TOKYO SIDEKICK (2018) Board Game

TOKYO SIDEKICK is a board game released in 2018 by designer Yusuke Emi and published by Little Future. The game is set in a fictional Tokyo where players take on the roles of superheroes fighting against villains in a cooperative gameplay style.

Game Components of TOKYO SIDEKICK

A large game board with two sides for different player counts (1-2 players and 3-4 players).

Player boards for each hero and sidekick.

A comic book providing backstories for the heroes and sidekicks.

Rulebook with detailed instructions and a mind map showing character connections.

Energy cards, hero and sidekick cards, villain cards, and incident cards.

Cardboard and optionally acrylic standees for characters and enemies.

Various tokens and punch-outs for game mechanics.

How To Setup TOKYO SIDEKICK

Setting up *Tokyo Sidekick* involves laying out the main board, distributing player boards, and preparing the various card decks. Players must choose their heroes and sidekicks, each with unique special powers. The game requires all standees to be ready, as they will be randomly drawn during the game. The setup is facilitated by a well-written rulebook, making the process straightforward and manageable.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative Play: Players work together as hero and sidekick duos to save Tokyo from villains and incidents.

Deck Management: Players use energy cards to perform actions such as moving, fighting villains, and resolving incidents.

Incident Management: New incidents are added to the board at the end of each turn, which players must manage to prevent the game from being lost.

Upgrades and Leveling: Heroes and sidekicks can level up and gain new abilities and gadgets.

Objective: Defeat two villains, two supervillains, and the final boss, the Menace, to win the game.

Player Experience

Playing *Tokyo Sidekick* is an engaging and dynamic experience. The game requires strategic planning and teamwork to manage the numerous incidents and villains. Each player can specialize in different aspects, such as speed or concentration, adding variety to the gameplay. The game also includes a solo mode where the player operates two teams of heroes and sidekicks, making it accessible for solo players as well.

Pros

Detailed Character Backstories: Rich descriptions and backstories for each hero and sidekick add depth to the game.

High Replayability: Various hero-sidekick combinations and a diverse enemy deck ensure multiple unique playthroughs.

Educational Element: The game teaches players about different neighborhoods in Tokyo.

Well-Written Rulebook: Easy to understand and set up thanks to a clear and detailed rulebook.

Quality Components: Acrylic standees and well-designed cards enhance the gaming experience.

Cons

Space Requirements: The game takes up a significant amount of table space due to its large board and numerous components.

Complexity: While not hard to play, the game layers multiple mechanisms that can be overwhelming for new players.

No Major Empowering Representation: Some critics note that the game does not excel in feminist representation, though it remains family-friendly.

Personal Thoughts on TOKYO SIDEKICK

*TOKYO SIDEKICK* is ideal for fans of cooperative games and those who enjoy a mix of strategy and superhero themes. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate detailed character backstories and the challenge of managing multiple crises simultaneously. The game’s educational aspect about Tokyo’s geography is an added bonus. While it may not be the best fit for those seeking empowering representation, it offers a fun and engaging experience for tweens, teens, and adults alike.

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