51st State
- Designer Ignacy Trzewiczek
- Publisher Portal Games , Edge Entertainment , IELLO , Toy Vault, Inc.
- Illustration Mateusz Bielski , Piotr Foksowicz , Mariusz Gandzel , Daniel Grzeszkiewicz , Roch Hercka , Tomasz Jedruszek
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 51st State, players control one of four factions trying to build a new nation in a ruined world. You play locations, hire leaders, and assign workers to gather resources and skills. Each card can be used in three ways, offering strategic depth and meaningful choices. The game emphasizes tableau building and resource management in a thematic post-apocalyptic setting.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players who enjoy complex card games with strategic depth. With a playing time of about 90 minutes, it suits those willing to engage in longer, thoughtful sessions. It is not a family game but a strategy-oriented game requiring familiarity with hand management and variable player powers.
How It Works
Players draft and play cards into their tableau using hand management and open drafting mechanics. Variable player powers give each faction unique abilities shaping player strategy. Cards can represent locations to invade, contracts to sign, or skills to attach, each generating resources or actions in different ways.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Ignacy Trzewiczek, 51st State was nominated in 2011 for Golden Geek Best Card Game and JoTa Best Card Game. Its blend of tableau building, variable player powers, and the Neuroshima post-apocalyptic theme set it apart from other card games.
Awards
2011
- 2011 JoTa Best Card Game — Nominated
Pro
- Multiple strategic options with three ways to play each card
- Variable player powers increase replayability and depth
- Strong post-apocalyptic theme with immersive world-building
- 2011 Golden Geek Best Card Game nominee
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Approximately 90 minutes can be lengthy for casual players
- Requires experience with medium complexity strategy games
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the United States has collapsed. New powers compete to create a new country—the 51st State—within the Neuroshima universe.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding the three uses for each card before developing complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
51st State requires at least two players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes with minimal setup time.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with hand management and variable player powers in medium complexity games is beneficial.
How does this compare to similar games?
51st State combines tableau building, open drafting, and variable player powers in a unique post-apocalyptic setting.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 10 and medium complexity, it is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of hand management, open drafting, and variable player powers defines its gameplay.
Fazit
51st State is a strong recommendation for players who enjoy strategic hand management and engine building in a thematic post-apocalyptic world, suited for longer game sessions.
