific advanced rules associated with the chosen map.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Duration: The game is played over fifteen turns.

Dice Rolling: Players roll five dice and assign them to three different actions:
– Buying shares in train companies.
– Auctioning trains.
– Other game-relevant actions.

Objective: The goal is to earn the most money possible by strategically investing in and managing train companies.

Player Experience

In Rollway Station, players immerse themselves in a competitive environment where strategic decision-making is crucial. Each turn, players must optimize their dice rolls to maximize their financial gains. The game offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, particularly for fans of economic and train-themed games.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game offers complex decision-making opportunities, making it appealing to strategy enthusiasts.

Variety: Three different maps with unique rules provide replayability and diversity.

Thematic Engagement: The 18xx series inspiration adds a rich thematic layer to the game.

Cons

Complexity: The game may be overwhelming for new players due to its intricate rules and mechanics.

Luck Element: Dice rolling introduces an element of luck, which might not appeal to all players.

Learning Curve: The game requires a significant amount of time to learn and master.

Personal Thoughts on Rollway Station

Rollway Station is ideal for experienced board game players who enjoy economic and strategic games. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate the complexity and thematic depth of the 18xx series. However, it may not be the best choice for casual or new players due to its steep learning curve and complex mechanics. If you are looking for a game that challenges your strategic thinking and offers a rich, immersive experience, Rollway Station could be an excellent addition to your board game collection.

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