Fujian Trader
- Designer Robert Batchelor , Sari Gilbert
- Publisher Thinking Past
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players take on the roles of merchant families navigating trading routes in the East China Sea during the Ming era. The board features six colored regions with ports producing goods like iron, silk, and rice based on dice rolls. Players control ports, build trading networks, and engage in trading or raiding goods for silver and influence to gain victory points. The game ends after the Manchu invasion event triggers, with players tallying points to determine the winner.
Who Is This Game For?
Fujian Trader targets experienced gamers aged 12 and up who enjoy complex economic and area control games. With a playtime of about three hours, it demands strategic planning and patience. It lacks a solo mode and may be challenging for newcomers.
How It Works
The game centers on Area Majority / Influence, Network and Route Building, and Trading mechanics. Players start with control of certain ports that produce goods depending on dice rolls. Using silver earned from trading, they can acquire more ports or incite rebellions to take over opponents’ ports. Victory points come from controlling ports and successfully trading goods before the Manchu invasion ends the game.
What Makes It Special
Fujian Trader is based on the historical Selden Map, depicting Ming-era Chinese trade routes. Designed by Robert Batchelor and Sari Gilbert, it uniquely combines area majority, trade, and event-driven gameplay without known awards, highlighting its niche appeal and historical theme.
Pro
- Historical theme based on a real trade map
- Combination of area majority, trading, and network building
- Extended playtime allows for strategic depth
- Designed for 3-5 players, encouraging interaction
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Long playtime of approximately 180 minutes
- Complex rules requiring experience and focus
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in Ming Dynasty China around the East China Sea, reflecting historical trade routes and the forthcoming Manchu invasion.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start by focusing on a few ports and gradually expand your trade network to better manage the game's complexity.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Fujian Trader is designed for 3 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 180 minutes, including trade and conflict phases.
What prior experience do I need?
This is an expert-level game with complex trading and area control mechanics, suitable for players aged 12 and up.
How does this compare to similar games?
Fujian Trader stands out through its historical basis on the Selden Map and the integration of area majority, trade, and event cards.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it's better suited for experienced players rather than families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The game features a blend of Area Majority / Influence, Network and Route Building, and Trading mechanics.
Fazit
Recommended for players interested in deep economic strategy and historical themes. Fujian Trader offers a rich experience for those who appreciate complex trading and area control games.
