The Crystal Maze (2018) Board Game

The Crystal Maze is a British game show that first aired in 1990, where teams of contestants navigate through different themed zones completing challenges to win crystals. The show was a hit and gained a cult following. In 2016, a crowdfunding campaign was launched to create a board game based on the show, which was released in 2018.

Game Components of The Crystal Maze

Large reversible board with Zone map and Crystal Dome

Four zone decks (Aztec, Industrial, Futuristic, Medieval)

Challenge cards (mental, mystery, skill, physical)

AILS cards for locking in players

Miniature plastic crystals

Artifact cards for treasure hunt

Sticky hands for the Crystal Dome finale

Rule books (one for Maze Master, one general)

App for sound effects and game timer (available on iOS and Android)

Various game pieces (dice, balls, etc.)

How To Setup The Crystal Maze

To set up the game, players need to decide on roles, with one person on each team acting as the Maze Master. The Maze Master helps in setting up each game and acts as a referee. The large board is placed with the Zone map side up, and the challenge cards are distributed across the four zones. Each zone has its own set of challenges, and the game pieces are prepared accordingly.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Team Structure: Two teams with one Maze Master per team.

Zone Challenges: Each zone contains four challenges (mental, mystery, skill, physical).

Crystal Collection: Successfully complete challenges to win crystals.

AILS Cards: Opposite team can play AILS cards to lock in players; teams can buy out locked players using crystals.

Treasure Hunt: Maze Master hides artifact cards with clues for players to find.

Crystal Dome Finale: Use sticky hands to collect gold tokens within a time limit; silver tokens deduct points.

App Integration: Use the app for sound effects and game timer.

Player Experience

The game offers a fun and varied experience, with a mix of mental and physical challenges that cater to different skills. A complete game takes around two hours. The game is easy enough for adults but still engaging, with well-varied mental puzzles and a treasure hunt style game. However, the physical challenges are somewhat lacking, feeling half-hearted compared to the original board game.

Pros

Varied Challenges: Mental, mystery, skill, and physical challenges keep the game engaging.

App Integration: Adds to the immersive experience with sound effects and timer.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 10+ and fun for families or friends.

Treasure Hunt: Engaging treasure hunt style game adds a unique twist.

Cons

Weak Physical Challenges: Physical games feel less innovative compared to the original.

Limited App Functionality: The app is basic and could offer more features.

Dependency on Mobile: Players need compatible mobile devices to use the app fully.

Personal Thoughts on The Crystal Maze

The Crystal Maze (2018) Board Game is ideal for families, friends, or fans of the TV show looking for a fun and interactive game night. While it may not be as challenging for adults, it provides a light-hearted and entertaining experience. The game’s varied challenges and treasure hunt elements make it a great addition to any game collection, despite some minor drawbacks in its physical challenges and app integration.

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