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Tinners' Trail GOLDEN GEEK NOMINIERT 2009 INTERNATIONAL GAMERS AWARD NOMINIERT 2008

Tinners' Trail

3-4
Players
90
Minutes
13+
Age
2008
Published

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What to Expect

Players mine copper and tin in Cornwall, aiming to sell when prices are high. By building developments like ports and trains, you reduce mining costs. Earnings are invested in industries outside Cornwall for victory points, with earlier investments yielding better returns. The game features dice rolling, action points, and a time track to determine turn order.

Who Is This Game For?

Tinners' Trail targets experienced players aged 13 and up who enjoy economic strategy games with tactical depth. The 90-minute playtime fits well for 3 to 4 players at a game night. No solo mode is available, requiring multiple participants.

How It Works

Each round, players spend action points to mine resources, build developments, or participate in auctions. Dice rolls influence the success of certain actions. The time track determines turn order, adding strategic timing decisions. Investing wisely in industries outside Cornwall maximizes victory points at game's end.

Action Points Auction / Bidding Dice Rolling Turn Order: Time Track

What Makes It Special

Designed by Martin Wallace, Tinners' Trail stands out by combining action points, dice rolling, and a time track mechanic. It was nominated for the 2008 International Gamers Awards and won the 2011 Ludoteca Ideale Official Selection. Its Cornwall mining theme distinguishes it among economic strategy games.

Awards

GOLDEN GEEK NOMINIERT 2009
Nominated
2009
INTERNATIONAL GAMERS AWARD NOMINIERT 2008
Nominated
2008
  • 2011 Ludoteca Ideale Official Selection — Winner
  • 2010 Juego del Año — Finalist
  • 2008 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated

Pro

  • Effective blend of action points, dice rolling, and time track
  • Historic mining theme in Cornwall
  • Multiple award nominations including International Gamers Awards 2008
  • Strategic depth with a 90-minute playtime

Contra

  • Only for 3-4 players, no solo mode
  • Requires learning due to complex mechanics
  • Suitable for ages 13+, less family friendly

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in 19th century Cornwall, England, the game centers on copper and tin mining within an industrial economic environment.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus first on understanding action points and the time track before exploring advanced strategies.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Tinners' Trail requires at least three players and has no solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

Approximately 90 minutes plus setup time.

What prior experience do I need?

The game is an expert-level economic strategy requiring strategic planning and understanding of complex mechanics.

How does this compare to similar games?

Its unique mix of action points, dice rolling, and a time track mechanic sets it apart.

Is this suitable for families?

Due to complexity and age limit of 13+, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families with young children.

What mechanic makes it special?

The combination of action points, dice rolling, and turn order via a time track defines its core mechanic.

Fazit

Tinners' Trail is recommended for gamers who appreciate economic strategy with tactical and chance elements. It's less suited for families or casual players.