How To Play: M

Overview

Welcome, fellow board game fans! If you’ve ever stared at the box for M and thought, “How do I win this thing?” you’re in the right place. This How To Play m guide covers a quick outline of the rules and all my best tips (and a few mistakes) from playing with my friends. If you want to stop losing to your cousin, read on!

What’s in the box

• 1 Game board
• 6 Player tokens
• 90 Resource cards
• 36 Action tiles
• 1 Rulebook
• 18 Event cards
• 50 Coins
• 6 Player mats
• 12 Objective markers

How To Play M: Rules Summary

Setup

1. Place the board in the center, right side up. Double-check, unless you want to play hard mode like my friend Dave that one time.
2. Give each player their starting pieces and player board. Don’t argue over colors unless you want to lose friends before the game even starts.
3. Shuffle the main deck and deal everyone three cards. Put the rest by the board. Remember to remove the promo cards unless you enjoy chaos.
4. Place resource tokens and point markers within reach. Bribing for better seat access is allowed (not officially, but who’s checking?).

Gameplay

1. On your turn, draw a card, then choose and complete one action. You only get one action per turn, so no sneaky triple moves.
2. Actions include: Move, Gather, Build, or Trade. If you forget what they do, there’s a handy summary card (or just ask the loudest player at the table).
3. Use any special cards when allowed. Just don’t forget—you can’t use them out of turn, as my buddy Sam learned the hard way.
4. Pass play to the left. If you get skipped, feel free to remind everyone loudly and repeatedly.

Winning

1. The first player to reach 20 points triggers the final round. Cue the dramatic music (optional but encouraged).
2. Everyone else gets one more turn. No, you cannot have two turns—my cousin tried, still lost.
3. After all turns are done, count up scores. The highest total wins. Tiebreaker? Flip a coin, stare each other down, or check the rulebook for the real answer.

Special Rules & Conditions

1. If you draw a Wild Card, immediately resolve its effect, even if you don’t want to (trust me, ignoring it never ends well).
2. If someone runs out of resource tokens, reshuffle the discard pile. Yes, this will happen more than once—resource hoarding is real, folks.
3. If you catch anyone cheating, they must perform their best chicken impression. Or lose a turn, your choice. House rules, people.

That’s it! How To Play m made easy—follow these steps, keep snacks nearby, and try not to flip the table. Happy gaming!

Best M Strategies

Crushing the Early Game: Best Ways to Start Strong in M

Pick the Right Starting Position

I always grab a spot close to resources. Also, I check where my friends sit, so I avoid early fights. Key spots usually give you a head start.

1. Choose positions with easy access to key resources.
2. Pick a seat far from the most aggressive player.
3. Check for bonus points near starting spots.

Make the First Moves Count

Next, I focus on quick actions that score early points. This means grabbing low-hanging fruit before anyone else does.

1. Secure early objectives sitting on the board.
2. Build an engine for fast points.
3. Block opponents’ obvious opening moves.

Resource Management from Turn One

Finally, I start managing resources tight from the first turn. If you waste early, you’ll regret it later. Trust me, my first game was a mess because of this.

1. Spend starting resources wisely.
2. Invest only in early tools you’ll use right away.
3. Plan your moves for the next two turns ahead.

Mastering Resources: How To Play m Like a Champ

Prioritize Your Needs

Early on, you must know what you need most. Don’t try to grab every resource! Focus on these things:

1. Grab the rare stuff first—scarcity wins games.
2. Keep an eye on what your friends (and fake rivals) are hoarding.
3. Trade only when it helps you, not just because you can.

Plan For The Future

Don’t burn all your goodies too soon. Here’s what I learned after getting trounced by my cousin last week:

1. Stash something for a rainy round; you’ll thank yourself.
2. Upgrade or invest whenever possible to stretch your resources further.

React And Adapt

If the game throws a wrench in your plan, don’t panic.

1. Change course fast—stubborn folks lose big.
2. Watch for patterns in what others leave behind, then swoop in for the steal.

How To Play m is all about being sneaky and smart with what you got. With these resource tips, you’ll annoy your friends and maybe even win.

How To Play m: Crush the Finish Line!

Pick the Right Path Early

1. Spot win conditions before your friends do.
2. Commit to a direction once you’re sure. No flip-flopping!

Watch Your Opponents

1. Keep an eye open. If someone’s pulling ahead, block them!
2. React fast to any new threats. I learned this the hard way—Jonny snuck past me last time!

Time Your Big Moves

1. Save your best cards or actions for the dramatic finish.
2. Surprise everyone by swooping in just when they least expect it.

Master these How To Play m tricks and you’ll be the table hero, not the goat who gets beat by Grandma again!

Ready to Crush Your Next Game Night?

Look, I’ve lost at M enough times to know you can do better. With these How To Play m tips, you’re armed and ready. Remember: plan ahead, grab those resources, and keep your eyes on the prize. Also, don’t trust anyone who brings snacks—those people are always scheming. Go play M, use these tricks, and maybe—just maybe—you’ll finally beat your little cousin. Good luck, champ!

Want to know what we think of M? Read our detailed review of M here