Hero Hockey (2021) Board Game

Hero Hockey is a fast-paced action/dexterity sports game designed by Kenny Kiernan and released in in 2021. The game is designed for 2 players and is suitable for ages 5 and up. With a playing time of 10-15 minutes, Hero Hockey offers a quick and exciting gaming experience for players of all ages.

Game Components of Hero Hockey

2 magnetic hero avatars (each split into two pieces: a magnetized character and a magnetized stick)

1 plastic arena

2 balls (instead of pucks)

Score track on the table

How To Setup Hero Hockey

To set up Hero Hockey, players need to assemble the plastic arena, place the magnetic hero avatars on top, and position the corresponding magnetic sticks underneath the board. Each player chooses a hero and places it on their side of the arena. The game starts with one player moving the ball into one of the corners of their side and hitting it into play.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics: Magnetic dexterity, skill shots, precision accuracy.

Game Objective: The first player to score 6 points wins.

Scoring Methods:
– Hit the ball into the opponent’s circular goal.
– Get your own pusher to fall into your own goal.
– Cause your opponent’s pusher and controlled magnet to become detached.

Player Experience

Hero Hockey is designed for quick, competitive matches, making it appealing for both kids and adults. However, the game’s simplicity and the use of a ball instead of a puck can make it feel less authentic. The magnetic control system can be tricky, especially during fast-paced gameplay, leading to frequent technical scores. Despite this, the game remains addictive, with many players enjoying multiple games in a row.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple, straightforward rules make it accessible to players of all ages.

Portable: The game is lightweight and easy to set up on any flat surface.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for kids as young as 5, and enjoyable for adults as well.

Space-Efficient: The game board can be taken apart for easy storage.

Addictive Gameplay: Players often want to play multiple games in a row.

Cons

Magnetic Control Issues: The magnetized halves of each hero do not stay together well during fast exchanges.

Too Fast: Games can end quickly, making the experience feel brief.

Lack of Variety: Only 2 heroes and no additional arena overlays or game modes.

Component Design: The use of a ball instead of a puck and a bat-like stick can be off-putting.

Stability Issues: The plastic components can make the game unstable, requiring players to hold the base to keep it steady.

Personal Thoughts on Hero Hockey

Hero Hockey is a great option for families with young children who are looking for a fun, interactive game. While it may not offer the depth or variety that some adults might prefer, its simplicity and addictive nature make it an excellent choice for kids. The game’s portability and ease of setup add to its appeal, making it a solid choice for family game nights or travel. However, for those seeking a more complex or authentic hockey experience, this might not be the best fit.

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