Cargo Noir Board Game

by Gary Sonnenberg

(Waukesha, WI)

Cargo Noir Board Game
Board game manufacturer:
Days of Wonder
Number of players:
2-5
Ages:
8yrs+
Time:
60 mins

Quick verdict

Cargo Noir is a family-friendly game of set collection that is easy to learn, easy to play, and provides a fun experience for gamers of all ages and experience levels.

The game and gameplay

In Cargo Noir, you play as one of a number of competing crime families. You go to various ports to bid on the goods there. As you gain goods, you are able to sell them in two ways: groups of goods that are all the same (which are worth more) and groups of goods that are all different (which are easier to obtain).

You sell the goods in order to buy various items that are worthy of crime bosses, anything from dive bars and yachts to militias and principalities. These items are worth victory points at the end of the game.

Additionally, players can buy Smuggler’s Edge cards that are worth a small amount of victory points but, more importantly, give players additional advantages, from an extra ship to send out to ports to warehouses to store extra goods in.

At its heart, Cargo Noir has two very simple mechanics: auctions for goods at ports and set collection. These are mechanics that gamers of all ages and experience levels can understand.

While the idea of having children pretend to be crime bosses may not be appealing to some parents, the theme in this game is not all that well integrated. In other words, while the game tells you that you are a crime boss, it doesn’t really feel like you’re doing very much illegal activity. Some people may see this as a good thing, some may see it as a bad thing, it all depends how much theme matters to you.

Pros and cons

Pros: Easy to learn and play, good for all gamers, great artwork and components, fun, quick gameplay.

Cons: Theme may not be for some, theme not that well integrated, some strategy, but may not be enough to satisfy experienced gamers.

See more strategy board games

The verdict

There are a lot of reasons to like Cargo Noir board game, from the beautiful artwork and components to the simple rules and gameplay. However, people will be able to find reasons not to like it, whether it be issues with the theme or lack of deep strategy. In the end, it comes down to your personal preferences.

If you’ve played Cargo Noir, please leave a rating and comments using the link below.