Bus

Splotter Spellen, Capstone Games · Board game · 1999
3–5 · best 4 120 min Weight 3.1/5
8.0 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
8.0 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict

A dream for optimization and logistics lovers, featuring a delightfully competitive interaction.

Highlights
  • Very clever urban logistics
  • Strategic and competitive interaction
  • Satisfying network progression
  • Innovative turn system
Keep in mind
  • Steeper learning curve
  • Games can be quite long
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Imagine you're the owner of a bus company in a city that grows as you play. Bus isn't just about driving; it's about planning the perfect urban logistics. Your goal is simple: deliver as many passengers as possible to their destinations. But here's the twist: people's destinations change as the day progresses. In the morning they go to work, then to the bar, and finally back home. If you plan your route around this flow, you can carry the same passenger multiple times, maximizing your points.

The game shines in its action management. You can buy new buses to increase transport capacity, expand your lines, or even add new buildings to the city. And that's where the strategy gets mean: you can build buildings strategically to disrupt your opponent's route, forcing their passengers to walk instead of using their bus.

One of the most tense aspects is the action board. Some choices create a game of 'chicken,' where the first player to claim an action actually executes it last. This leads to agonizing decisions and constant reversals. Additionally, you must keep an eye on the train stations, where new passengers arrive, and ensure your network is efficient enough to capture them before your rivals. It's a medium-heavy game, ideal for those who love heavy optimization and a touch of indirect (or direct, if you enjoy ruining a friend's route) interaction.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 REC
4 BEST
5 REC
WHERE TO BUY
Finding best prices...
Game details

Categories

Families

Category: Combinatorial Components: Map (City Scale) Components: Wooden pieces & boards Digital Implementations: Online Board Gamers Misc: Watch It Played How To Videos Theme: Time Travel
Publisher Splotter Spellen, Capstone Games
Designer Jeroen Doumen, Joris Wiersinga
Artist Daan van Paridon, Herman Haverkort, Joris Wiersinga, Tamara Jannink, Thijs van Paridon
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game too complex?
It has a 3/5 weight, so it's not for absolute beginners. It requires planning and patience to grasp the city dynamics.
How long does a game last?
Expect to spend about 2 hours. Since it involves network building and planning, the pace is more measured.
Does it work well with 3 players or is 5 better?
It works well across the range (3-5), but with more players, the city gets tighter and the fight for space intensifies.
Do I need English to play?
No, the game has no language dependency, so the language of the box doesn't affect gameplay.
Who would you recommend this game to?
To those who enjoy Eurogames focused on logistics, route building, and planning several moves ahead.