The Lucky Seven (2023) Board Game

The Lucky Seven is a card game that was released in 2023 by designer Jonathan Stroh. It is a solo game that falls under the categories of card game, modern warfare, print & play, puzzle, and wargame. The game features area movement, grid movement, solo/solitaire gameplay, and variable set-up.

Game Components of The Lucky Seven

52 professionally printed cards
– 8 squad members with unique double-sided art
– 28 threat cards
– 10 map cards
– 2 reference cards
– 4 mission cards

A tuck box for compact storage

A QR code card for accessing the rules online.

How To Setup The Lucky Seven

Setting up The Lucky Seven is straightforward and involves arranging the squad members on a grid. The cards determine the grid’s parameters and the order of soldier placement. Soldiers are shuffled and placed in a loose formation, with each soldier having a specific position. The eighth soldier’s placement triggers an initial ambush, marking the beginning of the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Solitaire Gameplay: Designed for single-player experiences.

Tactical Elements: Players must strategically move and position their squad to neutralize threats.

Randomness: Threat cards are randomly placed, and the grid setup introduces an element of chance.

Objective: The goal is to clear the landing zone of threats to allow for a helicopter evacuation. Players must manage their squad’s movements and actions to survive and complete the mission.

Player Experience

The Lucky Seven offers a gripping and intense experience, with each game being different due to the random placement of threat cards and the initial setup. Players need to look ahead and make the most of their options, utilizing the unique abilities of each squad member. The game is known for its brisk format, lasting about 10 minutes per session, and requires a mix of chance and skill to succeed. The game’s design ensures that even successful runs often incur casualties, adding a layer of realism and challenge.

Pros

Compact and Affordable: Easy to carry and store.

High Replayability: Random elements ensure each game is unique.

Quick Gameplay: Sessions last about 10 minutes.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and use of squad abilities.

Engaging Theme: Immersive war-themed setting with a compelling narrative.

Cons

Initial Learning Curve: Rules are not printed, but accessible via a QR code.

Dependence on Chance: Some outcomes are heavily influenced by randomness.

Potential for Frustration: The game can be quite challenging, with significant setbacks possible early on.

Personal Thoughts on The Lucky Seven

The Lucky Seven is ideal for fans of solitaire games and tactical puzzles. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy quick, intense experiences with a high level of replayability. The game’s compact design makes it perfect for on-the-go play, and its engaging theme and mechanics will appeal to anyone looking for a challenging and immersive solo gaming experience. However, players who prefer games with less randomness or those who are easily frustrated by setbacks might find this game less appealing.

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