Bantam West

Bantam Planet, Bumble3ee Interactive, Game Harbor · Board game · 2023
— Ludopedia 7.8 BGG 1–4 · best 3 Solo 45–180 min Weight 3.3/5
Buy · from US$ 55.99
— rating Ludopedia
7.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

Perfect for those who love sandboxes and competitive RPGs; the freedom of choice is the highlight.

Highlights
  • Total strategic freedom
  • Unique character powers
  • Dynamic modular board
  • Rewarding character progression
Keep in mind
  • Moderate language dependence
  • Initial learning curve
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

Dust off your boots and check your revolver, because you've just arrived in Gallow Springs! In the open world of Bantam West, you are one of the 'Deadly Strangers' trying to survive the Dethelm Frontier, the most dangerous place you've ever set foot in. Here, civilization is just a word; what really matters is your ability to withstand the onslaught of bandits, cultists, and hungry predators. Your goal? Become the most notorious figure in the region, but the path to fame is paved with sweat, gunpowder, and likely a few burned-down cabins.

The game operates as a total sandbox. You have the freedom to forge your own strategy based on your character's personality. Do you want to be the influential merchant dominating the economy, a quick-draw gunslinger who never misses, a stealthy thief vanishing into the shadows, or a malicious arsonist who loves to watch the world burn? The choice is yours, and each path offers unique ways to outperform the competition. You'll need to manage your action points (Grit) to work, fight, build your shelter, and recruit your own posse to protect your hard-earned assets.

The experience blends RPG depth with the tension of a competitive board game. You start from nothing and, over time, can transform small businesses into massive corporations that operate deep within the frontier. But stay alert: while you accumulate wealth, your rivals are watching. Don't be surprised if you wake up to find someone has stolen your gold or your home has been reduced to ashes. Between dice rolling, hand management, and exploring a modular board that changes every session, Bantam West is a survival test where ambition and malice are your best tools. Will you dominate Gallow Springs, or will you be just another forgotten body in the desert?

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

2 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–4 players
1 OK
2 REC
3 BEST
4 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: Tabletopia Game: Bantam West
Publisher Bantam Planet, Bumble3ee Interactive, Game Harbor
Designer Ike Brunicardi
Artist Anh Le Art, Hokunin, Marc Moureau, Mitch Mueller, One Pixel Brush, Pol Amaya, Vito Rafiie

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

897owners
567wishlist
49want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
Is the game very complex?
It has a medium-high weight (3.33 on BGG), so it's not for absolute beginners, but those who enjoy RPGs and strategy games will feel right at home.
Can I play it solo?
Yes, the game supports 1 to 4 players, allowing you to explore the frontier even without company.
How long does a game last?
It varies quite a bit: from 45 minutes for quick games to up to 3 hours for more epic and detailed sessions.
Do I need a translation to play?
Yes, there is moderate language dependence, so having translated cards or a spreadsheet helps a lot.
Does the game come with miniatures?
Yes, the game uses miniatures to represent characters and elements on the board, enhancing the immersion.
Is it a cooperative or competitive game?
Fully competitive. You want to be the most notorious, and that usually involves stealing and burning your friends' stuff.

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