Backpacks & Blisters (Second Edition) (2017) Board Game

Backpacks & Blisters (Second Edition) is a board game released in 2017 that combines elements of exploration and racing. Designed by Marco Primo and featuring artwork by Ragnar Brothers, this game is suitable for 1 to 6 players aged 14 and above. The game involves hand management, network and route building, and point-to-point movement mechanics.

Game Components of Backpacks & Blisters

Map: A linen ‘tea-towel’ map of the Lake District.

Cards: A deck of laminated cards, including blister cards and movement aids.

Pawns: Plastic pawns for player movement.

Counters: Several sheets of cardboard counters.

Bus and Ferry Routes: Special routes to aid movement.

Chocolate Bars: Items that help speed up player movement.

How To Setup Backpacks & Blisters

To set up the game, first lay out the linen map of the Lake District. Each player chooses a plastic pawn and places it at the starting point on the map. Shuffle the deck of laminated cards and deal four cards to each player. Ensure all counters, bus and ferry routes, and chocolate bars are within reach of all players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Family, Travel.

Mechanics: Hand Management.

Number of Players: 3 to 6.

Age Range: 10 and up.

Game Duration: Approximately 45 minutes.

Objective: Players aim to visit as many cafes, scenic views, and beauty spots as possible within the allotted time.

Movement: Players manage their cards to move efficiently over the map. As the game progresses, players ‘tire’ and move more slowly as their hand size decreases.

Hindrances: Blister cards hinder movement, while heavy rucksacks slow players down.

Aids: Bus and ferry routes, and chocolate bars help speed up movement.

Player Experience

Playing **Backpacks & Blisters** is a delightful and challenging experience, especially for those who enjoy strategic planning and a bit of friendly competition. The game’s setting in the beautiful Lake District adds a charming element, making players feel as though they are exploring a real-world location. The hand management mechanic requires players to think ahead and optimize their card usage, which can be both engaging and rewarding.

Pros

Scenic Theme: The game’s setting in the Lake District is visually appealing and immersive.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 10 and up, making it a great game for family gatherings.

Strategic Depth: The hand management mechanic adds a layer of strategy that keeps players engaged.

Variety of Aids and Hindrances: Elements like bus and ferry routes, chocolate bars, and blister cards add variety to the gameplay.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed for 3 to 6 players, which may not be ideal for larger or smaller groups.

Complex Setup: While not overly complex, the setup requires some time and organization.

Luck Factor: The draw of cards can introduce an element of luck, which might affect player performance.

Personal Thoughts on Backpacks & Blisters

**Backpacks & Blisters** is perfect for families or groups of friends looking for a light-hearted yet strategically engaging game. It’s ideal for those who appreciate travel and exploration themes, and it offers a unique blend of challenge and fun. The game is well-suited for players who enjoy planning and optimizing their moves, and it provides a pleasant, relaxed gaming experience.

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