Bargain Basement Bathysphere (2022) Board Game

Bargain Basement Bathysphere is a solo board game designed by Scott Slomiany and released in in 2022. The game falls into the exploration and nautical categories, offering players a chance to dive deep into the ocean in a bathysphere and uncover hidden treasures.

Game Components of Bargain Basement Bathysphere

3 11”x17” folded map boards

8 dice

Screen printed Bathysphere meeple

Dry-Erase Marker

Mini-game pad

Scenario book

How To Setup Bargain Basement Bathysphere

Setting up the game is relatively straightforward. Players begin by selecting a scenario from the scenario book, which outlines specific areas of the map to use and any special rules for that scenario. The game includes three large dry-erase maps, and each scenario utilizes only a portion of one of these maps. Players will also need to prepare their dice, meeple, and marker. The core rules are concise, taking up only two pages, making it easy to get started quickly.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Roll-and-Write Mechanics: Players roll a set of dice and select one to determine how many spaces to move on the map.

Campaign/Legacy Elements: The game spans 20 scenarios, with each scenario introducing new rules and challenges.

Map Navigation: Players navigate the underwater pathways, reaching specific spaces to score points and return to the surface.

Resource Management: Manage Oxygen, Damage, and Stress tracks to avoid scenario failure.

Upgrades and Minigames: Complete minigames to earn upgrades such as additional Oxygen, dice roll adjustments, and new movement options.

Game Objective: Dive deeper into the ocean, complete objectives, and return to the surface safely.

Player Experience

Playing **Bargain Basement Bathysphere** is an engaging and challenging experience. The game starts strong with its sardonic and humorous writing, appealing box and map design, and well-balanced dice mechanics. However, as the campaign progresses, some players may encounter issues such as cramped map spaces and the need to constantly refer between the scenario book and the map. Despite these challenges, the game’s innovative mechanics and the desire to explore all the extras keep players invested.

Pros

Engaging Story and Humor: The game’s dark and humorous tone keeps the experience entertaining.

Innovative Mechanics: The combination of roll-and-write mechanics with campaign/legacy elements is engaging and challenging.

Easy Setup: The core rules are simple, making it easy to start playing quickly.

Replayability: The game is fully replayable after completing the campaign.

Cons

Production Issues: Maps can be cramped and hard to read, and the meeple can get smeared with marker.

Setup Clutter: Navigating between the scenario book and the map can be cumbersome.

Inconsistent Experience: The game’s ambitious design sometimes leads to frustrating moments.

Personal Thoughts on Bargain Basement Bathysphere

**Bargain Basement Bathysphere** is perfect for solo players who enjoy roll-and-write games and are looking for a campaign experience with gradually increasing difficulty. The game’s humor and innovative mechanics make it appealing, despite some minor production and design issues. It is ideal for those who appreciate a mix of strategy, luck, and dark humor in their gaming experience. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking a flawless, polished game, as it has its share of quirks and inconsistencies.

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