Kanban: Driver's Edition
- Designer Vital Lacerda
- Publisher Stronghold Games , Giochix.it , Maldito Games , Schwerkraft-Verlag , Sherlock S.A.
- Illustration Naomi Robinson , William Bricker , Vital Lacerda
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You play as an ambitious manager in an automotive assembly line, managing suppliers, improving parts, and selecting projects to maximize efficiency and climb the corporate ladder. The game features worker placement, action points, and variable phase order, reflecting the production workflow. Strategic planning and timing are key to impressing the board and advancing your career.
Who Is This Game For?
Kanban is a complex strategy game suited for experienced players aged 12 and up. With a playing time of about 120 minutes, it appeals to those who enjoy deep economic mechanics and worker placement. Beginners should be prepared for a steep learning curve and some familiarity with similar games is helpful.
How It Works
Players spend action points to place workers on spaces that acquire materials, start projects, or optimize production. The variable phase order changes the sequence of play, adding variety. Commodity speculation involves managing scarce resources from suppliers. Efficient resource and time management are crucial to outperform competitors and rise in the company.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Vital Lacerda, Kanban was nominated for multiple 2014 Golden Geek awards. It belongs to the Kanban series and Stronghold Games' The Great Designers collection. A unique feature is the non-player factory manager with two modes ('nice' or 'mean') that influences gameplay dynamics.
Awards
2014
- 2015 Goblin Magnifico — Nominated
- 2014 Jocul Anului în România Advanced — Finalist
- 2014 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
- 2014 The Golden Elephant Award — Finalist
Pro
- Complex economic mechanics with realistic industrial theme
- Variable phase order adds gameplay variety
- Player interaction through competition for resources and promotions
- Integrated non-player factory manager with two modes
Contra
- High complexity requires longer learning time
- Playing time around 120 minutes demands patience
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in an automotive factory using just-in-time production via a Kanban system, players manage the assembly line aiming to advance their careers through efficient factory control.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on efficient use of action points and careful planning of projects to manage resources effectively.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Kanban: Driver's Edition supports 2 to 4 players and has no solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The game lasts about 120 minutes, suitable for an extended gaming session.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex strategy and worker placement games is helpful for learning.
How does this compare to similar games?
The variable phase order and the non-player factory manager with two modes make Kanban unique in the industry genre.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players aged 12 and up rather than families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of worker placement, action points, and commodity speculation within a variable phase order is central.
Fazit
Kanban: Driver's Edition is recommended for players who enjoy complex economic and worker placement games and can invest about two hours in strategic planning. Casual players might find it too demanding.
