QE
- Designer Gavin Birnbaum
- Publisher BoardGameTables.com , Board Game Rookie , BoardM Factory , Broadway Toys LTD , Lucky Duck Games
- Illustration Anca Gavril
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In QE, you take on the role of a central bank during a financial crisis and bid secretly on large companies to collect victory points. After auctions, bonus points are awarded for sets like nationalization and monopolization. The player who prints the most money loses all points, adding a twist to bidding strategies. The game blends sealed bidding, set collection, and memory in an economic theme.
Who Is This Game For?
QE targets experienced players who enjoy economic simulations with moderate complexity. Its 45-minute playtime fits well into an evening game session. Some familiarity with auction and set collection games is beneficial but not mandatory.
How It Works
The core mechanic is Auction / Bidding with an initial open bid followed by sealed bids from other players. You collect sets of companies from different countries (Set Collection) and use memory to track bids. End Game Bonuses reward players for nationalization, monopolization, and diversification sets. The highest money printer loses all victory points.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Gavin Birnbaum, QE was nominated for several awards in 2019, including Golden Geek Most Innovative Board Game, and received a Spiel des Jahres recommendation in 2023. Its combination of hidden bids and economic theme makes it unique. It belongs to the Kickstarter crowdfunding family.
Awards
2023
2019
- 2019 Board Game Quest Awards Best Game from a Small Publisher — Nominated
- 2019 Board Game Quest Awards Best Party Game — Nominated
- 2019 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Innovative auction mechanics with sealed bids
- Blend of economic theme and set collection
- 45-minute playtime ideal for game nights
- Spiel des Jahres 2023 recommended
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Requires attention to bids and scoring details
- Suitable for ages 8+, but complexity leans to experienced players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The theme is set during a financial crisis involving 'too big to fail' companies from four countries. You act as a central bank bailing out companies without bankrupting your country.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on remembering opponents' bids and strategically collecting sets to maximize bonus points.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, QE supports 3 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Gameplay lasts about 45 minutes, making it suitable for an evening session.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic knowledge of auction and set collection mechanics helps due to moderate complexity.
How does this compare to similar games?
QE stands out by combining sealed bidding with an economic theme and end game bonuses.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 8, it can be played by families, though complexity suits more experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Auction: Sealed Bid and End Game Bonuses adds tactical depth and suspense.
Fazit
QE is a recommended economic game for players who enjoy tactical auctions and set collection. Its 3 to 5 player range and moderate duration offer flexibility, though no solo mode is included.
