Bugs on Rugs (2019) Board Game

Bugs on Rugs is a card game that was released in in 2019. It is designed by Josh Cappel and Shawna J.C. Tenney, with artwork by Kids Table BG. The game falls under the categories of animals, card game, and educational, making it a fun and engaging option for families and friends.

Game Components of Bugs on Rugs

90 Bugs on Rugs cards

1 End card

1 cardboard first player marker

1 score pad

1 rulebook

How To Setup Bugs on Rugs

To set up the game, players decide who goes first using the first player marker. The bug cards are then placed face-up in the middle of the table, an area known as the “Floor.” A separate line beside the deck, called the “Wall,” is also established. The End card is shuffled into the deck to mark the end of the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Drafting Mechanic: Players take turns drafting bug cards from the Floor into their hand.

Wall Actions: At the end of each round, the leftover bug card moves to the Wall and activates its unique power, which can affect all players.

Scoring: Each bug type scores differently. For example:

Ants: Score 5 points each if you have the most, 3 points if you have the second-most, and 1 point otherwise.

Beetles: Score 5 points each if you have an even number, 2 points if you have an odd number.

Ladybugs: Score 25 points if you have exactly four, 1 point each otherwise.

Spiders and Flies: Spiders score 7 points if fed a Fly, which is then discarded.

Fireflies: Score 1 point for each differently-colored rug in your hand.

Objective: The player with the most valuable collection of bugs at the end of the game wins.

Player Experience

Bugs on Rugs offers a delightful and swift gaming experience that is easy to grasp but rich in strategy. Players must pay close attention to the cards their opponents are collecting to optimize their own bug sets. The game’s simplistic rules and short playtime make it an excellent choice for both casual and serious gamers. The interactive Wall actions add a dynamic element, keeping the game engaging and unpredictable.

Pros

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

Quick Playtime: Games last about 25 minutes.

Strategic Depth: Various scoring combinations and Wall actions add complexity.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 6 and above.

Interactive: Wall actions engage all players and create unexpected twists.

Cons

Limited Complexity: May be too light for hardcore gamers seeking deep strategy.

Memory Requirement: Players need to keep track of opponents’ collections.

Luck Element: The End card’s placement and Wall actions introduce randomness.

Personal Thoughts on Bugs on Rugs

Bugs on Rugs is perfect for families, casual gamers, and those looking for a quick, light-hearted game to fill gaps between more complex sessions. It’s an excellent introduction to drafting mechanics and offers enough variety to keep players engaged without overwhelming them. If you’re seeking a fun, easy-to-learn game that’s full of charm and simple strategy, Bugs on Rugs is a great choice.

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