Elixir (1987) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Elixir is a board game released in 1987 by Silver Bear Marketing Ltd., Tactical Studies Rules (TSR), and Three Wishes. It falls under the fantasy category and is designed for 2-4 players with a recommended age of 6 and above. The game features pick-up and deliver and set collection mechanics.

Game Components of Elixir

The Board: Features wizards’ labs, shops (Special Supplies, Herbalist, Jeweller), the Healer’s, a Blind Alley, and the street.

36 Potion Cards: Include parts of the Elixir of Life and other potions like Speedy Soda and Baneful Brew.

9 Formula Cards: Correspond to each potion, kept secret during setup.

36 Ingredient Cards: Herbs, special supplies, and gems.

12 Stranger Cards: Encounters on the street.

6 Red Potion Counters.

36 Gold Pieces.

4 Wizard Cards (large and small).

4 Card Stands.

Pad of 25 Formula Sheets.

1 Reference Card.

1 Six-Sided Die.

How To Setup Elixir

To set up Elixir, lay the board on a flat surface. Remove specified gold pieces from the bank and set them aside based on the number of players. Place the red potion counters near the bank. Shuffle and randomly place the Formula cards face down on the Formula Chart. Distribute the Ingredient cards to their respective shops. Shuffle the Potion and Stranger cards, removing some for two or three-player games. Each player rolls the die to determine who plays first.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: The first player to collect all three parts of the Elixir of Life wins.

Resource Collection: Players buy ingredients from shops and take them to their labs.

Experimentation: Players brew potions by combining ingredients and rolling the die to determine success or failure.

Strategic Movement: Players move around the board, encountering strangers who may help or hinder their progress.

Potion Creation: Successful brews can yield parts of the Elixir or other beneficial potions.

Player Experience

In Elixir, players take on the role of wizards racing to create the magical Elixir of Life. The game is filled with strategic decisions, from purchasing the right ingredients to experimenting with different combinations. The random encounters with strangers add an element of unpredictability, making each playthrough unique. Players must balance resource management with the need to experiment and take risks to uncover the secret formula.

Pros

Engaging Theme: The fantasy theme and quest for the Elixir of Life are engaging and immersive.

Strategic Depth: The game requires strategic thinking in resource management and experimentation.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for families and casual gamers.

Replayability: Random elements ensure a different experience each time.

Cons

Complex Setup: The setup process can be lengthy and involves several steps.

Luck Factor: The game includes a significant element of luck, especially in rolling the die for potion brewing.

Limited Player Interaction: Players primarily focus on their own goals with minimal direct interaction.

Personal Thoughts on Elixir

Elixir is a game that appeals to those who enjoy a mix of strategy and luck, particularly within a fantasy setting. It is suitable for families and casual gamers who are looking for a game that offers a fun, yet slightly challenging experience. However, it may not be ideal for players who prefer games with high player interaction or those who are frustrated by significant luck-based outcomes. Overall, Elixir is a vintage game that still offers an enjoyable and unique gaming experience.

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