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PARKS Memories: Plains Walker (2021) Board Game

ByMichail

PARKS Memories: Plains Walker is a board game released in 2021 as a part of the PARKS Memories series, inspired by the Fifty-Nine Parks Print Series. The game focuses on memory and travel, allowing players to explore the beauty of national parks through gameplay.

Game Components of PARKS Memories: Plains Walker

  • 9 Park Tiles arranged in a 3×3 grid
  • 4 Ability Tiles per player
  • Hiker token
  • Thick punchboard park tiles
  • Beautiful artwork featuring US National Parks

    How To Setup PARKS Memories: Plains Walker

    To set up the game, start by shuffling the park tiles and creating a 3×3 grid. Place the remaining tiles into three equal stacks behind the grid. Each player receives a set of 4 ability tiles, face-down. The Hiker token is placed nearby. This setup is quick and straightforward, preparing the game for immediate play.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Objective:** Be the first player to collect three pairs of the same park tile.
  • Reveal Tiles:** Flip over two face-down tiles per turn.
  • Match and Activate Abilities:** If the symbols on the revealed tiles match, the corresponding ability can be activated immediately.
  • Take a Tile:** Choose one of the revealed tiles to add to your supply.
  • Block Tiles:** Use the Hiker token to block tiles, preventing other players from accessing them.
  • Refill Grid:** Fill holes in the grid with tiles from the stacks.

    Player Experience

    PARKS Memories: Plains Walker offers a simple yet strategic gameplay experience. While it retains the core memory matching mechanic, it introduces player abilities and the Hiker token to add a layer of strategy. The game is quick, lasting about 30 minutes, and is suitable for 2-8 players. However, the game’s reliance on luck and the limited grid size can make it feel somewhat repetitive and less engaging for experienced gamers.

    Pros

  • Easy to Learn:** Simple rules make it accessible to a wide range of players.
  • Great Production Values:** High-quality components and beautiful artwork from the PARKS series.
  • Strategic Twist:** Player abilities add a layer of strategy beyond traditional memory matching.
  • Portable:** The game is compact and easy to travel with.

    Cons

  • Luck of the Draw:** The outcome can be significantly influenced by the tiles drawn.
  • Limited Grid Size:** The 3×3 grid can feel restrictive, especially with fewer players.
  • Player Abilities:** While present, the abilities are not particularly exciting or game-changing.

    Personal Thoughts on PARKS Memories: Plains Walker

    PARKS Memories: Plains Walker is ideal for families or casual gamers looking for a quick, visually appealing game. While it attempts to add a new spin to the classic memory match game, it may not be engaging enough for experienced gamers. The beautiful artwork and high-quality components make it a great option for those who enjoy the PARKS series or are fans of national parks. However, if you’re seeking a more complex or strategic game, you might find it lacking.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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