Aggravation
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Aggravation (1962)

ByMichail

Aggravation

Aggravation is a board game for up to four players, and later versions for up to six players, whose object is to be the first player to have all four playing pieces (usually represented by marbles) reach the player’s home section of the board. The game’s name comes from the action of capturing an opponent’s piece by landing on its space, which is known as “aggravating”. The name was coined by one of the creators, Lois Elaine, who did not always enjoy defeat. The game was first created by BERL Industries in 1962 and sold for just one penny in royalties per game. The children and grandchildren of the game’s original creators still possess the rights to all game boards and sales. Aggravation is a variation of the Indian game Pachisi, which was popular in India around the time the global calendar moved from B.C. to A.D. Pachisi boards also consist of a cross-shaped path that players need to navigate to arrive at their final destination.

Why is Aggravation Popular?

Aggravation is a classic board game that has been enjoyed by families for generations. It is easy to learn and play, making it a great choice for all ages. The game’s simple mechanics and competitive nature make it a fun and engaging experience for players of all skill levels.

Game Components of Aggravation

  • Game board with a cross-shaped or six-armed track
  • Marbles (usually 4 per player)
  • Six-sided die
  • Player bases and home sections

    How To Setup Aggravation

    To set up the game, each player places their marbles in their designated base area. The order of play is determined by rolling the die, with the highest number going first. The game board is placed in the middle, ready for play.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective:** Be the first player to move all your marbles to your home section.
  • Player Turns:** Roll a single die to determine the number of spaces to move a marble.
  • Aggravation:** Landing on a space occupied by an opponent’s marble sends that marble back to the opponent’s base.
  • Protected Spaces:** Marbles in the home or base areas are safe from aggravation.
  • Special Rolls:** Rolling a 6 allows for an additional roll.
  • Team Play:** Players cannot land on or pass their partner’s marbles if playing in teams.

    Player Experience

    Aggravation offers a mix of strategy and probability, making it engaging for players of all ages. The game’s simple yet competitive nature ensures that each turn is filled with anticipation and a bit of luck. The mechanic of “aggravating” opponents adds a fun element of interaction, making the game more dynamic.

    Pros

  • Family-Friendly:** Suitable for players aged 6 and above.
  • Social Interaction:** Encourages competitive and fun interactions among players.
  • Simple to Learn:** Easy rules make it accessible to new players.
  • Replay Value:** The element of chance ensures different outcomes each time.

    Cons

  • Luck-Dependent:** The game relies heavily on dice rolls, which can be frustrating for some players.
  • Limited Strategy:** While there is some strategy, the game is largely based on chance.
  • Components:** Older versions may have worn-out or lost components over time.

    Personal Thoughts on Aggravation

    Aggravation is a classic board game that is perfect for family game nights or casual gatherings with friends. It is ideal for those who enjoy simple, easy-to-learn games with a touch of competition and luck. While it may not appeal to hardcore strategists, it provides a fun and light-hearted experience for most players. If you’re looking for a game that’s easy to pick up and can be enjoyed by a wide range of ages, Aggravation is a great choice.

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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