Raid on Takao (2019) Board Game

Raid on Takao is a board game that takes place during World War II, specifically focusing on the Japanese naval base in Takao (modern-day Kaohsiung, Taiwan). Players take on different roles and work together to complete the mission of raiding the heavily guarded base.

Game Components of Raid on Takao

Player characters: Each player controls a unique survivor with special abilities.

Fulfilment cards: These cards represent personal goals and objectives.

Scenario cards: The game includes five scenarios based on historical events.

Game board: Depicts the city of Takao, showing various locations and hazards.

Action tokens: Used to manage the players’ limited actions.

Morale tokens: Track the players’ morale, affected by completing or failing personal goals.

How To Setup Raid on Takao

Setting up the game involves placing the game board, distributing player characters and their corresponding fulfilment cards, and selecting a scenario. Each player chooses a character and places their token on the board. The scenario card outlines the common goal and any specific setup instructions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative gameplay: Players work together to achieve a common goal.

Scenario-driven: Each scenario is based on historical events and has unique objectives.

Character skills: Each character has special abilities that aid in completing objectives.

Personal goals: Players have personal fulfilment cards that must be completed alongside the common goal.

Limited actions: Players have a limited number of actions per turn.

Morale system: Failing personal goals reduces morale, impacting gameplay.

Historical context: The game is set during the American bombing of Taiwan, adding a layer of historical significance.

Player Experience

In Raid on Takao, players take on the roles of ordinary people trying to survive in the midst of war. The game emphasizes the importance of relationships and cooperation, as characters may have goals tied to their in-game family and friends. This dynamic adds a personal and emotional layer to the gameplay, making the experience more immersive and relatable.

Pros

Strong cooperative mechanics: Encourages teamwork and strategy.

Emotional depth: The relationship elements between characters add a compelling narrative layer.

Historical significance: The game educates players about a lesser-known chapter of World War II.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and character combinations ensure varied gameplay.

Engaging story: The personal goals and scenario objectives create a compelling story arc.

Cons

Complex setup: Setting up the game can be time-consuming due to the various components and scenario-specific instructions.

Emotional intensity: The game’s themes and mechanics can be emotionally taxing, especially if players fail to complete personal goals.

Personal Thoughts on Raid on Takao

Raid on Takao is ideal for players who enjoy cooperative games with deep narrative elements and historical context. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate games that focus on survival and teamwork rather than direct combat or heroic actions. The game’s ability to balance common and personal goals creates a rich and engaging experience, making it a standout in the cooperative game genre. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking light, casual gameplay due to its complex mechanics and emotional intensity.

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