Borderlands (1982) Board Game

Borderlands is a board game that was released in 1982 and designed by Bill Eberle, Jack Kittredge, and Peter Olotka. The game is set in a fantasy world where players compete to control territories and resources through bluffing, negotiation, and strategic gameplay. With an emphasis on political and civilization-building elements, Borderlands offers a unique gaming experience for 2 to 4 players.

Game Components of Borderlands

Resource tokens (e.g., iron, coal, anvils)

City tokens

Warrior tokens

Horses

Riverboats

Map board featuring various regions

Dice for resource production

How To Setup Borderlands

During setup, resource tokens are placed randomly around the board. Each player chooses their starting region and places their warrior token. The game prepares for a phase-phase turn structure, where players will trade resources, produce resources based on a die roll, and manage their resources to build cities and engage in combat.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Area Movement: Players move resources and units around the map.

Random Production: Resources are generated based on a die roll during the Production Phase.

Simulation: Players manage resources to build cities and engage in combat.

Trading: Players trade resources with each other.

Objective: The goal is to be the first player to build three cities.

Resource Management: Resources must be combined in the same region to be used (e.g., combining iron and coal to make a weapon).

Shipping: Resources can be moved by foot, horse, or riverboat.

Combat: Determined by point values of units and resources; no random chance or dice rolling involved.

Player Experience

Borderlands offers a rich and strategic gameplay experience, blending resource management, trading, and area movement with a unique combat system. Players must balance their resource production, trading, and shipping to build cities and expand their territory. The game is praised for its innovative ideas, especially considering its release in 1982.

Pros

Innovative Mechanics: Combines elements of resource management and area movement in a unique way.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and strategic thinking.

No Random Chance in Combat: Combat outcomes are determined by the point values of units, making it predictable and strategic.

Historical Significance: Influenced later games like *Settlers of Catan*.

Cons

Complex Setup: The phase-phase turn structure and multiple mechanics can make the setup and initial gameplay confusing for new players.

Lengthy Gameplay: Games can take up to 120 minutes, which may deter some players.

Outdated Presentation: The game’s aesthetic may not appeal to modern players accustomed to more polished designs.

Personal Thoughts on Borderlands

Borderlands is a game for enthusiasts of strategic board games who appreciate complex mechanics and deep gameplay. It is particularly suited for fans of resource management and area movement games. While it may not be as visually appealing as modern games, its innovative mechanics and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any serious board game collection. However, due to its complexity and lengthy gameplay, it may not be the best choice for casual players or those new to board games.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.