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Anticipation (1987) Board Game

ByMichail

Anticipation is a board game that was released in in 1987. It is a fun and engaging game designed for 2-4 players, with a runtime of about 30 minutes. The game falls under the category of Animals and features mechanisms such as Roll/Spin and Move, as well as Set Collection. The game is suitable for players aged 8 and above, making it a great option for families and friends to enjoy together.

Game Components of Anticipation

  • Game Pieces:** A pair of pink high-heeled shoes, a bugle, an ice cream cone, and a teddy bear.
  • Controllers:** Used for buzzing in during the game.
  • Board:** Features colored categories (blue, green, pink, yellow) and special squares like Feature Squares and Drop-Out Squares on higher levels.
  • Difficulty Settings:** Easy, Medium, Hard, and Very Hard.
  • Categories:** Four categories corresponding to the four colors on the board.

    How To Setup Anticipation

    To set up Anticipation, players must choose the number of human and computer players, which must total no more than four. The difficulty setting must also be selected. At least one human player is required.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Gameplay:** Combines elements from Pictionary and Trivial Pursuit.
  • Objective:** Guess the picture being drawn on the screen.
  • Mechanics:**
    – Players buzz in to guess the picture.
    – A die counts down from six to zero while the picture is being drawn.
    – The first player to buzz in has 25 seconds to spell out the answer.
    – Correct answers credit the player with the corresponding color and move their token.
    – Collecting all four colors moves the token to the next level.
    – Feature Squares and Drop-Out Squares add complexity on higher levels.

    Player Experience

    Playing Anticipation is a blend of quick reflexes and sharp guessing skills. The game’s gradual increase in difficulty keeps players engaged, especially as the visual aids are removed in harder settings. The multiplayer aspect allows for competitive fun with up to four players, making it a great option for social gaming sessions.

    Pros

  • Engaging Multiplayer:** Supports up to four players, enhancing social gaming.
  • Increasing Difficulty:** Keeps the game challenging and exciting.
  • Unique Gameplay:** Combines drawing and trivia elements.
  • Colorful and Interactive Board:** Features various categories and special squares.

    Cons

  • Compatibility Issues:** Not compatible with the NES Four Score.
  • Time Pressure:** Players must answer quickly, which can be stressful.
  • Limited Visual Aids on Harder Levels:** Makes the game more challenging but may frustrate some players.

    Personal Thoughts on Anticipation

    Anticipation is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of drawing, trivia, and quick reflexes. It is a great choice for family game nights or social gatherings where players can compete and have fun together. However, it may not be the best fit for players who prefer more relaxed or cooperative gameplay experiences.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl