5 Alive (1990) Board Game
5 Alive is a classic card game that was first released in in 1990. Designed by Eàmon Bloomfield, this game has been enjoyed by players of all ages for decades. With its simple rules and strategic gameplay, 5 Alive has stood the test of time as a beloved card game.
Game Components of 5 Alive
How To Setup 5 Alive
To set up the game, each player starts with 5 lives and a hand of cards. The deck is shuffled, and cards are distributed evenly among the players. The objective and rules are explained before the game begins.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
– Players take turns playing cards from their hand.
– ‘Normal’ cards have a face value; the goal is to avoid taking the running total above 21.
– If a player exceeds 21, they lose a life.
– If a player manages to play the last card from their hand without exceeding 21, every other player loses a life.
– ‘Wild’ cards perform special actions like resetting the running total, skipping the next player, reversing the direction of play, or causing other players to draw extra cards.
Player Experience
**5 Alive** is a fast-paced game suitable for families and kids, designed for 2 to 7 players, with a playing time of about 30 minutes. It requires strategic hand management and can be quite engaging, especially with the special actions of the ‘wild’ cards. The game is simple enough for children aged 7 and above to understand and enjoy.
Pros
Cons
Personal Thoughts on 5 Alive
**5 Alive** is a great game for families and younger children looking for a fun, quick card game that doesn’t require a lot of setup or complex rules. While it may not appeal to seasoned gamers seeking deeper strategies, it is an excellent introduction to card games and can provide hours of entertainment for its target audience. If you’re looking for something light-hearted and easy to pick up, **5 Alive** is a solid choice.
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