Bottom of the 9th (2015) Board Game

Bottom of the 9th is a baseball-themed board game that was released in in 2015. Designed by Adam P. McIver, the game is published by Dice Hate Me Games and Greater Than Games, LLC. It is a bluffing and deduction game that simulates the tension of a baseball game’s final inning.

Game Components of Bottom of the 9th

Dice: Used for resolving pitches and batter reactions.

Player Cards: Representing various baseball players with unique strengths and weaknesses.

Pitch Cards: Secretly chosen by the pitcher to determine the type of pitch.

Count Tracker: A “stick of gum” sheet that tracks the game’s progress.

Customizable Line-ups: Allows players to create varied teams.

Expansion Packs: Options for additional players, game conditions, and an equipment system.

How To Setup Bottom of the 9th

To set up the game, players choose whether to play as the home team or the away team. The home team is at bat, aiming to score one run to win, while the away team must get three outs to end the inning. Each player selects their team’s lineup and the pitcher secretly chooses their pitches. The game board is set up with the count tracker and any additional components from expansions if used.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Rolling: Used to resolve the outcome of pitches and batter reactions.

Bluffing/Deduction: The batter must guess the type of pitch the pitcher has chosen.

Variable Player Powers: Each player card has unique abilities and traits.

Customizable Line-ups: Players can adjust their team’s lineup for different strategies.

Advanced League and Solo Play: Additional rules for more complex gameplay and solo play.

Player Experience

Players experience a thrilling and strategic game that captures the essence of baseball’s final inning. The game is quick, lasting 5-20 minutes, making it easy to play multiple rounds. The quirky art style and high-quality components add to the game’s appeal. However, some players find the rules overly complicated and the instructions not well-written, which can lead to an initial learning curve[5%.

Pros

Incredibly Well Done Theming: Captures the aesthetic of old-time baseball.

Quick Gameplay Mechanics: Easy to play, even for those new to board games.

Great for Baseball Fans: A quintessential baseball board game experience.

Variable Player Powers and Customizable Line-ups: Adds depth and replayability.

Cons

Luck-Dependent: Some parts of the game rely heavily on dice rolls.

Complicated Rules: Initial setup and understanding can be confusing.

Not for Everyone: Those unfamiliar or uninterested in baseball may not find value here.

Personal Thoughts on Bottom of the 9th

**Bottom of the 9th** is ideal for baseball fans and those who enjoy strategic, quick games. While it has a learning curve, the game offers a unique and thrilling experience that simulates the high stakes of baseball’s final inning. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to capture the spirit of baseball in a compact and engaging game format. However, it may not be the best fit for those who are not fans of baseball or prefer games with less luck involved.

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