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Zar (1981) Board Game

ByMichail

Zar is a classic card game that was released in 1981 by designer Lynn Dalton. The game is suitable for 2-8 players, with the best experience being for 4 players. It has a runtime of around 30 minutes and is suitable for players aged 6 and above. The game features artwork by Daltoons Productions and falls under the category of card games.

Game Components of Zar

  • 9 pieces** for each player, often represented by pebbles, bits of verr dung, or sticks.
  • Game board** resembling the Kaissa board, with intersections of lines where pieces are placed.
  • No capturing** mechanism; pieces move or jump to unoccupied intersections.

    How To Setup Zar

    To set up Zar, each player places their nine pieces on the intersections of the nine interior vertical lines with the rear horizontal line of the board, from their perspective. The corners of the board are not used initially but are valid move points once the game begins.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Movement: Pieces move one intersection at a time.
  • Jumping: Pieces can jump over either the opponent’s or their own pieces to an unoccupied intersection. Multiple jumps are permissible.
  • Objective: The goal is to effect a complete exchange of original placements. The first player to fully occupy the opponent’s initial position wins.

    Player Experience

    Zar is a game of strategy and maneuverability, requiring players to think critically about their moves and plan ahead. The game’s simplicity in rules contrasts with its depth in strategy, making it engaging for players who enjoy abstract strategy games.

    Pros

  • Deep Strategy: Despite simple rules, the game offers complex strategic play.
  • Quick Setup: Easy and fast to set up.
  • No Random Elements: Purely based on player decision-making.

    Cons

  • Limited Components: Basic game components might not appeal to players looking for more elaborate games.
  • Niche Theme: The game’s theme, based on the Gor series, might not be familiar or appealing to all players.

    Personal Thoughts on Zar

    Zar is ideal for fans of abstract strategy games and those familiar with the Gor series. It is a great choice for players who enjoy games like Chess or Checkers but are looking for something with a unique twist. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking games with more complex components or random elements.

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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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