The Networks: Primetime

The Networks: Primetime

EconomicHumorLicensed / Adapted
Players
1-5
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
4 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
90 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
13+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
2.6 / 5
Year
2016

About the game

The Networks: Primetime puts players in charge of a rival TV network, drafting Shows, Stars, and Ads to build the most popular lineup on air. Stars boost viewership but often have preferences about which genre of show they'll join, while Ads bring in extra cash if placed in the right time slot. As shows age, you'll need to cancel them into lucrative reruns to keep your lineup fresh and your viewer counts climbing. After five seasons, the network with the most viewers wins the ratings war.

Hobbli's Notes

The Networks nails a humorous television theme onto a genuinely clever drafting and engine-building core. Balancing star demands, ad timing, and show aging gives it more depth than its light-hearted presentation suggests.

What we like

  • Clever, humorous take on television network management.
  • Flexible drafting rewards synergy between shows, stars, and ads.
  • Solid solo mode for a drafting-style game.
  • Good replayability thanks to a large, varied card pool.

Keep in mind

  • Downtime can build up with more players at the table.
  • Rules for show aging and reruns add some bookkeeping overhead.
  • Comedic theme may feel dated to some players over time.

Who it's for

Great for gamers who enjoy drafting and engine-building games with a comedic theme; scales from solo play up to 5 players, teens and up.

Mechanics

End Game BonusesIncomeDraftingSet CollectionSolo / Solitaire GameTurn Order

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