According to Corsillo, Raccoon Tycoon combines the fast play of Ticket to Ride with the social interaction of Settlers of Catan, “but is more engaging and fun to look at.” Like Ticket to Ride, a player will win the game by collecting the most points, “but there are multiple ways to earn them - amassing wealth and owning railroads, towns, or buildings - so it’s harder to get bored.” Corsillo also notes that part of what sets Raccoon Tycoon apart is “the intricate, uncanny illustrations,” designed by painter Annie Stegg.
Strategist senior writer Liza Corsillo discovered this game by way of her “strategy-game connoisseur” brother and it quickly became a family game-night staple.