Yokohama
- Designer Hisashi Hayashi
- Publisher OKAZU Brand , Synapses Games , 2Tomatoes Games , BoardM Factory , Cranio Creations
- Illustration The Creation Studio , Adam P. McIver , Ryo Nyamo
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You play a merchant in the growing port city of Yokohama, building shops, expanding sales channels and fulfilling trade contracts from abroad. The game frames the city's shift from fishing village to trade hub and links thematic choices to economic optimization. Common situations include opening stores, collecting the right goods and expanding route networks to increase reputation and profits.
Who Is This Game For?
A hobbyist/enthusiast game aimed at players comfortable with medium‑heavy strategy. Yokohama is for 2–4 players and, at approximately 90 minutes, fits the extended game evening length. Prior experience with Eurogames and multi‑step planning is helpful.
How It Works
Core mechanics include Contracts, Set Collection and Network and Route Building alongside Grid Movement and a Modular Board. Players plan moves on the grid, gather goods to satisfy contracts and pursue end‑game bonuses. Building and connecting routes and collecting matching sets drive your engine and scoring. The game rewards long‑term planning and coordinated action sequencing.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Hisashi Hayashi, Yokohama combines economic gameplay with modular board design and route building. It won the Meeples Choice Award in 2016 (winner) and received multiple nominations such as the International Gamers Award 2017 (nominee). Its mix of Contracts and network mechanics distinguishes it from simpler trade games.
Awards
2017
- 2019 MinD-Spielepreis Complex Game — Nominated
- 2017 Cardboard Republic Tactician Laurel — Nominated
- 2017 Jogo do Ano — Nominated
- 2016 Meeples Choice Award — Winner
Pro
- Strong economic theme tied to the Meiji Yokohama setting
- Blend of Contracts, Set Collection and Network/Route mechanics
- Suitable for 2–4 players with ~90 minute playtime
- Awarded Meeples Choice Award 2016 (winner)
Contra
- First game has teaching overhead due to interlocking mechanics
- ~90 minute playtime can be long for casual groups
Setting & Atmosphäre
The setting is Yokohama at the start of the Meiji era: a port transforming from a fishing village into a modern trade city. The theme emphasizes exports, cultural exchange and urban modernization.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on core set collection goals and gradually expand your network rather than juggling many long‑term plans at once.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No. Yokohama is designed for 2–4 players.
How long does a game really take?
The listed duration is about 90 minutes; teaching and first plays may increase that.
What prior experience do I need?
It's a hobbyist/enthusiast level Eurogame that benefits from experience with multi‑step planning.
How does this compare to similar games?
Yokohama pairs Contracts with Network/Route Building and modular board movement, emphasizing route decisions more than simpler trade games.
Is this suitable for families?
Given the minimum age of 14 and the game's complexity, it's better for families with older or experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The interplay of Contracts, Set Collection and Network and Route Building defines the game's core.
Fazit
Yokohama is a good pick for players who enjoy economic planning and set collection within a Meiji‑era trade theme. Recommended if you like ~90 minute strategic sessions.
