1984: Animal Farm (2012) Board Game

1984: Animal Farm is a board game released in 2012, designed by Igor Myszkiewicz and illustrated by Kuźnia Gier. The game is based on George Orwell’s classic novels “1984” and “Animal Farm”, blending elements of both into a strategic and immersive gameplay experience.

Game Components of 1984: Animal Farm

Player agents: Each player has agents to place on the board, representing their influence in different regions.

Influence Tokens: Used to score points and start revolutions.

Revolution cards: Dictate the conditions for starting revolutions.

Region boards: Represent various areas of global influence.

Animal species: Players can choose from Frogs, Pigs, Bears, Pandas, and Eagles, though these are purely cosmetic.

How To Setup 1984: Animal Farm

The setup involves each player placing their agents on the board to establish initial influence. With five players, the game starts balanced, with each player having one agent in each region. For three or four players, the setup requires focusing on specific regions by adding more agents.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Modular board: The game board changes with each setup.

Negotiation: Players must form alliances to control regions.

Area control: Control regions by having more agents in an area than other players.

Token management: Manage Influence Tokens to start revolutions and score points.

Objective: Score points by starting revolutions, which require joint discard of Influence Tokens between neighboring players.

Player Experience

**1984: Animal Farm** is known for its dynamic and betrayals-filled gameplay. Players must constantly reevaluate their strategies and alliances, as the game encourages backstabbing and betrayal. The complex scoring system and token management can lead to extended deliberation, making the game challenging but engaging.

Pros

Dynamic gameplay: Constant changes in alliances and strategies.

Encourages negotiation: Players must negotiate to achieve their goals.

Balanced mechanics: The game counters the popular bash-the-leader strategy effectively.

Fun and engaging: For those who enjoy negotiation and area control games.

Cons

Complex rules: The influence token system can be confusing and lacks elegance.

Long deliberation: Players prone to overthinking can drag the game out.

Requires betrayal: May not be enjoyable for those who prefer cooperative or less confrontational games.

Personal Thoughts on 1984: Animal Farm

**1984: Animal Farm** is ideal for players who enjoy negotiation, area control, and strategic betrayal. It creates an intense atmosphere where trust is a luxury, making it a solid choice for fans of complex, back-stabby games. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking cooperative or less confrontational gaming experiences.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.