Ghost Chase (2001) Board Game

Ghost Chase is a children’s board game released in 2001 by designer Kai Haferkamp and published by 999 Games. The game is known for its hidden movement and deduction elements, where players must work together to catch the ghost that is haunting the mansion.

Game Components of Ghost Chase

Game Board: Representing Canterville Castle with multiple rooms.

Room Cards: 54 cards used for the ghost’s movements.

Animal Tokens: Various animals that determine when the ghost must reveal himself.

Ghost and Chaser Figures: For tracking player positions.

Cheat and Break Cards: Special cards for the ghost to make tricky moves.

Animal Frames: For removing animals from the board.

How To Setup Ghost Chase

To set up the game, the ghost chasers place their figures in rooms of their choice within the castle. The player playing as Max, the ghost, selects an empty room and places his figure there, then finds the corresponding room card and places it face up on the table. Each ghost chaser selects an animal frame and places it next to the board. This setup prepares the stage for the exciting chase.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Ghost Movement: Max moves invisibly, showing himself only when all animals of a specific type are removed from the board.

Chaser Movement: Chasers move conventionally using doors and stairs, while the ghost can move through walls, floors, and ceilings.

Animal Removal: After each round, an animal is removed from the board, marking the passage of time.

Game Objective: The chasers aim to capture Max by entering the room he is in. If Max remains unfound after all animals are removed, he wins.

Player Experience

Ghost Chase offers a unique blend of strategy and suspense. The ghost player must navigate the castle without being detected, using special cards to evade capture. Meanwhile, the chasers must coordinate their efforts to corner and capture the ghost. The game encourages strategic thinking and teamwork among the chasers, while the ghost must rely on cunning and careful planning.

Pros

Interactive Gameplay: Encourages teamwork and strategic thinking.

Variable Replayability: Different setups and player choices ensure varied gameplay experiences.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 8 and above.

Unique Mechanics: The ghost’s ability to move through walls and ceilings adds a fun twist.

Cons

Complex Setup: Requires careful arrangement of room cards and animal tokens.

Luck Factor: The removal of animals can sometimes favor the ghost or the chasers randomly.

Out of Print: May be difficult to find due to its out-of-print status.

Personal Thoughts on Ghost Chase

Ghost Chase is perfect for families or groups of friends who enjoy a mix of strategy and excitement. It’s an excellent choice for those who like games with unique mechanics and a bit of luck. However, due to its complexity and the fact that it is out of print, it may not be the best fit for casual or new board game enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a game that promotes teamwork and clever thinking, Ghost Chase could be an excellent addition to your collection.

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