Yardmaster (2014) Board Game

Yardmaster is a card game designed by Steven Aramini and published by Crash Games in in 2014. It falls under the categories of card game, print & play, trains, and transportation. The game involves players collecting sets of train cars to build the best trains and earn points. With a runtime of 20 minutes, Yardmaster is suitable for 2 to 5 players aged 8 and above.

Game Components of Yardmaster

5 cargo cards per player

4 railcar cards in the Arrival Yard

Exchange tokens

Various goods and value cards

How To Setup Yardmaster

To set up Yardmaster, each player starts with five cargo cards in hand. Four railcar cards are laid out into the Arrival Yard. Each player receives one exchange token. This token represents one of the railcars and can be used for exchanges during the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Drafting: Players draft cargo cards to build trains.

Set Collection: Players collect sets of railcars with different goods and values.

Hand Management: Players manage their hand to maximize their train’s value.

Objective: The goal is to build trains comprised of railcars of different goods and values, adhering to specific connection restrictions.

Player Experience

Yardmaster is described as an easy-to-learn yet surprisingly deep filler game. It offers a unique blend of strategy and simplicity, making it appealing for both casual and experienced gamers. The game requires players to think strategically about which cards to collect and how to maximize the value of their trains.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to new players.

Deep Strategy: Offers a surprising amount of depth for a filler game.

Quick Games: Games are relatively short, making it a great filler.

Engaging Mechanics: Combines card drafting, set collection, and hand management.

Cons

Limited Player Interaction: Some players might find the interaction between players to be minimal.

Luck of the Draw: The game involves some luck based on the cards drawn.

Simple Theme: The train theme might not be as immersive for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Yardmaster

Yardmaster is ideal for players looking for a quick, strategic game that doesn’t overwhelm with complex rules. It’s a great choice for game nights where you want something light yet engaging. While it may not offer the depth of more complex train games, it provides a fun and challenging experience that is well-suited for both casual and experienced gamers.

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