Decathlon (1972) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Decathlon is a classic board game released in 1972 that simulates the experience of competing in the Olympic decathlon. Designed by Richard Cohen, Elliott Denman, and Thomas N. Shaw, the game has players rolling dice to determine the outcomes of various track and field events.

Game Components of Decathlon

Play Board: The central game board where players track their progress.

7 Player Charts: Each chart features a profile of a great decathlete, including Jim Thorpe and Bob Matthias.

Game Pieces: Tokens or markers to represent each player.

Event Cards: Cards for each of the ten decathlon events.

Score Sheets: For tracking points earned in each event.

How To Setup Decathlon

To set up the game, players first choose their decathlete and place their game piece on the starting position on the play board. Each player receives their respective player chart, which outlines their strengths and weaknesses in each of the ten events. The event cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. Score sheets are distributed to track the points earned during the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Event Simulation: Players participate in simulations of the ten decathlon events (100 meters, long jump, shot put, high jump, 400 meters, 110 meters hurdles, discus throw, pole vault, javelin throw, and 1500 meters).

Point System: Points are awarded based on performance in each event, with the goal of accumulating the highest total score.

Strategic Decision-Making: Players must strategize to maximize their points, considering their decathlete’s strengths and weaknesses.

Competition: Players compete against each other to achieve the highest overall score.

Player Experience

Playing Decathlon (1972) immerses players in the world of track and field, requiring a blend of strategy and luck. The game is engaging for sports enthusiasts and those who enjoy competitive board games. Players experience the thrill of competing in multiple athletic events, making tactical decisions to outperform their opponents.

Pros

Educational Value: Teaches players about the various events of the decathlon.

Strategic Depth: Requires players to strategize based on their decathlete’s strengths.

Competitive Fun: Encourages healthy competition among players.

Historical Significance: Features legendary decathletes, adding a historical and nostalgic element.

Cons

Complexity: The game may be complex for younger or casual players due to the variety of events and scoring system.

Outdated Mechanics: The game’s mechanics and components may feel outdated compared to modern board games.

Limited Replayability: Once players are familiar with the events and their decathlete’s abilities, the game might lose some of its appeal.

Personal Thoughts on Decathlon

Decathlon (1972) is ideal for sports enthusiasts, history buffs, and those who enjoy classic board games. It offers a unique blend of strategy and competition that makes it a memorable experience. However, it may not appeal to players seeking modern game mechanics or high replayability. This game is a great addition to any collection for those who appreciate the nostalgia and educational value of simulating Olympic events.

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