The Game of 49

Big Potato Games, Markee Games, Breaking Games · Board game · 2014
2–5 · best 5 45 min Weight 1.6/5
49.0 rating Ludopedia
6.3 rating BGG
Buy
49.0 rating Ludopedia
6.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Fast, addictive, and perfect for fans of abstract strategy games.

Highlights
  • Dynamic and tense bidding
  • Super easy to learn rules
  • Quick and intense gameplay
  • Great for various groups
Keep in mind
  • Highly dependent on card luck
  • Might feel too short for some
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

You know that board game you can explain in two minutes, but your brain starts frying the moment you have to decide on a bid? The Game of 49 is exactly that kind of fast-paced, addictive fun. The concept is straightforward: everyone starts with $49, and the goal is to dominate the 7x7 grid. The gameplay revolves around constant auctions. Number cards are revealed, and you must decide if it's worth spending your cash to secure that specific spot on the board. If you win the bid, you place your chip there and you're set! But it doesn't stop there: special cards can flip the script, allowing you to choose your chip's placement and even distributing cash to all players—which could be a brilliant strategic move or a total blunder. The real challenge is that you aren't just placing chips; you are trying to form a line of four spaces in any direction to clinch the win. It's a game of pure risk assessment and reading your opponents. If you enjoy abstract games that are quick and don't require a massive rulebook, this is your perfect match. It's ideal for a quick break between larger games or a casual game night where the focus is on direct, fast-paced competition. Get your (virtual) wallet ready and good luck on the board!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

4 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–5 players
2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST
5 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Category: n in a row Components: 7 x 7 Grids Country: USA Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Mechanism: 4 in a Row Space: Mars
Publisher Big Potato Games, Markee Games, Breaking Games, HaKubia
Designer Mark Corsey
Artist Robin Sowden García

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

2,964owners
205wishlist
33want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How long does a game last?
Typically between 15 to 30 minutes, making it very quick.
What is the recommended age?
8 years and up, due to the simple rules.
Is it a complex game?
Not at all; it's straightforward but requires strategic bidding.
How many players can play?
2 to 5 players, making it great for small groups.
Is it heavily luck-dependent?
Luck plays a role with the cards, but bidding strategy is key.

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