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Obsession (1977) Board Game

ByMichail

Obsession is a board game that was released in 1977 and designed for 2 players. It falls under the categories of Abstract Strategy and Dice games, and its gameplay involves dice rolling and a Roll/Spin and Move mechanic. The game has been endorsed by major players in the industry such as Joker, Marx Toys, and Mego Corp.

Game Components of Obsession

  • Board:** The game board features slides for the rings and a “Safety Zone”.
  • Rings:** 20 rings, 10 light-colored and 10 dark-colored, each numbered from 1 to 10.
  • Dice:** Two dice used for determining ring movements.
  • Slides:** Each ring has a corresponding slide on the board.

    How To Setup Obsession

    To set up the game, place all 20 rings into their proper slides on the board, with each ring in the “down” position. Players choose their color (light or dark). The order of play is determined by rolling the dice, with the highest roll starting the game.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Rolling Dice:** Players roll the dice to determine which rings to move.
  • Moving Rings:** Rings are moved from the “down” to the “up” position based on the numbers on the dice. For example, if you roll a “4” and a “3”, you can move the “4” and “3” rings up, or the “7” ring up.
  • Opponent’s Rings:** Players can move their opponent’s rings back to the “down” position using the same dice combinations.
  • Safety Zone:** Rings that remain in the “up” position at the end of a turn are placed in the “Safety Zone”. Players can return rings from the “Safety Zone” to the “up” position during their turn.
  • Winning the Game:** The first player to move all their rings to either the “up” position or the “Safety Zone” wins.
  • Scoring Version:** In the scoring version, points are awarded based on the rings left in the “down” position. The first player to reach a predetermined score (often 50 points) wins.

    Player Experience

    Obsession is a game that combines strategy with a dash of luck, making it engaging and challenging for players. The ability to move both your own and your opponent’s rings adds a tactical layer, requiring players to think ahead and manage risks. The “Safety Zone” mechanism introduces an element of strategic risk-taking, as players must decide whether to return vulnerable rings to the “up” position.

    Pros

  • Strategic Depth:** Combines elements of backgammon and Shut the Box, offering a rich strategic experience.
  • Interactive:** Players can directly impact their opponent’s progress.
  • Luck and Skill:** Balances luck from dice rolls with strategic skill.
  • Simple to Learn:** Easy setup and straightforward rules make it accessible to new players.

    Cons

  • Luck Factor:** The game can be influenced significantly by dice rolls, which may not appeal to players who prefer pure strategy.
  • Limited Player Count:** Designed for two players only.
  • Risk Management:** Managing the “Safety Zone” can be tricky and may lead to losses if not handled carefully.

    Personal Thoughts on Obsession

    Obsession is ideal for players who enjoy games that require a mix of strategy and luck. It is particularly suited for those who like head-to-head competition and are comfortable with the unpredictability of dice rolls. While it may not be the best fit for large groups or those seeking a purely strategic game, Obsession offers a fun and engaging experience for two players looking for a challenging and interactive game.

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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

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