Monster Match (2018) Board Game

Monster Match is a children’s party game released in 2018 by DV Games. Designed by Ken Gruhl and Quentin Weir, it is a real-time game that requires players to quickly match monster cards based on specific criteria.

Game Components of Monster Match

2 custom dice (one for body parts: eyes, legs, arms; one for numbers: 0-5)

Monster cards

Zilch token

How To Setup Monster Match

To set up the game, lay out 10 monster cards around the Zilch token. The game begins immediately after the setup, with players taking turns rolling the dice.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Rolling Dice: Players roll the two custom dice to determine the characteristics of the monster they need to find (e.g., 3 eyes, 4 arms, 1 leg).

Racing to Find Monsters: Players must quickly find and touch a monster that matches the rolled characteristics.

Zilch Token: If no matching monster is found, the first player to touch the Zilch token gets the top card from the deck, and 10 new monsters are dealt onto the table.

Donut Points: Each monster is worth different donut points, making it strategic to find the monster with the most donuts.

Game End: The game ends when all monster cards have been collected. The player with the most donuts wins.

Player Experience

Monster Match is a fast-paced, exhilarating game that is perfect for family game nights or casual gatherings. It requires quick reflexes and strategic thinking, as players need to balance speed with the goal of collecting the most valuable monsters. The game is simple to learn, making it accessible to both gamers and non-gamers.

Pros

Simple to Learn: Easy to understand and play, making it a great introduction to board games.

Fast-Paced Fun: Quick gameplay keeps everyone engaged and entertained.

Strategic Depth: Players must decide whether to go for the first matching monster or wait for one with more donut points.

Inclusive: Suitable for a wide age range (6+) and supports 2-6 players.

Cons

Dependence on Reflexes: The player with the fastest reflexes often has an advantage, which can make the game less competitive for those with slower reaction times.

Repetitive Wins: The same player may frequently win due to their quick reflexes.

Personal Thoughts on Monster Match

Monster Match is ideal for families, casual gamers, and anyone looking for a light-hearted, fun game. It’s perfect for introducing children to board games due to its simplicity and interactive nature. However, for those seeking a game with deeper strategic complexity or more balanced gameplay, Monster Match might not be the best fit. Nonetheless, it remains a delightful addition to any game collection, promising laughter and excitement with each play.

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