Cities

E. E. Fairchild Corporation · Board game · 1932
7.9 Ludopedia 3.7 BGG 2–6 20 min
Buy
7.9 rating Ludopedia
3.7 rating BGG

What do you want to do now

Ask questions about the game

Ask anything about Cities: rules, setup, components, complexity, price, or whether it fits your group.

New conversation 0/1200
Example questions
Learn to play Step by step, manual and videos
Our Verdict

If you love quick card games and want to learn urban trivia, Cities is your next tabletop buddy.

Highlights
  • Fast and fun
  • Historical trivia
  • Well‑illustrated cards
Keep in mind
  • Very simple rules
  • Little strategic depth
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our complete step-by-step rules guide.
Access Rules Guide

About the game

What you do in a play session

Cities is a classic card game that brings the fun of a rummy-style game straight to the table, but with a historical and educational twist. The deck has 54 cards, divided into three groups of 18 cities, each represented by three distinct cards (for example, Chicago, Chicago, Chicago). The goal is simple: collect the three cards of the same city and earn points based on the city’s population – but beware, in 1932 the population rankings were quite different from what we know today, so Houston might appear smaller than Milwaukee! Each card features an illustration of a famous building and a quick fact, such as the number of viaducts in Pittsburgh, making the game an educational tour while you try to win. The game works for 2 to 6 players, with a short playtime (about 20 minutes) and light weight, ideal for quick sessions or to introduce hand management and set collection mechanics to newcomers. The simplicity of the rules doesn’t take away the charm – the challenge lies in choosing when to trade cards, when to hold a good combination, and when to wait for the right card. For those who enjoy quick card games, strategy, and a bit of urban education, Cities is a sure bet, with scoring based on historical data that can still surprise players. The game is perfect for anyone looking for something light, but with a touch of strategy and, of course, a dash of urban learning.

Rules manual

Official PDF file

Rules manual — Cities English · PDF
Download Manual

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–6 players
2 OK
3 OK
4 OK
5 OK
6 OK

Where to Buy

Prices monitored daily

Finding best prices...

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability subject to change.

Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Publisher E. E. Fairchild Corporation
Designer (Uncredited)

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How long does a typical game of Cities last?
A game usually lasts between 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the number of players.
How many players can play?
2 to 6 players can join, making it great for both small and large groups.
What components are included in the game?
The game comes with 54 cards, each depicting a famous building and a fun fact about the city.
What are the main mechanics used?
The core mechanics are Hand Management and Set Collection, where you decide when to use or hold cards and when to complete city sets.
Is the game suitable for kids?
Yes, from age 10 onward, as the rules are simple and it offers a fun introduction to collection and strategy concepts.
What makes Cities stand out from other card games?
The blend of illustrated cards with historical trivia and the city set collection mechanic gives the game an educational twist.
How does the scoring work?
You earn points by completing the three cards of a city, and the score corresponds to the city’s historical population in 1932.

Other Games You'll Like

Based on mechanics and theme

8 games