July Game Day Report

Today was a “different” game day.  There were only 4 of us present and we started the day by playing with my garden railroad.

In the garden we split into two teams (an engineer controlling an engine and a conductor throwing switches, etc.).  Each team picked up a number of cars in remote locations and brought them to the main yard.  Then the cuts of cars were swapped and delivered back to other remote locations.  It was really a beta test, as the layout has never been operated extensively before.  As such, a “punch list” of problems was created that will keep me occupied for many hours (and many dollars). In the end an operating session on a model railroad is a lot like a co-op boardgame.  If the orders for the day are accomplished without derailments or damage then everyone wins!

The primary event for the day was to play a full game of Race Formula 90.  I think it got two thumbs up from everyone.  It is not to be taken lightly - it’s a bit of brain burner is one wants it to be.  Even though it is an abstraction, it probably feels more like a real car race than many other race games (yes, I’m looking at you Formula De).  We are not yet ready to dive into the advanced game.

After dinner we dusted off a 1970’s sailboat racing game named Regatta.  It’s not a bad short simulation of sailing - with all the associated luck of the wind.

There is no game day in August to allow Seattle folks to attend Dragonflight (or BGG@Sea in my case).  The next game day is presently targeted for September 10.

September is our first new “themeless” month - instructions on how that will work will follow.