Pax Porfiriana
- Designer Matt Eklund , Phil Eklund , Jim Gutt
- Publisher Sierra Madre Games , Ediciones MasQueOca , Ion Game Design
- Illustration Phil Eklund
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players act as wealthy businessmen in pre-revolutionary Mexico, building empires of ranches, mines, rails, troops, and banks. Each turn involves playing cards, drafting from the market, buying land, and collecting income while managing political upheaval. The form of government changes gameplay dynamics and victory conditions.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced gamers and experts aged 12 and up who enjoy complex economic and political simulations. With about 120 minutes playtime, it requires patience and strategic planning. Prior experience with hand management or tableau building mechanics is beneficial but not mandatory.
How It Works
Each turn, players perform three actions such as playing cards, acquiring new cards from an open drafting market, or buying land. Income is collected based on assets, but players may pay during depressions. The game ends when the government is toppled or Díaz remains in power, with the richest player winning. Core mechanics include Action Points, Hand Management, Income, and Finale Ending.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Matt Eklund, Phil Eklund, and Jim Gutt, Pax Porfiriana offers a complex thematic card game about the Mexican Revolution. It was nominated for the Meeples Choice Award in 2012 and several Golden Geek Awards in 2013, including Best Card Game. Its blend of Action Points, Tableau Building, and Open Drafting sets it apart.
Awards
2013
- 2012 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Deep historical economic simulation
- High variability with market-based card selection
- Includes solo mode for single players
- Complex interaction through Action Points and Hand Management
Contra
- Relatively long playtime of about 120 minutes
- High complexity, not suited for casual gamers
- Recommended for ages 12 and up but better for experienced players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in Mexico during Porfirio Díaz's 33-year dictatorship before the 1910 revolution, the game explores political and economic power struggles on the U.S.-Mexico borderlands.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on mastering core mechanics like hand management and action usage before diving into deeper strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Pax Porfiriana includes a solo mode as it supports one player.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts around 120 minutes, making it an extended gaming session.
What prior experience do I need?
It is suited for experienced gamers; familiarity with hand management and strategic planning is helpful.
How does this compare to similar games?
Pax Porfiriana uniquely combines Action Points, Open Drafting, and Tableau Building in a historical economic setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players aged 12 and up rather than casual family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Action Points, Hand Management, and Open Drafting creates deep tactical choices.
Fazit
Pax Porfiriana is a rewarding choice for players seeking deep historical strategy games with complex interactions. Its longer playtime and complexity require patience and focus.
