5.2
rating
Ludopedia
6.5
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
If you enjoy racing games with a deck-building twist and an unusual theme, Salmon Run is a great choice! It's fast, straightforward, and has that good tension of getting ahead.
Highlights
- Unique and fun aquatic race
- Strategic deck-building
- Direct and chaotic interaction
- Varied modular boards
Keep in mind
- Can get a bit chaotic
- Fatigue can be a setback
- Theme might not be for everyone
Rules manual not indexed yet
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Get ready for a thrilling aquatic adventure in Salmon Run! This super dynamic racing game puts you in the fins of a brave salmon on an epic quest: swim upstream back to its birthplace to spawn. But beware, the journey is anything but smooth! The river is teeming with dangers: treacherous rapids, imposing waterfalls, hungry bears lurking on the banks, and eagles ready to snatch you from the sky. Only the most resilient and strategic salmon will manage to complete this perilous migration.
Salmon Run combines the excitement of a race with deck-building. As you advance upstream, choosing your path and facing challenges, you add cards to your 'swimming deck', enhancing your abilities and strategies. But don't overexert yourself! Excessive effort leads to fatigue, which can slow you down. Moreover, player interaction is guaranteed: use cards to unleash bears and eagles on your opponents, or manipulate the river currents to your advantage. And to ensure every game is a new adventure, the board is modular, allowing you to customize the river's difficulty and length. It's a fast-paced game, full of twists and turns, with a unique theme that will keep you hooked from start to finish!
Salmon Run combines the excitement of a race with deck-building. As you advance upstream, choosing your path and facing challenges, you add cards to your 'swimming deck', enhancing your abilities and strategies. But don't overexert yourself! Excessive effort leads to fatigue, which can slow you down. Moreover, player interaction is guaranteed: use cards to unleash bears and eagles on your opponents, or manipulate the river currents to your advantage. And to ensure every game is a new adventure, the board is modular, allowing you to customize the river's difficulty and length. It's a fast-paced game, full of twists and turns, with a unique theme that will keep you hooked from start to finish!
Gallery
Box and component photos
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Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
REC
3
REC
4
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Eagle-Gryphon Games
Designer
Jesse Catron
Artist
Eric J. Carter
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
913owners
190wishlist
58want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
What is the main objective of the game?
The objective is to be the first salmon to complete the dangerous journey upstream to the spawning grounds, overcoming obstacles and other players.
How many players can participate?
Salmon Run is for 2 to 4 players.
How long does a game typically last?
Games are quick, usually lasting between 20 and 45 minutes.
Is the game complicated to learn?
No, the rules are quite straightforward and easy to grasp, ideal for those who want something lighter and faster.
Is there a lot of player interaction?
Yes! You can use cards to hinder your opponents with bears, eagles, or even the river currents.
Does the board change each game?
Yes, the game uses a modular board, meaning the river layout changes every time you play, ensuring variety.
Who is this game best suited for?
It's great for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a quick game with a unique theme and a mix of strategy and luck.
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