Bison: Thunder on the Prairie

Devir, Egmont Polska, Mayfair Games · Board game · 2006
2–4 · best 3 90 min Weight 2.7/5
7.2 rating Ludopedia
6.3 rating BGG
Buy
7.2 rating Ludopedia
6.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Fans of area control games with historical themes will enjoy Bison. The game shines in strategic resource management and the replayability of the modular board.

Highlights
  • Modular board enhances replayability
  • Strategic and engaging resource management
  • Well-executed Wild West theme
  • Integrated area control mechanics
Keep in mind
  • Can be slow with 4 players
  • Moderate learning curve for beginners
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About the game

What you do in a play session

In Bison: Thunder on the Prairie, you take on the role of a Native American tribe striving to survive and thrive on the vast prairies. The game combines tile placement, action point management, and area control on a modular board that changes every game. Your goal is to gather bison, fish, and turkeys, using these resources to explore new lands, acquire equipment like canoes and tents, and dominate the richest areas. Each resource has its importance: bison provide food and leather, fish are vital for sustenance, and turkeys are used in rituals and adornments. In the end, the tribe that accumulates the most animals wins, proving their ability to survive and adapt to the harsh environment of the American West.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 BEST
3 BEST
4 REC

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Animals: Turkeys Country: USA Theme: Native Americans / First Peoples
Publisher Devir, Egmont Polska, Mayfair Games, Phalanx Games B.V.
Designer Michael Kiesling, Wolfgang Kramer
Artist Franz Vohwinkel, Marek Szyszko

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

2,275owners
185wishlist
38want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How many players can play Bison?
Bison supports 2 to 4 players, but plays best with 3 or 4.
What's the average playtime?
A game typically lasts around 90 minutes, but may vary depending on player count.
Is the game language dependent?
No, components are mostly icon-based with minimal language dependence.
Is it suitable for beginners?
It has a moderate learning curve but rules are accessible for those familiar with strategy games.
What are the main components?
Includes tribe pieces, resource markers, modular board, and market cards.

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