Distant Seas: The Merchant Marine Game (1992)

About this game

A straightforward game of cargo shipping, reminiscent of crayon rails. You own ships and move them about the map, buying and delivering cargo. Ships come in several types: General Cargo, Refrigerated Cargo, Tanker and Bulk Carrier, forcing you to match cargo type and ship type unless you're willing to pay the penalties. You can own multiple ships, but will a new ship be amortized before the game ends?

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 2 to 4.
• Rules load. At 1.8/5 this is a light game — explain it in a few minutes, good for a table that has not played much.
• Age. The publisher suggests 12 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.