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Raptor (2015) Board Game

ByMichail

Raptor is a two-player board game that was released in 2015 by designers Bruno Cathala and Bruno Faidutti. Set in a world where scientists are trying to capture and study a family of velociraptors, players take on the roles of either the scientists or the raptors in a strategic battle for survival. With stunning artwork by Vincent Dutrait, Raptor combines elements of animals, fighting, and science fiction into a fast-paced and intense gaming experience.

Game Components of Raptor

  • Game board
  • Scientist and raptor pawns
  • Action cards for both scientists and raptors
  • Hostage tokens
  • Special action cards
  • Player aids

    How To Setup Raptor

    To set up Raptor, players first lay out the game board, which represents a research facility. The scientist player places their pawns on designated starting locations, while the raptor player sets up the Mother and baby raptors. Each player receives a set of action cards specific to their role. The hostage tokens are also placed on the board, representing the potential captives.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

    Gameplay Mechanics

  • Asymmetrical gameplay: One player controls the scientists, and the other controls the raptors.
  • Card-based actions: Players use their cards to move pawns, capture or evade capture, and perform special actions.
  • Hostage system: Scientists can capture baby raptors, while the Mother raptor can rescue them.

    Game Objective

  • Scientists:** Capture the baby raptors and escape the facility without being attacked by the Mother raptor.
  • Raptors:** Evade capture and ensure the baby raptors are safe, while trying to eliminate the scientists.

    Player Experience

    Raptor offers a strategic and engaging experience with each side having unique abilities and challenges. The game requires careful planning and tactical execution, as the balance between the two sides can shift quickly. The asymmetrical nature adds depth and replayability, as each side must adapt to the other’s strategies.

    Pros

  • Strategic Depth:** Both sides have complex strategies to master.
  • Replayability:** Different card draws and player choices ensure varied gameplay.
  • Thematic:** The game’s theme of dinosaurs vs. scientists is engaging and immersive.
  • Fast-Paced:** Games typically last around 30 minutes, making it a quick yet satisfying experience.

    Cons

  • Balance Issues:** Some players find the game slightly unbalanced, favoring one side over the other.
  • Limited Player Count:** Designed exclusively for two players.
  • Rules Complexity:** While not overly complex, the game requires a good understanding of the rules for optimal play.

    Personal Thoughts on Raptor

    Raptor is ideal for fans of asymmetrical games and those who enjoy strategic, two-player experiences. It is a great addition to any board game collection, offering a unique blend of theme and mechanics that will keep players engaged and coming back for more. However, due to its balance issues and limited player count, it may not be the best fit for everyone, especially those seeking games with larger player capacities.

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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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