Upkeep (2020) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Upkeep is a board game that was released in 2020, designed by Wilfred Dajotoy, Imaginaires, and Janette Ramos. The game falls under the categories of environmental, puzzle, and racing, with cooperative gameplay mechanics. The game is suitable for 1-4 players, with a runtime of 30-60 minutes and an age recommendation of 6 and older.

Game Components of Upkeep

Game board

Player boards

Puzzle pieces

Resource tokens

Season cards

Tool cards

Yard tiles

How To Setup Upkeep

Setting up Upkeep involves preparing the game board, distributing player boards, and shuffling the season and tool cards. Each player chooses a starting yard tile and places it on their player board. The season deck is shuffled and placed within reach of all players. Tool cards are also shuffled and dealt to each player. The game is ready to start once all components are in place and players understand their initial objectives.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Engine Building: Players collect and use tool cards to enhance their abilities.

Puzzle Solving: Players solve puzzles to clear their yard of debris.

Resource Management: Players manage resources to take actions and use tools.

Objective: The goal is to keep your yard clean by clearing debris before the end of autumn. In cooperative mode, players work together to achieve this goal, while in competitive mode, players compete to see who can clear their yard the fastest.

Player Experience

Upkeep offers a engaging and interactive experience, particularly with 2 players, as it speeds up gameplay. The game combines puzzly mechanics with engine building, making it both challenging and rewarding. Players must strategize and manage their resources efficiently to succeed.

Pros

Engaging Puzzle Mechanics: Keeps players actively involved and challenged.

Cooperative and Competitive Options: Offers versatility in gameplay modes.

Short Playtime: Games typically last about an hour, making it a great filler game.

Resource Management: Adds depth to the game by requiring strategic planning.

Cons

Complexity for New Players: Can be overwhelming due to the combination of puzzle-solving and engine building.

Limited Player Count Optimality: Best with 2 players, which might limit its appeal for larger groups.

Personal Thoughts on Upkeep

Upkeep is ideal for players who enjoy puzzle games and engine builders. It’s a great choice for those looking for a game that offers both cooperative and competitive play. The game’s theme of maintaining a clean yard during autumn adds a unique and relatable twist. However, it may not be the best fit for very large groups or players who prefer simpler gameplay mechanics. Overall, Upkeep is a fun and interactive game that challenges players to think strategically and solve puzzles efficiently.

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