1st & Roll (2018) Board Game

1st & Roll is a sports-themed board game released in 2018 designed by Jennifer Vargas. The game is published by R&R Games and is suitable for 2-4 players aged 14 and above. The gameplay revolves around dice rolling mechanics, where players act as football coaches trying to out-strategize their opponents to lead their team to victory.

Game Components of 1st & Roll

Board

Custom football

First down marker

Clock marker

6 Magnet markers

Coin

3 Offensive dice

3 Defensive dice

Specialty dice (Penalty, Kick, Clock)[4%.

How To Setup 1st & Roll

To set up the game, players need to place the board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects their side of the board and places the necessary markers and dice accordingly. The custom football, first down flags, and other markers stick to the board using magnets, ensuring a fair and organized game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Dice Rolling: Players roll dice to determine the outcomes of their plays.

Play Selection: Players select offensive and defensive plays by choosing and revealing dice simultaneously.

Strategy: Involves choosing the right plays to gain yardage while defending against the opponent’s plays.

Game Objective

The objective is to score more points than the opponent by successfully executing offensive plays and defending against the opponent’s plays.

The game includes various football actions such as breakaway runs, sacks, penalties, long passes, fumbles, and interceptions.

Player Experience

**1st & Roll** is designed to be easy to learn and fun to play, making it accessible to both football fans and those new to the sport. Players appreciate the high-quality components and the magnetic board that keeps everything in place. The game is engaging, with moments of excitement and tension, especially as it nears the end. It’s suitable for players aged 14 and up and can be enjoyed in about 30-60 minutes.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple and quick to understand, even for those not familiar with detailed board game mechanics.

High-Quality Components: The game includes high-quality components, including a magnetic board and custom dice.

Strategic Depth: Combines luck and strategy, allowing players to out-think their opponents.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for family game nights and enjoyable for both adults and kids.

Comprehensive Rule Set: Includes detailed rules for various football scenarios.

Cons

Luck Factor: The game involves a significant amount of luck due to dice rolling.

Limited Player Count: Officially designed for 2-4 players, though a solo variant is possible with some adjustments.

Personal Thoughts on 1st & Roll

**1st & Roll** is ideal for football enthusiasts and those looking for a fun, strategic board game. It’s a great crossover game for friends and family who enjoy sports but may not be regular board game players. The game’s ability to abstract the complex rules of football into a simple yet engaging format makes it a standout in its category. While it may not be perfect for those seeking a game with minimal luck, it offers a balanced mix of strategy and chance that keeps players engaged and entertained.

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.