Thurn and Taxis (2006) Board Game

Thurn and Taxis is a board game that was released in in 2006. It is set in the post-Napoleonic era and focuses on the transportation system developed by the Thurn and Taxis family in Germany. The game designers, Andreas and Karen Seyfarth, aimed to create a game that incorporated elements of hand management, network and route building, open drafting, and set collection.

Game Components of Thurn and Taxis

Game board

170 cards

Wooden carriage pieces

Player markers

Rulebook

How To Setup Thurn and Taxis

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Shuffle the cards and deal each player a starting hand.

Place the wooden carriage pieces and player markers nearby.

Determine the starting player.

Follow the setup instructions in the rulebook for specific details.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Players take on the role of postal carriers, trying to establish postal routes and expand their network. The objective is to score points by connecting cities and delivering mail. Players must strategically manage their hand of cards to build efficient routes and collect valuable bonuses.

Player Experience

Pros

Engaging mix of hand management and route building mechanics.

Strategic depth with multiple paths to victory.

Historical theme adds immersion and educational value.

Cons

Can be overwhelming for new players.

Limited player interaction may not appeal to all gamers.

Game length may feel repetitive after multiple plays.

Personal Thoughts on Thurn and Taxis

Thurn and Taxis is a well-designed game that offers a unique blend of mechanics in a historical setting. The components are of good quality, and the artwork by Michael Menzel enhances the theme. However, the game may not be suitable for casual gamers due to its complexity. The pricing and availability of both used and new copies can vary, so it’s worth researching before purchasing. For those interested in strategic games with a historical twist, Thurn and Taxis is definitely worth your time. However, players who prefer more interactive or fast-paced games may want to skip this one. Alternatives like Ticket to Ride or Concordia offer similar gameplay experiences for those looking for something different.

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