Lost Worlds (1983) Board Game

Lost Worlds is a two-player combat game that was first released in in 1983. Designed by a team of 29 people including Ed Arrowsmith, Kelly Bennett, and Tim Calhoun, the game features fantasy elements and medieval themes. Players take on the role of characters with unique abilities and engage in battles using a Rock-Paper-Scissors mechanic.

Game Components of Lost Worlds

Visual Combat Books: Each player chooses a character book.

Character Sheets: List the various combat actions a character can take.

Magic, Tactics, and Luck Cards: Some characters have access to these cards.

Special Abilities: Certain characters can regenerate, use magic spells, infect opponents with poison or disease, or fly.

How To Setup Lost Worlds

To set up the game, each player selects a character and removes the character sheet from their book, handing the book to their opponent. This setup ensures that each player views the combat from a first-person perspective.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Two-Player Game: Requires at least two players.

Secret Action Selection: Players secretly choose an action from their character sheet.

Simultaneous Reveal: Players reveal their actions simultaneously.

Cross-Reference: Use the character sheet to determine the outcome of the actions.

Hit Points: The goal is to reduce the opponent’s hit points to zero.

Special Abilities: Characters have unique abilities like regeneration, magic spells, and flight.

Magic, Tactics, and Luck: Use cards to influence combat outcomes.

Player Experience

Playing Lost Worlds is an entertaining and fast-paced experience. The game is easy to learn, with a simple yet engaging mechanism that makes it accessible to a wide range of players. However, it has been noted for its limited replayability and high cost relative to the playtime it offers.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Can be learned in just a couple of minutes.

Original and Innovative: Unique visual combat system.

Fast-Paced: Quick and entertaining gameplay.

Awards: Won the Charles Roberts/Origins Award for Best Fantasy Boardgame of 1983.

Cons

Limited Replayability: Not designed for sustained interest.

Expensive: High cost compared to playtime.

Short Play Sessions: Games are typically short.

Personal Thoughts on Lost Worlds

Lost Worlds is ideal for those looking for a quick, fun, and visually engaging combat game. It’s perfect for taking to conventions or playing in short intervals, but it may not satisfy players seeking a game with deep strategy or long-term engagement. The game’s unique mechanics and easy learning curve make it a great addition to any board game collection, especially for fans of fantasy combat scenarios.

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