Basketball Highlights: Crunch Time (2023) Board Game

Basketball Highlights: Crunch Time is a board game that was released in 2023 by Eagle-Gryphon Games. The game is designed for 1-2 players and has a runtime of 20-30 minutes. It falls under the categories of Abstract Strategy and Sports, offering a unique gaming experience for basketball enthusiasts.

Game Components of Basketball Highlights: Crunch Time

Two decks of cards: Shot cards and Star cards.

Player tokens: Five players for each team, colored red and blue.

Score tracker: A mechanism to track points scored by each team.

Game board: Represents the basketball court, including the key and three-point line.

How To Setup Basketball Highlights: Crunch Time

To set up the game, place the board in the middle, ensuring the hoop is centered. Each player starts with seven cards in a two-player game and five cards in a solo game. Players position their tokens around the key on the court. No players are initially in the center of the key or at the three-point line.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Play: Players play one or two cards from their hand to move players and attempt to score.

Rounds: The game is played over five rounds, each consisting of two turns of offense and defense.

Scoring: Points are tracked on the score tracker. The team with the most points at the end of five rounds wins.

Overtime: If the score is tied, players enter overtime, drawing new cards and following sudden-death rules.

Star Cards: Unused Star cards are worth one point each at the end of the game.

Player Experience

In **Basketball Highlights: Crunch Time**, players experience a dynamic and strategic game that captures the momentum and runs characteristic of basketball. The game demands careful card management and strategic player positioning to outmaneuver the opponent. The solo mode introduces an AI opponent, adding a layer of randomness and challenge.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and execution.

Dynamic Gameplay: Captures the essence of basketball’s momentum shifts.

Solo Mode: Offers a challenging and random AI opponent.

Quick Games: Typically lasts around 30 minutes.

Cons

Limited Player Interaction: In solo mode, the AI’s moves are somewhat random.

Card Dependency: Success can be heavily influenced by the cards drawn.

Personal Thoughts on Basketball Highlights: Crunch Time

**Basketball Highlights: Crunch Time** is perfect for fans of basketball and strategic card games. It is ideal for those who enjoy quick, intense gameplay sessions and appreciate the tactical nuances of sports-themed board games. While it may not offer extensive player interaction in solo mode, it provides a compelling and challenging experience that mirrors the highs and lows of a real basketball game.

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