A board game box labeled "Beasts of Balance" featuring colorful, stylized animal figures and icons indicating it's an app-connected game available on the App Store and Google Play.
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Beasts of Balance (2016)

ByMichail

Beasts of Balance

Beasts of Balance is a dexterity tabletop game that is played alongside a companion app for iOS and Android. The game was developed by Sensible Object and released in November 2016. Originally titled Fabulous Beasts, the game had to be renamed following a trademark dispute with Warner Bros. over their Fantastic Beasts film. The game was partly funded through a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign, raising £168,360 towards the game’s development in February 2016.

Why is Beasts of Balance Popular?

Beasts of Balance is popular because it is a unique and innovative game that combines physical and digital gameplay. The game has won several awards, including the 2018 TOTY (Toy of the Year) award for Innovative Toy of the Year. It is also significant because it encourages players to work together to build a tower of animals and help them evolve in a connected digital world.

Game Components of Beasts of Balance

  • Base (Plinth):** The central platform that connects to the app via Bluetooth.
  • Creature Pieces:** 6 different animals (2 air, 2 land, 2 water) with various shapes and colors.
  • Element Artefacts:** Air, earth, and water pieces to feed and support the creatures.
  • Function Artefacts:** Pieces for migrating, crossbreeding, and other special actions.
  • App:** Available for iOS, Android, and smart TVs, which integrates with the physical pieces to create a digital world.
  • Playmat:** Optional, but adds a visually appealing surface for gameplay.

    How To Setup Beasts of Balance

    To set up Beasts of Balance, download and install the app on your device. Insert batteries into the plinth, and ensure it is connected to your device via Bluetooth. The game comes with an in-app mini tutorial that guides you through the basics, making it easy to get started without needing to read extensive instructions. Simply place the first piece on the plinth, and the app will animate the corresponding creature in the digital world.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Stacking:** Players stack creature and element pieces onto the plinth.
  • Digital Integration:** The app reacts to each piece added, showing animations and interactions in the digital world.
  • Creature Management:** Feed, migrate, and crossbreed creatures to keep them alive and earn points.
  • Ecosystem Balance:** Manage the energy levels of creatures to prevent them from losing stars (health).
  • Game End:** The game ends when the pieces fall over, triggering a volcano eruption; players have a short time to rebuild and save the world.
  • Scoring:** Earn points by creating and caring for creatures, with the goal of achieving the highest score possible.

    Player Experience

    Beasts of Balance offers a highly engaging and immersive experience, especially for families and children. The combination of physical stacking and digital animation captures the imagination, encouraging teamwork and strategy. Players enjoy discovering new creatures and managing their digital ecosystem. The game is suitable for ages 7+ but is enjoyable for adults as well, thanks to its unique blend of dexterity and strategic thinking.

    Pros

  • Unique Hybrid Experience:** Combines physical and digital elements in a compelling way.
  • Immersive Gameplay:** Engaging visuals and sounds from the app enhance the game experience.
  • Encourages Teamwork:** Collaborative gameplay fosters teamwork and strategy.
  • High-Quality Components:** Durable and well-designed pieces ensure long-lasting gameplay.
  • Constant Discovery:** New creatures and interactions keep the game fresh and exciting.

    Cons

  • Expensive:** The game is on the higher end of the price spectrum for board games.
  • Limited Cooperative Experience:** Cooperative gameplay can be less engaging, with players often arguing over turns.
  • Short Rebuild Time:** The time to rebuild after a collapse is limited, which can be frustrating for younger players.

    Personal Thoughts on Beasts of Balance

    Beasts of Balance is ideal for families and individuals who enjoy innovative, interactive games. It is particularly suited for children aged 7 and above, as it promotes physical play, teamwork, and strategic thinking. However, adults will also find the game engaging due to its unique mechanics and the joy of discovering new creatures. If you’re looking for a game that seamlessly blends the physical and digital, Beasts of Balance is an excellent choice, despite its higher price point.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl