Krakatoa (1983) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Krakatoa is a board game that was first released in in 1983. The game is designed for 2-4 players and has a runtime of about 45 minutes. It falls under the category of Action/Dexterity and utilizes dice rolling as its main mechanism. The game is suitable for players aged 8 and above and was designed by Andrew Long.

Game Components of Krakatoa

9 twelve-sided dice, divided into three sets of three, colored white (steam), grey (ash), and black (lava).

Each die face contains colored dots: yellow, red, or blue, instead of numbers.

How To Setup Krakatoa

To set up Krakatoa, players simply need to place the nine 12-sided dice on the table. The game does not require a complex board or additional components beyond the dice. Each player takes turns rolling the dice, and the game is ready to start once the dice are in place.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Duration: The game lasts six rounds, with each player taking five successive rolls of the dice per round.

Rolling Mechanic: After the first roll of each round, the player must pick up a specific set of dice (steam, ash, or lava) and roll them again, striking at least one of the dice still on the table.

Scoring: Players receive points for different combinations of colored dots, such as a set showing all yellow sides for ten points.

Strategy: Players aim to achieve certain target scores and scoring combinations to earn large bonuses.

Player Experience

Krakatoa is a game that requires precision and skill in dice rolling. It appeals to players who enjoy action and dexterity challenges. The game is relatively simple to learn but can be complex to master, especially when aiming for specific scoring combinations. The game is suitable for players aged 8 and above and can be played with 2 to 4 players.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: Uses 12-sided dice with colored dots instead of numbers, offering a unique gameplay experience.

Skill-Based: Requires precision and skill in rolling the dice, making it engaging for players who enjoy dexterity challenges.

Simple to Learn: Easy to understand the basic rules, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

Cons

Out of Print: The game is currently out of print, making it difficult to find.

Limited Strategy: While strategy is involved, the game may lack depth for some players looking for more complex gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on Krakatoa

Krakatoa is ideal for players who enjoy action and dexterity games and are looking for something unique. It is a great choice for families or casual gaming groups, as it is easy to learn and can be played in about 45 minutes. However, for players seeking deeper strategic gameplay, Krakatoa might not be the best fit. Despite being out of print, it remains a fascinating and challenging game for those who can find it.

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