51st State: Das Master-Set

Gameplay is some of the smoothest, mechanically and thematically, that I've seen since getting into the hobby. Theming is top-notch with tons of fantastic artwork. The puzzle-solving in building your engine remains engaging every game thanks to being able to use each card in three different ways. Shuffling in one expansion into the main deck can change the flavor of the gameplay in great ways. Factions change up the way you approach the game every time. Great component quality. I always have fun playing 51st State, even when I'm getting slaughtered. And I haven't even played the paid expansions yet. Bring on the Ultimate Edition!

The post-apocalyptic theme here is well realised and a lot of fun. The engine building is also great and you really do need to keep an eye on what your opponent(s) are doing. Lighter on starting faction asymmetry than its cousin, Imperial Settlers, but 2 card sets in the base game box to keep things fresh is a great touch. Sold on for Ultimate Edition.

This is such a gem! The artwork is gorgeous, the dieselpunk theme really shines through and the strategies are very deep, varied and rewarding. The engine building in this is very addictive. There's a high amount of asymmetry between players, yet the game feels really balanced. The interaction and asymmetry between players leads to some interesting pivots and maneuvers. The replayability is very high, especially with the expansions and the different factions.

The combination of smart game mechanics, enjoyable little engine building and its growing opportunities with increasing playtime due to this brilliant design of multi-purpose game cards, makes this relatively short game a challenging, complex but still captivating puzzle with an additional touch of strategy, concerning the short alternating turns and their timing, especially with its possible interfering player interventions. In short: Always enjoy playing it and willing to introduce to everyone interested into more than just casual family board gaming.

Base Game New Era Winter Scavengers Allies Moloch No Man's Land ----------------------------------------------------------- Three Cities Mini Expansion 6 Promo Cards Border Tiles Promo Arena Tile Texas/Hegemony Factions Mississippi/University Factions Uranopolis Faction ----------------------------------------------------------- Big Box (Ultimate Edition)