Bounty Hunter: Shootout at the Saloon (1982)

Shootout at the Saloon

Game Components of Bounty Hunter: Shootout at the Saloon

2 picture books (one for the Lawman and one for the Outlaw)

14 different locations in and around the town saloon

Illustrations by John Garcia

Rules and instructions for gameplay

How To Setup Bounty Hunter: Shootout at the Saloon

To set up the game, each player chooses one of the picture books corresponding to their role (Lawman or Outlaw). Players then select one of the 14 locations as their starting point and decide the direction they are facing. For example, the Lawman might start outside the saloon doors, while the Outlaw could begin inside the saloon facing the bar. Each player refers to the appropriate page in their book based on their chosen location and direction.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Uses a stop-action system with two picture books to show each player their character’s current point of view.

Turn Structure: Players decide on actions (stay in place, turn, move, or aim) and refer to new pages based on these actions.

Game Objective: The Lawman aims to wound or kill the Outlaw, while the Outlaw tries to escape or shoot the Lawman.

Shared Information: Players share their current page numbers to align their perspectives and determine the next steps.

Player Experience

Playing **Bounty Hunter: Shootout at the Saloon** can be an immersive experience, simulating the tense moments of an Old West shootout. The game’s unique mechanic of using picture books to delineate the combat scene adds a visual element that enhances the gameplay. However, the limited number of locations and actions can make the game feel restrictive.

Pros

Innovative Mechanics: The use of picture books provides a unique and engaging way to simulate combat.

Historical Theme: The game offers a detailed and immersive experience of an Old West shootout.

Visual Appeal: Extensively illustrated by John Garcia, the game has a compelling visual aspect.

Cons

Limited Movement: With only 14 locations, players’ options are very restricted, which can make the game feel repetitive.

Critical Reception: Critics found the game lacking due to its limited movement options.

No Further Expansions: Despite plans for a modular game system, no further games in the series were published.

Personal Thoughts on Bounty Hunter: Shootout at the Saloon

This game is ideal for those who appreciate unique gameplay mechanics and are fans of Western-themed games. However, it may not appeal to players seeking more complex or dynamic gameplay. The limited movement options and lack of expansions might make it less appealing to some, but it remains a collectible and intriguing piece of gaming history.

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