Around the World in 80 Days (2004) Board Game

Around the World in 80 Days is a board game based on the classic novel by Jules Verne. It was released in 2004 by Competo / Marektoy and designed by Michael Rieneck. The game allows players to recreate the adventurous journey of Phileas Fogg as he travels around the world in 80 days. With stunning artwork by Dirk Hoffmann, Franz Vohwinkel, and Bernd Wagenfeld, players are immersed in the world of the novel as they race against time to complete their journey.

Game Components of Around the World in 80 Days

Gameboard with Victorian-era decorations

6 Hat pawns and 6 Travel journals

25 Passepartout cards

18 Rumor cards

130 Money cards (in British pounds)

Rulebook

Travel cards (including train and ship cards).

How To Setup Around the World in 80 Days

To set up the game, players place the gameboard in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a hat pawn and a travel journal. The travel cards, Passepartout cards, Rumor cards, and Money cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. The game starts with each player receiving a set amount of money and a handful of travel cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Player Count: 2-6 players

Playing Time: 50-70 minutes

Age: 10 and above

Objective: The first player to complete the journey around the world in 80 days or less wins.

Mechanics:
– Card Drafting: Players choose from face-up travel cards.
– Resource Management: Managing travel cards (trains and ships) and money.
– Strategic Planning: Deciding when to travel and when to wait for better cards.
– Special Cards: Using Passepartout cards for benefits and navigating Rumor cards for hindrances.

Player Experience

Playing Around the World in 80 Days is a thrilling experience that combines strategy and luck. Players must balance the need to move quickly with the risk of overspending and running out of resources. The game encourages cautious and ambitious strategies, making it engaging for both casual and experienced players. The Victorian-era theme and the inclusion of a meandering detective add an extra layer of challenge and excitement.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Offers a balance between strategy and luck.

Thematic Engagement: Immersive theme based on Jules Verne’s novel.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 10 and above, making it a great family game.

Multiple Playthroughs: Different card combinations ensure varied gameplay experiences.

Cons

Complex Setup: Initial setup can be time-consuming.

Luck Element: Heavily reliant on the cards drawn, which can be frustrating for some players.

Limited Player Interaction: Players mostly focus on their individual journeys, which may reduce direct interaction.

Personal Thoughts on Around the World in 80 Days

Around the World in 80 Days is perfect for those who enjoy strategic planning and resource management games. It’s an excellent choice for families and casual gamers due to its accessible gameplay, while still offering enough depth for experienced players. The game’s nostalgic theme and modern mechanics make it a unique addition to any board game collection. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking high levels of direct player interaction or those who prefer games with less luck involved.

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