When it comes to board games, many of us are used to the standard layout: a flat board, various playing pieces, and the action unfolding across a clearly defined space. But Colt Express is not your typical board game. Instead of a flat playing board, this game introduces players to a dynamic, 3D environment where all the action takes place aboard a train! It’s a truly unique experience that stands out in the world of tabletop games.
About Colt Express
Set in 1899, the game revolves around the Union Pacific Express, a train journeying north with its valuable payroll and forty-seven unsuspecting passengers. However, things take a dramatic turn when a group of bandits decide to hijack the train and steal as much loot as they can. As a player, you take on the role of one of these bandits, working to outsmart the other outlaws and steal the most loot from the moving train. Meanwhile, the marshal is on the lookout, attempting to stop the criminals and restore order.
In this fast-paced and strategic game, the key objective is to become the richest outlaw when the train reaches its final destination. Will you manage to grab the most loot, or will the marshal prevent your plans? It’s a game of strategy, timing, and a little bit of luck.
Suitable for 2-6 players aged 10 and up, Colt Express has received critical acclaim for its unique concept and engaging gameplay. It’s available for around £27.99, offering hours of fun for family and friends alike.
A Unique Game Setup
The first time you set up Colt Express, it’s a bit more involved than your average board game. The game comes with several components that need to be assembled before the fun can begin, including cacti and a 3D train. Don’t worry, though; once everything is set up, the payoff is well worth the effort.
Start by building the train, which consists of several carriages that players can move between. Players choose four carriages, and loot such as money bags and diamonds is placed inside the carriages, depending on the type of carriages you have chosen for the game. It’s important to create a space where the train can be positioned centrally, allowing everyone to move their pieces around easily and access the loot scattered across the train.
You’ll also want to add cacti and rocks around the playing area, which add to the immersive environment and provide opportunities for players to interact with the game in new ways. The cacti can act as obstacles, and the rocks add a touch of unpredictability.
Each player receives their own player board, which is used to organize the different cards they will use throughout the game. These cards include Activity cards (which allow players to perform actions), Bullet cards (for using weapons), and a special Bonus card that can be played at a strategic moment. Players are also given one money bag to start with, which will be used to collect loot during the game.
Gameplay: Steal, Shoot, and Strategize
Once the setup is complete, it’s time to jump into the action! Players begin in the back two carriages of the train, with the marshal positioned at the front, guarding a loot case. The goal is to move between the carriages, steal loot, and avoid getting caught by the marshal or other players. The game’s mechanics are centered around the use of cards to determine actions. Every player has a hand of cards that they can use to perform actions like moving between carriages, shooting other players, or taking loot.
One of the key elements of Colt Express is its unpredictable nature. Players take turns choosing actions in secret and then reveal them all at once, creating chaos as plans clash and bandits try to outmaneuver one another. The fact that actions are planned in secret means that players must think ahead and anticipate what the other outlaws will do. Will you ambush someone and steal their loot, or will you get caught in a crossfire? The constant tension keeps the game exciting from start to finish.
Strategies and Tactics
While Colt Express has an element of luck, strategy plays a significant role in success. Players need to carefully plan their moves, considering not just their own goals, but also the potential actions of others. The train itself is a key part of the strategy, as players move around between carriages to position themselves for the best loot, all while avoiding being shot by rivals or the marshal. The 3D nature of the game adds an extra layer of depth, as you can visually see the train and plan your moves accordingly.
Another important factor is the use of Bullet cards. Players can shoot each other, causing opponents to drop loot or get pushed back to a different carriage. However, you must choose when to use these cards wisely, as there’s only a limited supply. You don’t want to waste them too early, but you also don’t want to wait too long and miss your chance.
The Bonus cards are an exciting element of the game. These special cards can be used at critical moments to give you an edge over your opponents. Whether it’s stealing an additional loot item or blocking an opponent’s attack, the Bonus cards can completely shift the tide of the game.
Why Colt Express Stands Out
What makes Colt Express such a standout board game is not just its unique 3D train setup, but also its ability to bring people together for a truly fun and interactive experience. The game encourages social interaction and strategic thinking, making it ideal for family game nights or gatherings with friends. The unpredictable nature of the game ensures that no two playthroughs are the same, keeping players coming back for more.
Additionally, Colt Express’s blend of strategy, luck, and player interaction makes it an accessible game for both seasoned board gamers and beginners alike. The rules are easy to understand, and the 3D train setup adds a sense of excitement that traditional board games simply can’t replicate. Whether you’re trying to outsmart your fellow outlaws or working together to outwit the marshal, Colt Express offers a truly dynamic gaming experience.
If you’re looking for a board game that’s a little bit different from the norm, Colt Express is an excellent choice. Its 3D train setup, engaging mechanics, and social nature make it a hit for anyone who enjoys strategy games with a bit of chaos thrown in. It’s a perfect addition to your game night collection, offering plenty of opportunities for laughs, competition, and excitement.
So, round up your fellow outlaws, hop aboard the train, and get ready for a thrilling ride filled with heists, loot, and a whole lot of fun. Will you be the richest outlaw when the train pulls into the station? There’s only one way to find out!