TOP Kitchen (2017) Board Game

TOP Kitchen is a board game released in 2017 that is designed by Agata Fiszer and Mariusz Milewski. It falls under the category of dice and economic games, with gameplay mechanics such as auction/bidding, dice rolling, and hand management. The game is designed for 2 to 4 players, with a runtime of 45 to 70 minutes, and is suitable for players aged 10 and above.

Game Components of Kitchen Rush

Boards: 1 main board, 4 player mats, 1 prestige track mat

Cards: 60 Orders, 24 Events, 8 Prestige Bonuses, 10 Objectives, 4 Office Upgrades

Tokens: Custom-shaped food tokens (meat, vegetable, bread, salad, pasta, cheese), spices cubes, plates tokens, coins tokens, “locked” tokens, “malfunction” tokens, “unavailable” tokens

Other components: 10 hourglasses in 5 colors, 1 cloth bag

Rulebook: 1 Rulebook in English.

How To Setup Kitchen Rush

To set up the game, each player receives a player mat. The main board is placed in the middle, and the prestige track mat is set up alongside. Players start with a set of basic resources and tokens. Orders, events, and other cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. Each player chooses an hourglass of a unique color to use as their worker. The game is ready to start once all components are distributed and the first round’s orders are drawn.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Real-time worker placement: Players use hourglasses as workers, assigning them to various tasks such as taking orders, cooking dishes, and buying groceries.

Time management: Each worker placed on an action space cannot be used elsewhere until the sand in the hourglass runs out.

Cooperative gameplay: 1-4 players work together to fulfill orders within a 4-minute time frame per round.

Objective: Earn enough money across 4 rounds to keep the business running and achieve the highest prestige score possible.

Player Experience

Kitchen Rush simulates the high-pressure environment of a kitchen, where players must work efficiently and communicate effectively to succeed. The game is fast-paced and exciting, requiring strategic planning and quick decision-making. Players must manage their time carefully, as the real-time mechanism adds an element of urgency and stress, making the game both challenging and enjoyable.

Pros

Innovative real-time mechanism: Adds a unique twist to the traditional worker placement genre.

High replayability: Different orders and events each game ensure varied experiences.

Cooperative gameplay: Encourages teamwork and communication.

Engaging theme: Simulates the excitement of a real kitchen environment.

Cons

Learning curve: New players may find the real-time aspect overwhelming.

Potential for rule mistakes: Less experienced players may accidentally cheat due to the need for self-enforcement of rules.

Time pressure: Can be stressful, especially for those who prefer more relaxed gaming experiences.

Personal Thoughts on Kitchen Rush

Kitchen Rush is ideal for players who enjoy real-time games and cooperative challenges. It is suitable for families and gamers alike, providing a fun and dynamic experience. The game is particularly great for those who appreciate the thrill of time management and the satisfaction of working together as a team to achieve a common goal. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking a more relaxed or solo gaming experience.

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.