Ghostbusters: Protect the Barrier Game (2016) Board Game

Ghostbusters: Protect the Barrier Game is a board game based on the popular Ghostbusters franchise. Released in 2016, this game allows players to take on the role of the Ghostbusters as they work together to protect the barrier from ghosts trying to break through.

Game Components of Ghostbusters: Protect the Barrier Game

Four different Ghostbusters figures representing the female cast of the reboot

Small white ghosts with bow ties

Larger transparent green “Rowan” ghosts

Rowan figure

Eight Paranormal Energy Devices (PED) markers

Battle dice

Movement dice

A deck of cards representing locations to spawn ghosts and other game mechanics

Ecto-1 figure

Mercado Building game board

How To Setup Ghostbusters: Protect the Barrier Game

To set up the game, players place the Mercado Building board in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a Ghostbuster figure and places it on the board. The Paranormal Energy Devices are distributed across various rooms in the building. The ghost cards and other game cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. The Rowan figure, if used, is placed according to the game mode selected.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative Play: Players work together to achieve the game’s objectives.

Ghost Battles: Players must battle and defeat ghosts using the battle dice.

Room Haunting: Ghosts can haunt rooms, and if six rooms become haunted simultaneously, the game is lost.

Paranormal Energy Devices: Players must collect all eight PEDs and place them in the Ecto-1 outside the building.

Game Modes:
– Basic Battle
– Basic Battle with Rowan
– Advanced Adventure
– Advanced Adventure with Rowan

Turn Sequence: Each turn involves rolling a die, drawing a card (unless a 6 is rolled), placing ghosts, moving the Ghostbuster pawn, busting ghosts, and picking up PEDs.

Player Experience

This game offers a fun and strategic experience, particularly suitable for families and young players. The cooperative nature of the game fosters teamwork and camaraderie among players. The game’s simplicity makes it easy to learn, yet the various game modes and the addition of Rowan as an unbeatable ghost add complexity and replay value.

Pros

Cooperative Play: Encourages teamwork and strategy.

Replay Value: Multiple game modes and the introduction of Rowan increase the game’s replayability.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 8 and up, making it a great family game.

Value for Money: Comes with a significant number of high-quality components at an affordable price.

Easy to Learn: Simple rules that become clear after a few turns.

Cons

Flimsy Packaging: The box could be more durable.

Complex Setup for Younger Players: While the game is easy to learn, the initial setup and understanding of all rules might be challenging for younger players without adult supervision.

Personal Thoughts on Ghostbusters: Protect the Barrier Game

**Ghostbusters: Protect the Barrier Game** is an excellent choice for families and fans of the Ghostbusters franchise. It is particularly well-suited for young players who enjoy cooperative games and are looking for a fun, strategic challenge. The game’s design ensures that both kids and adults can enjoy it, making it a great addition to any board game collection. However, it may not offer the same level of complexity and depth that more experienced gamers might seek in a board game.

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