Sailblazer (2018) Board Game

Sailblazer is a board game released in 2018 by Korea Boardgames. It is set in a world of adventure, exploration, nautical themes, and pirates. The game is designed for 2-4 players, with a runtime of approximately 60 minutes. Players take on the roles of sailors navigating the high seas, building networks and routes, and using variable player powers to outmaneuver their opponents.

Game Components of Sailblazer

Player boards

Ship tokens

Ocean tiles

Log cards

Pirate cards

Reward cards

Prestige tokens

Fish tokens

Sailor tokens

Cannon dice

Captain’s Die

Rum tokens

Treasure Map

Storeroom space tokens

Final Achievement tiles

How To Setup Sailblazer

Setup begins with placing the Saffron Island tile in the center of the table. Players organize the other tiles into three stages, removing specific tiles for two-player games. Each stage includes its own set of tiles, pirate cards, and log cards, which are shuffled and set out face-down. Five Reward Cards are revealed for the current phase. Each player receives a player board and places their ship token on Saffron Island.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement Phase: Players can choose to explore new waters, sail to adjacent tiles, or stay in place.

Explore: Move to uncharted waters, pay the cost in fish, draw a new tile, gain 1 EXP, and move the ship onto the tile.

Sail: Move to any adjacent ocean tile already revealed, using fish or sailors to extend the move.

Stay: Remain in the current location.

Action Phase: If no pirate is present, players can explore, sell and buy trading goods, resupply, work at port, or fish.

Pirate Encounters: Engage in combat using the Captain’s Die and cannon dice, with sailors and rum providing additional strength.

EXP and Rewards: Gain EXP to unlock sailors, coins, or additional EXP. Reach 10 EXP to level up and unlock more significant rewards like treasure maps or cannon dice.

End of Stage and Game: The game progresses through three stages. Each stage ends when a tile with an End Stage icon is revealed. The game concludes when a Final Achievement tile is revealed, and players calculate their score based on prestige tokens, pirate card points, and EXP levels.

Player Experience

In **Sailblazer**, players embark on a journey of exploration, trade, and combat, aiming to accumulate the most prestige points by the end of the game. The game offers a balance of strategic planning and luck, as players navigate through the high seas, manage resources, and fend off pirates. The experience is engaging and competitive, especially with the dynamic tile-laying mechanism that changes the game board each playthrough.

Pros

Dynamic Gameplay: Each game offers a unique map and challenges due to the tile-laying mechanism.

Balanced Mechanics: Combines exploration, resource management, and combat for a well-rounded experience.

Progression System: Gaining EXP and leveling up provides a sense of progression and achievement.

Competitive: Suitable for 2-4 players, promoting healthy competition among captains.

Cons

Complex Setup: The initial setup can be somewhat intricate, especially for new players.

Luck Factor: The draw of tiles and cards introduces an element of luck that may not appeal to all players.

Playtime: The game can take up to 60 minutes, which may be too long for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Sailblazer

**Sailblazer** is ideal for players who enjoy strategic planning, resource management, and a touch of luck in their games. It is particularly suited for those fascinated by maritime adventures and the Golden Age of Piracy. The game’s complexity and playtime make it more appealing to experienced players or those willing to invest time in learning the mechanics. However, its engaging gameplay and competitive nature ensure that it remains a rewarding experience for players who enjoy navigating the high seas.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.