Stats:
No. of players: 2-6
Amount of time to play: 60 min
Age requirements: 14+
Set-up time: 5 min

HomeSretch is a horse racing board game. You buy a stake in different horses then bet on and run the races. If you make the most cash you win.

HomeStretch Description:

HomeStretch takes place over four races. To begin the game each player gets $50,000 and an equal number of horses to buy. The horses are numbered two through twelve. Since horses move rolling two six-sided dice, the horses in the middle cost more. You buy one horse then pass the rest to the player on your left until all have been bought.

Next you reveal the race which shows the horses that have advantages or handicaps plus the prize awards for those having a share in horses that place. You then bet on the horses with five tokens two number ones, two number twos and one number three. Horses with numbers less likely to be rolled pay out higher prizes. The prize money is multiplied by the number on the token you used to bet.

Then the race is run on you turn you roll the dice. You can move the horse you rolled two spaces or instead move them just one. If you decide to only move them one you roll again and that horse is moved two spaces.

After racing you win money based on your bets and if you had a share in a winning horse. If more than one player has a share in a winning horse the money is split evenly.

Between the first and second race you have the opportunity to buy another share of a horse. Then you run three more races and the player with the most money wins.

Quick Review of HomeStretch:

HomeStretch is a good horse-racing game. You’ll need to bet shrewdly and get lucky to win though. This is a good game for families and non-gamers. It is easy to teach and play too. You can even run less races to play a shorter game.

The components for the game are well done. The small horse miniatures are excellent and the cards and art are good. The rules are well written and easy to follow.

I like the way this game simulates a horse race. I have never bet on the horses in real life but this seems like it captures the experience pretty well. It may seem like there are some sure things, but the handicaps and fast starts mixed with which horses players own creates just enough chaos.

This game us great for families. Young kids will not be able to bet but can team up with a parent to help them bet as they roll the dice.

HomeStretch is for you if you enjoy horse racing and board games. Even if you only enjoy one of those you should check out this fun family game.

Score and synopsis: (Click here for an explanation of these review categories.)
Strategy 3 out of 6
Luck 5 out of 6
Player Interaction 3 out of 6
Replay Value 4 out of 6
Complexity 2 out of 6
Fun 4 out of 6
Overall 4 out of 6