Subbuteo Cricket (1949) Board Game

Subbuteo Cricket is a tabletop board game released in 1949 by Subbuteo Sports Games, LTD. It is designed for two players and falls under the category of action/dexterity, collectible components, and sports games. The game is centered around the sport of cricket and utilizes finger flicking mechanics to simulate the action on the pitch.

Game Components of Subbuteo Cricket

Figures: Initially made of paper card, later replaced by 00 scale plastic figures, except for the celluloid flat bowler figure.

Ball: A small metal ball-bearing.

Playing Field: A large green sheet or carpet with demarcations for the pitch and run zones.

Equipment: Spring-loading bowling mechanism, miniature wooden bat, wickets, back-stops.

Accessories: Various sets including Display, Club, and Test Match Editions, as well as additional items like spectators, groundsmen, scoreboard, and sight screens.

How To Setup Subbuteo Cricket

To set up Subbuteo Cricket, lay out the green playing field on a table. Place the spring-loading bowling mechanism at one end and the batsman with the miniature wooden bat at the other. Position the wickets and back-stops accordingly. Arrange the fielders, represented by miniature statuettes, around the playing field. Ensure the run zones are clearly marked on the playing carpet.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Score more runs than the opposing team by hitting the ball into designated run zones.

Gameplay:

Bowling: The bowler pre-sets the location and releases the ball using the spring-loading mechanism.

Batting: The batsman pre-sets the angle and position of the bat and controls the power and timing of the shot.

Scoring: Runs are scored by hitting the ball into marked zones (1, 2, 3, or 4 runs).

Outs: Batsmen can get out by being bowled, caught by hitting the ball near fielders, or other cricket-related ways.

Penalties: Wide balls are penalized with 4 runs to the batting team.

Player Experience

Subbuteo Cricket offers a nostalgic and engaging tabletop experience, allowing players to mimic the strategies and excitement of real cricket. The game’s mechanics, such as controlling the angle and power of shots, add a layer of complexity and realism. Players can create their own cricket scenarios, from casual matches to more competitive tournaments.

Pros

Realistic Mechanics: Allows for detailed control over shots and bowling.

Customizable: Various accessories and sets available for enhanced gameplay.

Nostalgic Value: A classic game that many players remember fondly from their childhood.

Community: Active collector and player communities with social media groups and competitions.

Cons

Complex Setup: Requires careful arrangement of the playing field and figures.

Limited Team Variety: Originally had fewer teams compared to Subbuteo football, which affected its popularity.

Discontinued: The main cricket range was discontinued in the 1980s, though it still has a dedicated following.

Personal Thoughts on Subbuteo Cricket

Subbuteo Cricket is ideal for cricket enthusiasts, collectors of vintage tabletop games, and families looking for a fun and interactive way to enjoy the sport. Despite its initial commercial struggles and eventual discontinuation, the game has maintained a loyal fan base and continues to be enjoyed through various social media groups, leagues, and competitions. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of tabletop cricket and the creative genius of Peter Adolph.

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