Atoll (2008) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Atoll is an abstract strategy board game designed by Mark Steere Games and released in in 2008. The game is designed for 2 players and has a runtime of around 20 minutes. It falls under the category of abstract strategy games and features paper-and-pencil and pattern building mechanisms.

Game Components of Atoll

12 atoll pieces

19 tokens

36 cards

4 dice

1 compass

Player pawns and trimaran pawns

Smoker attack tokens

Daredevil tokens

Anola, guns, rope, and trimaran supplies cards

How To Setup Atoll

To set up Atoll, players start by using the compass piece to randomly select the secret location of dry land. The atoll pieces are placed on specified board locations, and each player receives three secret cards. The game board features a grid system with letters for longitude and numbers for latitude. Players place their trimaran pawns in the colored corners, and the game begins with 11 random tokens distributed face down on the atolls.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Card Collection: Players collect cards by landing on atolls or other players’ pawns.

Token Management: Players manage tokens to uncover resources and navigate the board.

Compass Mechanic: The compass reveals the location of dry land, which players must reach to win.

Smoker Attack: Tokens can be used to disrupt other players’ progress.

Daredevil Token: Allows players to move their pawn to any location on the board.

Game Objective

The objective is to be the first player to collect the necessary cards (anola, guns, rope, and trimaran supplies) and reach the secret dry land location revealed by the compass.

Player Experience

In Atoll, players embark on an adventurous journey through a Waterworld-inspired setting. The game starts with players exploring their immediate surroundings, collecting resources, and trading cards. As the game progresses, players must navigate the board, manage tokens, and strategically use special abilities to outmaneuver their opponents. The game’s design, with its detailed atoll pieces and the large compass, adds to the immersive experience.

Pros

Immersive Theme: The game’s Waterworld theme is well-integrated, making for an engaging and thematic experience.

Strategic Depth: The combination of card collection, token management, and special abilities provides a challenging and strategic gameplay experience.

Interactive Elements: Trading cards and using special tokens adds a social and interactive layer to the game.

Visual Appeal: The detailed illustrations and game components enhance the overall aesthetic.

Cons

Complex Setup: The initial setup can be time-consuming due to the random placement of tokens and the use of the compass.

Luck Factor: The random distribution of tokens and cards can introduce an element of luck, which may not appeal to all players.

Length: The game can take up to 90 minutes, which might be too long for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Atoll

Atoll is perfect for fans of adventure and exploration games, particularly those who enjoy the Waterworld universe. It is suited for players who appreciate engine-building mechanics and strategic gameplay with a touch of luck. However, it may not be the best fit for those looking for quick, simple games or those who prefer games with minimal luck involved.

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