Kanban EV

1-4

Players

180

Minutes

14+

Age

2020

Published

Designer Vital Lacerda
Publisher Eagle-Gryphon Games , Arclight Games , Delta Vision Publishing , Editions Philibert , Geekach LLC
Illustration Ian O'Toole

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What to Expect

You play as a factory employee managing suppliers, production lines and part improvements to earn Production Points. The game focuses on resource and time management, using recycling facilities and handling supply shortages while the factory manager enforces a production tempo. Over the course of the game you chase factory goals and promotions; a solo mode is included according to the publisher.

Who Is This Game For?

Aimed at experienced euro gamers and strategy fans who enjoy complex economic systems. Suitable from age 14 and with a typical playtime around 180 minutes, it requires commitment and prior experience with heavier games.

How It Works

Players perform actions using Action Points, manage hands of options (Hand Management) and place workers on the factory floor (Worker Placement). Variable Phase Order creates dynamic round sequencing and makes timing important. The core loop revolves around optimizing production, handling suppliers and scoring Production Points.

Action Points Hand Management Variable Phase Order Worker Placement

What Makes It Special

Designed by Vital Lacerda, Kanban EV applies the kanban scheduling concept to an automotive EV production theme. It received several 2020 nominations (e.g., Golden Geek Artwork & Presentation, Board Game Quest Awards Best Strategy/Euro Game) and was a 2021 Kanga Best Gameplay finalist.

Awards

Nominated
2020

2021 Kanga Best Gameplay — Finalist
2020 5 Seasons Best Portuguese Expansion — Nominated
2020 5 Seasons Best Solo Mode — Nominated
2020 Board Game Quest Awards Best Strategy/Euro Game — Nominated

Pro

Strong production/economic theme centered on EV manufacturing
Combination of Worker Placement, Action Points and Hand Management
Included solo mode per publisher
Multiple 2020–2021 nominations and finalist placements

Contra

Long playtime (~180 minutes) requires a full game session
High complexity with a learning curve
Not ideal for casual players or younger children (14+)

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in a modern electric vehicle manufacturing plant, the game emphasizes just-in-time production principles (kanban), software upgrades and industrial workflows.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus first on understanding the main action types (Worker Placement, Action Points) and how phase order affects timing; try the solo mode to learn mechanics at your own pace.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Yes. The publisher’s description states that a solo mode by Dávid Turczi is included.

How long does a game really take?

Duration is listed as about 180 minutes; expect additional time for setup and rule explanation.

What prior experience do I need?

Prior experience with heavier euros, Worker Placement or Action-Point systems is helpful.

How does this compare to similar games?

Kanban EV applies kanban/production mechanics to an automotive EV theme, emphasizing time and resource management compared to other euro production games.

Is this suitable for families?

Due to complexity and the 14+ age recommendation, it’s better for experienced family members rather than casual family play.

What mechanic makes it special?

The mix of Worker Placement, Action Points, Hand Management and Variable Phase Order defines its distinct gameplay.

Fazit

Kanban EV is a deep, theme-heavy euro for players who enjoy intricate production puzzles and long sessions. If you prefer short, lighter games, look elsewhere; for dedicated euro players it’s a strong pick.