PowerShot Soccer is a tabletop soccer board game that was released in in 2006. Designed by Alvin Gan, this game is perfect for soccer enthusiasts looking to bring the excitement of the sport into their living rooms. With a runtime of around 20 minutes, PowerShot Soccer is a fast-paced game that can be enjoyed by players aged 8 and above.
Game Components of PowerShot Soccer
Cards: Each player starts with a deck containing six basic types (Pass, Dribble, Shoot, Tackle, Intercept, and Save) with numbers ranging from 1 to 8, and four special types (Long Range Shot, Star Player, Cross, and Fancy Footwork).Scoreboard Cards: Cards representing a scoreboard are placed on the table to track the game’s progress.
How To Setup PowerShot Soccer
To set up the game, players place the scoreboard cards on the table and shuffle their decks. Each player draws eleven cards into their hand. The player with the higher number on the top card of their deck begins the game as the attacker.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Player Turn: The attacker plays a Possession card (Pass or Dribble), which the defender must counter with a corresponding defense card (Tackle or Intercept) of equal or higher number. If the defense card equals the Possession card, the attack is stopped. If the defense card is higher, the defender becomes the attacker.Additional Possession Cards: The attacker can play additional Possession cards, each adding +2 to the shot power if they are not blocked.Special Cards: Special cards like Star Player, Cross, and Long Range Shot have unique abilities. For example, the Star Player card can be used as any basic card, and the Cross card adds +2 to the shot power if played before a Shoot card.Game Objective: The player must play two successful Possession cards before attempting a shot. If the shot is not blocked by a Save card, the attacker scores a goal. The game consists of two halves, and the player with the most goals at the end wins.
Player Experience
PowerShot Soccer offers a fast-paced and strategic experience, mimicking the back-and-forth nature of soccer. Players need to carefully manage their cards, using the right combinations to outmaneuver their opponent. The game requires a mix of luck and strategy, making each match engaging and unpredictable.
Pros
Engaging Gameplay: The game captures the thrill of soccer with its dynamic cardplay mechanics.Strategic Depth: Players need to strategize their card plays to succeed.Portable: The game is compact and easy to carry.Quick Matches: Games are relatively short, making it easy to fit in multiple matches in a short time.
Cons
Complexity in Rules: New players may find it confusing to remember which cards counter which, especially the special cards.Limited Player Count: The game is designed for two players only.
Personal Thoughts on PowerShot Soccer
PowerShot Soccer is ideal for soccer enthusiasts and fans of strategic card games. It’s a great option for those looking for a quick, competitive game that can be played in a short amount of time. The game’s simplicity in setup and components makes it accessible, while the depth in gameplay mechanics keeps it engaging and challenging. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking a game for larger groups or those who prefer simpler rules.
We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.
