Bezzerwizzer (2007) – Board Game Guys

Bezzerwizzer

Bezzerwizzer is a trivia board game that was created in Denmark in 2007 by Jesper Bülow. The name “Bezzerwizzer” is derived from the German word “besserwisser,” which means “know-it-all.” The game was designed to be a more strategic and competitive version of traditional trivia games, with players able to steal categories from their opponents.

Why is Bezzerwizzer Popular?

Bezzerwizzer is popular because it offers a unique twist on traditional trivia games. The ability to steal categories from opponents adds a strategic element to the game, making it more engaging and competitive. Additionally, the game is designed to be played by both casual and serious trivia fans, with questions ranging from easy to difficult.

Game Components of Bezzerwizzer

Category Tiles: 20 different categories to choose from.

Question Cards: 5000 questions in the original version, 3000 in the English version.

Bezzerwizzer Tiles (B): Used for answering questions and potentially moving opponents backward.

ZWAP Tiles (Z): Allow players to swap categories with other players.

Player Boards: For each team to organize their categories.

Playing Pieces: For tracking progress on the board.

How To Setup Bezzerwizzer

To set up Bezzerwizzer, players are split into teams. Each team selects a playing piece and takes two Bezzerwizzer tiles (B) and one ZWAP tile (Z) of the same color. Teams then draw four category tiles at random from the bag and place them on their tile board in order of preference. The team that plays first is chosen randomly, with no real advantage to going first.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Category Selection: Teams draw and arrange category tiles based on their strengths.

Question Answering: Teams answer questions in the categories they have selected, scoring points based on the category’s point value.

ZWAP Tiles: Allow teams to swap categories with other teams.

Bezzerwizzer Tiles: Enable teams to force opponents to move backward if they answer a question correctly and the opponent does not.

Objective: The first team to reach the finish line wins. If multiple teams finish in the same round, sudden death rounds are played until one team remains.

Player Experience

Bezzerwizzer offers a dynamic and interactive experience, encouraging players to strategize and bluff. Players can specialize in categories they are knowledgeable about and use tactics to outmaneuver their opponents. The game is designed for 2-12 players, making it suitable for small gatherings or larger groups, and is aimed at players aged 14 and above.

Pros

Variety of Categories: 20 different categories to cater to various interests and knowledge areas.

Strategic Depth: Players can use ZWAP and Bezzerwizzer tiles to manipulate the game to their advantage.

Social Interaction: Encourages teamwork and bluffing, making it a fun party game.

Quick Playtime: Games typically last 45 minutes, making it a great addition to game nights.

Cons

Luck Element: The random draw of category tiles can introduce an element of luck.

Complex Setup: While the setup is relatively quick (about 5 minutes), it can be somewhat complex for new players.

Potential for Dominance: Teams with a strong knowledge base in multiple categories may dominate the game.

Personal Thoughts on Bezzerwizzer

Bezzerwizzer is ideal for those who enjoy trivia games but also appreciate the addition of tactical elements. It is perfect for family game nights, social gatherings, or any event where a fun and engaging party game is desired. The game’s ability to accommodate a wide range of players and its relatively short playtime make it a versatile and enjoyable addition to any game collection. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking a purely competitive trivia experience without strategic elements.

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