Ripple Rush (2020) Board Game

Ripple Rush is a number-based board game designed by Justine Nortjé and published in 2020 by an unknown publisher. The game is targeted towards players aged 14 and above and can accommodate 1 to 5 players.

Game Components of Ripple Rush

100 cards

Player sheets

Goal Cards

Rulebook

How To Setup Ripple Rush

Setting up Ripple Rush is straightforward. Shuffle the deck and create a stack of cards based on the number of players: 100 cards for 5 players, 80 cards for 4 players, 60 cards for 3 players, 40 cards for 2 players, and 20 cards for 1 player. Each player receives a player sheet, and optionally, two Goal Cards can be revealed to add an extra layer of challenge.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Simultaneous Turns: Players draw and reveal a card, announcing its value.

Number Placement: Players can add the number to any spot in the column of the same color, provided it is greater than every number below it and less than every number above it.

Forced Pass: If a player cannot place their number, they announce it, and other players can place it in their own columns.

Row Completion: Completing a row unlocks a row bonus, such as writing a number in any column or choosing any number for a specific color column.

Scoring: Players score one point per number in their largest contiguous run in each column.

Advanced Game: Completing Goal Cards can earn up to 6 additional points.

Player Experience

Ripple Rush is known for its simplicity and speed. The game is easy to learn, with players quickly grasping the mechanic of placing numbers in ascending order within color-coded columns. However, the game’s depth lies in its strategic complexity, especially as players must manage limited card draws and leverage bonuses effectively to fill gaps in their columns. It’s a game that requires careful planning and a bit of luck.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple and intuitive gameplay mechanics.

Portable: Part of the small-box roll-and-write family, making it very portable.

Quick Gameplay: Games are relatively short and can be completed quickly.

Strategic Depth: Despite its simplicity, the game offers a good level of strategic complexity.

Cons

Luck Dependence: The game can be heavily influenced by the cards drawn.

Frustration Factor: Players may find themselves unable to place numbers, leading to frustration.

Overestimation: Players often overestimate their ability to get the needed cards later in the game.

Personal Thoughts on Ripple Rush

Ripple Rush is a great game for those who enjoy roll-and-write mechanics and are looking for a quick, strategic challenge. It’s ideal for fans of games like Qwinto or Qwingo, but with a unique twist that requires careful planning and adaptability. The game is suitable for players who enjoy a mix of luck and strategy and are comfortable with the potential for unexpected turns. However, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer games with more control over outcomes or those who get frustrated easily by random elements.

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