Mississippi
- Designer Roland Siegers
- Publisher Mattel, Inc.
- Illustration Dietmar Keidel
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players control boats on a winding S-shaped hex track representing the Mississippi River. Using dice and logs, you move your boat forward or backward. When boats land adjacent to each other, a bump mechanic based on the difference of hex-side numbers causes boats to push each other forward. You can also rotate your boat to change its facing number, affecting movement options. The goal is to be the first to reach the finish line.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for 2 to 6 players aged 10 and up, Mississippi is a medium complexity game lasting about 60 minutes. It suits players who enjoy abstract racing games with tactical dice elements and prefer manageable rules. Prior experience with abstract strategy games is helpful but not required.
How It Works
Each player has a hexagonal boat piece with numbers on its six sides. Boats move along an S-shaped hex track by spending logs to move forward or moving backward to gain logs. Players can rotate their boats by 60 degrees to change the front-facing number, influencing movement. When boats end adjacent to others, the bump mechanic compares facing numbers to determine forward shifts. The first boat to cross the finish wins.
What Makes It Special
Mississippi was recommended for the Spiel des Jahres in 1988. Roland Siegers' design combines abstract racing with a unique bumping system driven by hex-side number differences and dice rolling. It belongs to the Rivers: Mississippi family and stands out with its integration of hex orientation and log-based movement.
Awards
1988
Pro
- Intuitive bump mechanic with tactical depth
- About 60 minutes playtime suitable for game nights
- Supports 2 to 6 players for flexible group sizes
- Recommended Spiel des Jahres 1988
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Abstract theme may not appeal to thematic players
- Requires tactical thinking and patience during bump chains
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates a race of paddle steamers on the Mississippi River. The theme is abstract but clearly nautical, evoking the river racing atmosphere.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the bump mechanic and boat orientation to plan your moves effectively.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Mississippi is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts around 60 minutes, suitable for a regular game night.
What prior experience do I need?
It is a medium complexity game for players aged 10 and up who enjoy abstract racing with dice.
How does this compare to similar games?
Mississippi uniquely combines abstract racing with a bump system based on hex-side number differences.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 10 and moderate complexity, it suits families with older children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The bump mechanic combined with boat rotation and dice rolling is the standout feature.
Fazit
Mississippi offers tactical racing with simple rules and an engaging bump mechanic. It is recommended for players who appreciate abstract dice-driven strategy games and a game length of about one hour.
