Squashed (2013) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Squashed is an abstract strategy board game released in 2013 by PlaSmart. It is designed for 2-4 players aged 6 and up, with a quick runtime of 5-10 minutes per game. The game features player elimination and roll/spin and move mechanics, making for a fast-paced and engaging gameplay experience.

Game Components of Squashed

Game cube

One king piece

16 pawns (4 of each of the 4 colors)

One die

Squash pad (a felt pad to prevent the game cube from moving during play)

How To Setup Squashed

To set up Squashed, place all pawns on designated starting points on the four sides of the cube. Position the king piece at the center of the top of the cube. Each player selects their set of pawns, and the squash pad is placed under the game cube to stabilize it, though it is optional.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Roll and Move: Players roll the die and move any of their four pawns the amount shown on the die.

Squashing Opponents: If a player lands on or moves over an opponent’s piece, they squash that piece, removing it from the game.

Cube Rotation: When a player reaches the king piece, they can rotate the cube, squashing all pieces on the side that faces down.

Objective: The goal is to be the last player with pawns remaining on the cube.

Player Experience

Squashed is a fun and competitive game that teaches problem-solving and strategy. Initially, the instructions might seem overwhelming, but after a practice round, the game becomes easy to grasp. Players enjoy the strategic element of deciding whether to risk squashing their own pawns to eliminate opponents. The game is suitable for families and is recommended for children aged 6 and up.

Pros

3D Strategy: Encourages thinking in three dimensions.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for 2-4 players, making it a great family game.

Portable: All components fit neatly inside the cube, making it easy to store and transport.

Educational: Teaches problem-solving and strategic thinking.

Cons

Initial Complexity: Instructions can be confusing at first.

Difficulty for Young Children: Little hands may have trouble removing pawns from the cube.

Personal Thoughts on Squashed

Squashed is an excellent choice for families looking for a game that combines fun and strategy. It is particularly appealing to children who enjoy competitive games with a physical element. The game’s ability to teach strategic thinking makes it a valuable addition to any family’s game collection. However, it may not be the best fit for very young children due to the potential difficulty in handling the pawns. Overall, Squashed is a great option for families with children aged 6 and above.

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