Objective of the Game
Roads & Boats is a strategic board game where players must build their own transportation systems to efficiently manage resources and establish various production chains. The main objective is to score points by transporting resources and developing technologies. The player with the most points at the end of the game wins.
Game Components
- Game board in the form of hex tiles
- Building and vehicle tiles
- Various resources like wood, stone, iron, gold, etc.
- Means of transportation like donkeys, boats, and trucks
- Player overviews and production plans
Setup
- Prepare the Board: The game board is constructed from a variety of hex tiles, which can be arranged in several ways to create different landscapes.
- Choose Starting Locations: Each player chooses a starting location on the board to set up their pioneer settlement.
- Distribute Starting Resources: Each player receives starting equipment, including a donkey and some basic resources.
- Buildings and Transport: The remaining building and vehicle tiles are placed near the game board as a general supply.
Gameplay
The game consists of several rounds, each divided into the following phases:
- Production Phase: Players produce new goods in their existing buildings if the necessary raw materials are available.
- Transport Phase: Players move their vehicles (donkeys, boats, etc.) across the board to shift raw materials and goods from one location to another.
- Construction Phase: Players can build new buildings or upgrade existing ones to expand their production capabilities.
- Research Phase: Players invest in research projects to unlock new technologies or improve their vehicles.
Important Rules
- Means of Transportation: Each transport vehicle can carry only a certain number of resources at a time. Donkeys are the basic means of transport at the beginning; later, boats and trucks with higher capacity can be built.
- Roads and Paths: Players can build roads to facilitate the movement of their vehicles.
- Resource Decay: Certain resources will decay if not used in subsequent turns, requiring careful planning.
- Interaction: There is no direct conflict mechanic; however, players can create competitive situations by blocking resource flows or occupying strategic locations.
End of the Game
The game ends when a certain number of rounds have been played or specific game conditions are met (varies with scenario rules). The player with the most points, earned through technology, buildings, and resources, wins the game.
Strategic Tips
- Long-term Planning: Always think a few moves ahead and consider which resources you'll need now and in the future.
- Efficient Use of Resources: Try to keep all your resources in an efficient production flow to avoid decay.
- Optimization of Transport System: Developing an efficient road network can be crucial for success.
Roads & Boats requires strategic thinking, resource management, and clever utilization of transportation to be effective.
