Plague & Pestilence (1993) Board Game

Plague & Pestilence is a board game released in 1993, designed by Paul Dale. The game is set in a medieval world where players must navigate through various challenges related to diseases and disasters.

Game Components of Plague & Pestilence

70 Playing Cards

64 Population Cards

6 Prosperity/Plague Reference Cards

1 Cover Card

2 Special Dice (with a skull instead of the “1” pip)

Original Instructions

A two-piece plastic case.

How To Setup Plague & Pestilence

To set up the game, players first shuffle the deck and distribute the cards. Each player starts with a set of Population Cards, which represent the inhabitants of their medieval town. The Prosperity/Plague Reference Cards guide the phases of the game. The special dice, known as “Death Dice,” are used to determine various outcomes during the game. Players place their cards and dice on the table, ready to alternate between the Prosperity and Plague phases.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Prosperity Phase: Players build up their populations by stealing from other players or using improvements.

Plague Phase: Players attempt to kill off other players’ populations using war, pestilence, or other deadly attacks.

Card Play: Players use illustrated cards featuring medieval woodcuts, including the Grim Reaper.

Dice Rolling: The special “Death Dice” influence game events and outcomes.

Game Objective

The objective is to have the largest surviving population by the end of the game. Players must balance building their town during the Prosperity phase and defending against the plague in the Plague phase.

Player Experience

**Plague & Pestilence** offers a fun and light-hearted gaming experience with a touch of dark humor. Players engage in strategic card play and dice rolling, making it a game that is easy to pick up but challenging to master. The game’s medieval setting and illustrations add to its unique charm.

Pros

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

Quick Games: Games last between 15-45 minutes.

Social Interaction: Supports 2-6 players, encouraging social interaction and competition.

Historical Theme: Set in medieval Europe, adding a historical and thematic layer.

Cons

Out of Print: Originally published in 1993, it can be hard to find, though some used copies are available.

Limited Availability: The game is not widely available, making it a rare find for collectors.

Simple Mechanics: Some players might find the mechanics too simplistic.

Personal Thoughts on Plague & Pestilence

**Plague & Pestilence** is ideal for those who enjoy light, strategic card games with a historical twist. It’s a great choice for families or casual game nights, offering a blend of strategy and luck. However, serious gamers might find it too simplistic. The game’s unique theme and mechanics make it a delightful addition to any board game collection, especially for those interested in medieval history and dark humor.

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