51st State

Portal Games, Edge Entertainment, IELLO · Board game · 2010
2–4 · best 2 40–90 min Weight 3.1/5
51.0 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Buy
51.0 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy card games with a post-apocalyptic sci-fi vibe and love making tough decisions with every play, 51st State is for you! The mechanic of using cards in three different ways is its standout feature.

Highlights
  • Impactful strategic decisions
  • High replayability
  • Immersive post-apocalyptic theme
  • 3-use-per-card mechanic
Keep in mind
  • Can be a bit complex initially
  • Interaction can be limited
  • Relies on draw luck
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Hey folks! Let's dive into 51st State. Picture this: a post-apocalyptic future where the USA has crumbled, and various factions are vying for control of the ruins. That's where you come in, leading one of four powers – mutants, traders, New Yorkers, or Appalachians – to rebuild the country in your image. This card game challenges you to construct your own state, expanding your territory with new locations, recruiting leaders, and putting your people to work in buildings to secure resources and new skills. The brilliant twist is that each card offers three distinct uses: invade a location for an immediate resource boost, sign a contract for recurring income each turn, or attach the location to your state to utilize its special ability. Every play presents a multitude of decisions, and choosing the optimal path is crucial for success. With its emphasis on hand management and variable player powers, 51st State plunges you into a sci-fi world with a strong economic flavor, where every choice shapes the new world order. Get ready for deep strategy and minimal luck!
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
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Game details

Families

Game: 51st State Mechanism: Tableau Building Setting: Neuroshima Theme: Post-Apocalyptic Versions & Editions: Board Game Versions of Role-Playing Games
Publisher Portal Games, Edge Entertainment, IELLO, Toy Vault, Inc.
Designer Ignacy Trzewiczek
Artist Adam Wójcicki, Daniel Grzeszkiewicz, Mariusz Gandzel, Mateusz Bielski, Michał Oracz, Piotr Foksowicz, Roch Hercka, Tomasz Jedruszek
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime for 51st State?
A game of 51st State typically lasts between 40 and 90 minutes, depending on the number of players and their familiarity with the rules.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 2 to 4 players, offering different experiences at each player count.
Is the game difficult to learn?
51st State has a medium complexity rating (3.10 out of 5 on BGG). The basic rules are accessible, but mastering the strategies and card interactions takes some time.
Do I need a lot of table space to play?
As a card game with tableau building, it doesn't require a massive table, but a reasonable amount of space to accommodate the cards and tokens is recommended.
Who is 51st State recommended for?
It's ideal for those who enjoy card games with strategic depth, sci-fi and post-apocalyptic themes, and don't mind making complex decisions each turn.
Is there any language dependency?
There is no language dependency on the cards, which makes it easier to play even if you encounter a version in another language.