Yellowstone (1985) Board Game

Yellowstone is a board game that was released in 1985 by The Avalon Hill Game Co. It is a game that focuses on animals, farming, and racing, and it is designed for 2-4 players. The game has a runtime of 90-120 minutes and is suitable for players aged 8 and above.

Game Components of Yellowstone

46 large printed cardboard animal counters

40 small printed cardboard animal and food counters

One playing board featuring a map and seasonal event charts

Two six-sided dice

One four-page rule book

One pad of scoring worksheets

A Gamer’s guide to Yellowstone book, which includes information on the national park, its animals, and activities like camping and backpacking.

How To Setup Yellowstone

To set up the game, players must first place the food counters on the map board, with the numbers side down, ensuring each hex listed for food has one counter. Any surplus food counters are set aside. Each player then places their herd on the board in their respective winter ranges, identified by distinctive colors and pictures. A single healthy coyote counter is placed in each hex marked as a coyote den. The game commences with the player who rolls the highest dice value.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Action Points: Players roll dice to determine actions and consult seasonal event charts.

Movement: Players move their herd members across the board, adhering to terrain restrictions.

Predator Phase: Players roll dice to determine if predators can move and affect the herds.

Game Objective

The objective is to move your herd from the winter range to the summer range and back, collecting food points while avoiding predators. The game ends after the fall season, and the player with the most surviving herd members wins.

Player Experience

In “Yellowstone,” players take on the roles of herd managers, navigating the challenges of seasonal changes, terrain, and predators. The game requires strategic planning and adaptability as players manage their herds to maximize food points and minimize losses. The inclusion of a guidebook about Yellowstone National Park adds an educational element, enhancing the overall experience.

Pros

Educational Value: Includes a detailed guidebook about Yellowstone National Park and its wildlife.

Strategic Depth: Requires players to manage resources and adapt to changing seasonal conditions.

Replayability: Randomized elements and dice rolls ensure each game is unique.

Cons

Complexity: The game mechanics and setup can be somewhat complex for new players.

Length: The game can be quite long, lasting 90 to 120 minutes.

Outdated: The game’s design and components may feel outdated compared to modern board games.

Personal Thoughts on Yellowstone

“Yellowstone” is a game best suited for those who enjoy strategic planning and are interested in wildlife and national parks. While it may not appeal to fans of fast-paced or highly interactive games, it offers a unique blend of strategy and education that can be rewarding for the right audience. However, its complexity and length might make it less accessible to casual gamers or families with younger children.

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