Great Western Trail

About this board game

Great Western Trail is a board game for 2–4 players that takes about 150 minutes to play. Set in 19th-century America, it puts you in the role of a rancher repeatedly herding cattle from Texas to Kansas City.

Each journey along the trail is an opportunity to earn money and victory points. When you reach Kansas City, the value of the cattle in your herd matters, so keeping your herd in good shape is an important part of your ranching challenge.

The trail is also filled with buildings that can help shape your approach. Use these opportunities wisely as you guide your herd, while staying alert to the various pitfalls that can affect your progress.

Capable staff can further support your ranch and your plans. You may hire:

• Cowboys to improve your herd
• Craftsmen to build your own buildings
• Engineers for the important railroad line

Success in Great Western Trail comes from managing your herd cleverly and making the most of the choices available along the route. Decide how to use the buildings, which staff to hire, and how to arrive in Kansas City with your most valuable cattle in tow.

With its blend of cattle management, building use, staff hiring, and railroad development, the game challenges players to turn repeated journeys across the trail into the most victory points. The rancher who navigates the opportunities and pitfalls most effectively wins.