Squelch! (1989) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Squelch! is a card game released in 1989 by Games Workshop Ltd. It is a fantasy-themed game that involves players using open drafting, pattern recognition, and tile placement mechanics to outwit their opponents and emerge victorious.

Game Components of Squelch!

Tiles representing the entrance of the squiggly cave

Squiggly Beast tiles with color-coded sides

Gobbo (Goblin) tiles to protect Squiggly Beasts

Troll tiles to squish Squiggly Beasts

Terrible Troll tiles

Heroic Gobbo tiles

A tape with the song “Squelching Time for Squiggly Beasts” (included in some versions).

How To Setup Squelch!

To set up the game, each player starts with a tile for the entrance of their squiggly cave. Players then draw tiles from the deck to begin constructing their cave complex.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Tile Laying: Players draw and place tiles to expand their cave.

Color Matching: Squiggly Beast tiles must match the colors on the side of the previously played tile and be placed right side up.

Troll Mechanic: Troll tiles are played in an opponent’s cave, squishing all Squiggly Beasts until a Gobbo is encountered.

Terrible Troll: Triggers a mad dash for Heroic Gobbo tiles to protect the cave.

Game End: The game ends when the deck of tiles runs out; the player with the most un-squelched Squiggly Beasts wins.

Player Experience

Squelch is a game that heavily relies on random luck, similar to Candyland. The gameplay is relatively straightforward but lacks significant decision-making, as most tiles have only one possible place to be played. However, the game can be made more engaging by introducing house rules, such as giving each player a hand of tiles to choose from, which adds a layer of strategy.

Pros

Easy to Understand: No reading is required, making it accessible to younger children (ages 3 or 4 and up).

Simple Setup: Quick and easy to set up.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for playing with children.

Cons

Random Luck: The game outcome is largely determined by the shuffle of the tiles.

Limited Decision-Making: Most turns involve only one possible action.

Missed Turns: Sometimes, a drawn tile may not fit, causing the player to miss their turn.

Personal Thoughts on Squelch!

Squelch is ideal for families with young children due to its simplicity and lack of reading requirements. However, for older players or those seeking more strategic depth, the game might be too simplistic. With some house rule adjustments, it can become a more engaging experience. Despite its flaws, it remains a nostalgic and entertaining option for those who enjoy Games Workshop’s earlier creations.

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