Name: Bohnanza
Publisher: Rio Grande Games
Designer: Uwe Rosenberg
Players: 2-7
Ages: 12+
Playing Time: 45 Minutes
Download Rules
What does it take to be a successful bean farmer? It may not be as hard as you think! With some creative strategy, a little luck of the draw, and the right friends in Beanland, you could be raking in the dough. Planning ahead, scarcity, and public relations all come into play in this fast paced game that is sure to quickly become a favorite!
As a successful bean farmer, it’s important that you plant the right beans. Of eleven bean varieties, you can only grow two at a time. This means for each bean planted, other beans in your hand must find their own homes. This is where the other farmers come into play: your persuasive skills will quickly be put to the test as you convince other players to take your unwanted beans, and attempt to talk them into giving you their own beans. Negotiations are fierce as popular beans are put up for auction, with everyone competing to grow the most profitable crops, and ultimately to gain the most coins and win the game.
I first played Bohnanza while 30,000 feet in the air on my return from our honeymoon in Tucson. The rules of the game are very straight-forward; in the time it took to reach the Portland airport, we had already played the two-player version several times (which is nearly as fun as with more players). I was so fond of Bohnanza that I introduced it to my family the following month, and they absolutely loved it. Of all the games we own, Bohnanza is by far the most popular with my family. Even a recent Thanksgiving was not complete without a hearty round of Bohnanza!
I would highly recommend this game to others who are looking for a good time with friends. It is not so strategic as to lose the average person, but winning does require skill and planning. Its clever concepts and artistic illustrations can be enjoyed by even the most disinterested gamer. I have thoroughly enjoyed this game and think it will be a classic in our household for many years to come.
