Rancho

About this board game

Rancho is a 2–6 player board game with a playing time of about 45 minutes, in which farmers breed animals, buy pastures, and build the best ranch in the region.

Designed by Michael Stajszczak, Rancho expands on the ideas of Super Farmer, the acclaimed game created by Polish mathematician and professor Karol Borsuk. Players must do more than exchange animals and breed their herds: they must also plan purchases of pastures where their animals can live.

Each farmer aims to develop a successful ranch through careful decisions. Animals breed and generate profit, while additional pastures provide space for larger herds. You can also convert animals into other types when that supports your plans, balancing immediate opportunities with the goal ahead.

• Breed animals to grow your herd and bring profit.
• Buy pastures to give your animals places to live.
• Exchange or convert animals when it is worthwhile.
• Watch for a wolf and a fox prowling in the nearby forest.

The predators add danger to your plans, since your animals can become their prey. Managing your ranch therefore means developing your herd while staying alert to threats that can undo your progress.

To win, be the first player to collect a herd containing at least a horse, cow, sheep, and rabbit. With its focus on breeding, trading, pasture planning, and risk from predators, Rancho offers an expanded take on the classic animal-farming concept.

Rancho was created to honor Karol Borsuk and commemorate the success of his original game, first known as Hodowla zwierzątek (“Little animal farm”). It reimplements Super Farmer while adding new possibilities for players to consider.