Resistor_ (2015) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Resistor_ is an abstract strategy card game designed by Anthony Amato and released in in 2015. The game is known for its challenging gameplay that requires players to think strategically and plan their moves carefully. With a runtime of 20 minutes and suitable for players aged 8 and above, Resistor_ offers a unique gaming experience that combines elements of memory, modular board, and network building.

Game Components of Resistor_

Cards: Double-sided cards representing circuit boards, each with two different routing options.

Mainframe Cards: Each player has a mainframe card.

Resistor Cards: Special cards that can change the game dynamics.

Action Cards: Cards indicating the actions a player can take (flip over, draw and trash).

Box: Designed to look like an old-fashioned video game cartridge, it also serves as a card holder.

How To Setup Resistor_

To set up the game, remove the action, mainframe, and lock down cards from the deck. Shuffle the remaining cards and draw seven, placing them in a line on the table. Connect each player’s Defcon 1 mainframe card to their side of the cards. Each player draws two cards but can only see the side facing them. The player with the least cards on the table showing their color goes first.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Create an uninterrupted line of your color from your mainframe to your opponent’s mainframe to lower their Defcon level.

Actions:

Flip Over: Flip a card on the table to its other side.

Draw and Trash: Draw a card from the deck, add it to your or your opponent’s hand, and discard one card from the chosen hand.

Resistor Cards: When a resistor card is played, it can lower your Defcon level if connected to your mainframe or disrupt the opponent’s path by flipping cards.

Scoring: If a player creates an uninterrupted line to the opponent’s mainframe, the opponent’s Defcon level increases.

Player Experience

Resistor_ is known for its intense and cerebral gameplay. Players must constantly manipulate the double-sided cards to create a path while their opponent tries to disrupt it. The game requires strategic thinking and memory, as players need to keep track of multiple card combinations. As the game progresses, the tension builds, and each action becomes more critical.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game offers a rich strategic experience with simple yet effective mechanics.

Quick Games: Games typically last between 20 to 30 minutes.

Visual Appeal: The cards and box are designed to look like real printed circuit boards and old video game cartridges.

Tension Buildup: The gameplay creates a crescendo effect, making each action more impactful as the game progresses.

Cons

Complexity: The double-sided cards and the need to remember multiple combinations can lead to analysis paralysis.

Memory Demand: Players need to keep track of 22 different routing options, which can be challenging.

Resistor Card Frequency: Resistor cards may not appear often enough to significantly impact the game.

Personal Thoughts on Resistor_

Resistor_ is ideal for players who enjoy strategic, competitive games that require careful planning and quick thinking. It is particularly suited for fans of path-building and tile-laying mechanics, even though it uses cards. The game’s themes of hacking and nuclear war add a fun and intense layer, but the core mechanics make it accessible to a wide range of players. However, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer simpler, more relaxed gameplay experiences.

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