Big Sur

25th Century Games · Board game · 2025
2–4 · best 2 15–30 min Weight 1.9/5
7.5 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Buy
7.5 rating Ludopedia
7.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Big Sur is an irresistible invitation for anyone who enjoys quick card games with clever decisions and a charming travel theme. It's a spatial puzzle that fits in your pocket!

Highlights
  • Clever multi-use cards
  • Addictive pattern building
  • Engaging travel theme
  • Quick to learn and play
  • Interesting tactical decisions
Keep in mind
  • Can feel a bit abstract
  • Limited player interaction
  • Requires some spatial thinking
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready for a scenic road trip along California's legendary State Route 1, the famous Big Sur Coast Highway! In Big Sur, you don't just admire the landscape; you build it, inviting others to cruise along the highway you meticulously plan. This strategic and quick card game places you in the role of a road architect, where every decision matters. Players engage in a card draft, wisely choosing how to utilize each card. Every card is versatile: it can be used as a vital resource to pave new sections of your road or as the road segment itself, extending your linear path. The key is to connect different terrain types and meet specific conditions that arise along the way. But it's not just about asphalt! You can also integrate notable landmarks into your highway. These points of interest are inspired by actual scenic lookouts and locations on Big Sur, adding unique scoring layers and a super immersive thematic touch. With a gameplay duration of 15 to 30 minutes, Big Sur is perfect for those seeking a light yet impactful tactical challenge, all while simulating one of the world's most beautiful drives. It's a game that balances simple rules with strategic depth, ideal for a quick session with friends or family.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

4 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 BEST
3 REC
4 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Mechanism: Card Line States: California Theme: Traffic / Driving
Publisher 25th Century Games
Designer Mondo Davis
Artist Tristam Rossin

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,374owners
463wishlist
58want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How many players can play Big Sur?
Big Sur is designed for 2 to 4 players, offering an enjoyable experience in both duels and smaller groups.
What is the average playtime for a game?
A game of Big Sur is quite fast-paced, lasting between 15 and 30 minutes. Perfect for filling a short break or for multiple consecutive rounds!
What is the complexity level of the game?
It has a BGG weight of 1.9333, classifying it as a light to medium game. The rules are easy to grasp, but the decisions offer surprising tactical depth.
What are the main components of the game?
The game primarily consists of cards, which are the heart of the gameplay. They represent both road sections and special resources and landmarks.
Does Big Sur have high language dependency?
No, the game has minimal text on the cards, and most icons and symbols are intuitive. It's easy to memorize and play even with language barriers.
Who is Big Sur best suited for?
It's ideal for those looking for a strategic, fast-paced card game with a relaxing travel theme. Fans of multi-use cards and pattern building games will love it.