51st State: Ultimate Edition
51st State: Ultimate Edition at your next game night?
Add 51st State: Ultimate Edition to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Ignacy Trzewiczek
- Publisher Portal Games
- Illustration Mateusz Bielski , Grzegorz Bobrowski , Piotr Foksowicz , M81 Studio
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
In this game, players control one of eight factions trying to build a new state in a post-apocalyptic America. Cards represent locations that can be razed for resources, traded for ongoing income, or built to activate abilities. The gameplay revolves around hand management, multi-use cards, and strategic decisions with lasting impact. It features a solo mode with variants and an advanced Automa opponent.
Who Is This Game For?
51st State: Ultimate Edition targets experienced gamers aged 14 and up who enjoy complex engine-building card games. With an estimated 75-minute playtime, it suits game nights. Beginners should be prepared for intricate mechanics like worker placement and variable player powers.
How It Works
Players use cards in three ways: razing them for immediate resources, making deals to generate ongoing resources, or building them to use special abilities. Hand management governs options while open drafting and multi-use cards add tactical depth. Variable player powers differentiate factions, and worker placement elements manage resources.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Ignacy Trzewiczek, this edition compiles the base game and six expansions into one package. It blends multi-use cards with tableau building in a unique sci-fi world. Although it has no awards, it is notable for its complex solo mode and variable powers.
Pro
- Versatile card usage through multi-use cards
- Variable player powers enable diverse strategies
- Includes solo mode with variants and Automa opponent
- All-in-one package with base game and expansions
Contra
- High complexity challenging for newcomers
- About 75 minutes playtime requiring patience
- Recommended for ages 14 and older
Setting & atmosphere
The game is set in a post-apocalyptic United States called the 51st State, where new powers struggle to establish control after a devastating war. Its science fiction theme focuses on rebuilding civilization.
Tips for beginners
Start by mastering hand management and multi-use cards before exploring advanced strategies.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Yes, it offers a standard solo mode with several variants and an Automa opponent.
How long does a game really take?
Typical playtime is around 75 minutes, varying by player count and experience.
What prior experience do I need?
This is a complex game suitable for experienced players familiar with worker placement and variable player powers.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its combination of multi-use cards and variable player powers in a sci-fi tableau building setting sets it apart.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and minimum age of 14, it is better suited for experienced players than for young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The multi-use cards allowing three different uses per card are the game's standout feature.
Fazit
51st State: Ultimate Edition is recommended for players seeking a strategic, complex card game with diverse choices and solo play. It is especially suited for fans of post-apocalyptic settings and engine builders.
51st State: Ultimate Edition at your next game night?
Add 51st State: Ultimate Edition to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add 51st State: Ultimate Edition to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
