Yedo (2012) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Yedo is a board game published in 2012 by eggertspiele. Designed by Franz Vohwinkel, the game is set in medieval Japan and incorporates a variety of gameplay mechanics such as action queue, auction/bidding, hand management, map deformation, set collection, and worker placement. The game challenges players to strategize and outmaneuver their opponents to become the most influential clan in the city of Edo.

Game Components of Yedo

Workers (agents): Each player starts with 2 agents.

Mon: The game’s currency, with players beginning with 12 Mon.

Missions: Players start with 4 mission cards and can acquire more during the game.

Action cards: Include bonus cards, discounted weapons, annexes, geisha, and new agents.

Event cards: Can include “Samurai” cards that introduce challenges.

Game board: Representing the city of Yedo (Edo, later Tokyo).

How To Setup Yedo

To set up Yedo, each player selects a clan and receives the initial 2 workers, 12 Mon, and 4 mission cards. The game board is placed in the middle of the playing area, and the various resource decks are shuffled and set aside. Players decide on the game length at the beginning, which determines the number of rounds.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Worker placement: Players send their agents to different districts on the board.

Auction system: Players bid on resources such as action cards, bonus cards, and missions at the start of each round.

Event resolution: Players resolve events that can affect gameplay.

Watch patrol: A mechanism where a patrol can arrest agents in certain districts.

Game Objective

Complete missions by gathering necessary resources and positioning agents correctly.

Manage resources efficiently through auctions and worker placement.

Player Experience

Yedo offers a challenging and dynamic experience, distinct from typical Eurogames. The game is marked by its strong theme, which is deeply integrated into the mechanics. Players must navigate through the city, managing resources and avoiding the watch patrol to complete missions. The game includes narrative elements through mission cards, adding a layer of storytelling.

Pros

Unique blend of mechanics: Combines auctions, worker placement, and event management.

Strong theme: Deeply rooted in the historical context of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Challenging gameplay: Includes unpredictable events and a watch patrol that adds complexity.

Narrative elements: Mission cards provide flavor text and context.

Cons

Rule clarity issue: The mission completion rules could be clearer.

Expensive second edition: The deluxe second edition is exclusively available through Kickstarter and is costly.

Not for beginners: The game’s complexity and challenging nature may not be suitable for new players.

Personal Thoughts on Yedo

Yedo is ideal for experienced board game enthusiasts who enjoy complex, strategic gameplay and are fond of historical themes. It is not a relaxing puzzle game but rather a challenging experience that requires careful planning and resource management. If you’re looking for a game that combines worker placement with auctions and strong thematic elements, Yedo is a compelling choice. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking a more casual or introductory board game experience.

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