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Bowl Bound (1973) Board Game

ByMichail

Bowl Bound is a classic sports board game that was first released in in 1973. It was designed by David S. Neft and Dr. Thomas Nicely, and published by The Avalon Hill Game Co. The game simulates the excitement and strategy of college football, allowing players to experience the thrill of leading their team to victory in a season full of bowl games.

Game Components of Bowl Bound

  • Team Charts: For various college football teams from different years.
  • Football Marker**
  • Scorepad**
  • Legend / Priority Chart / Timing Chart / Kickoff Selection / Play & Defensive Formation Selection**
  • Yards-to-Go Marker**
  • Rules Folder**
  • Football Field**
  • Five Dice: Each with different number distributions (e.g., Black die: 1-2-2-3-3-3, White die: 0-0-1-2-3-4, etc.)
  • Upright Scoreboard**

    How To Setup Bowl Bound

    Setting up Bowl Bound involves several steps. First, choose the teams you want to play with and ensure all the necessary components are available. Lay out the football field, scoreboard, and other markers. Players need to select their team charts and ensure they understand the rules and play mechanics. The game starts with a coin toss, determined by rolling the dice, to decide which team kicks off first.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Dice Rolling: Determines play outcomes, incorporating randomness.
  • Team Charts: Use pre-analyzed play-by-play data from actual college football games.
  • Play Calling: Players make strategic decisions on plays and defensive formations.
  • Game Objective: Win the game by scoring more points than the opponent through touchdowns, field goals, and other football scoring methods.

    Player Experience

    Playing Bowl Bound is an engaging experience that combines strategy with the unpredictability of dice rolls. Players appreciate the asymmetrical feel of different teams, each with its unique strengths and weaknesses. The game captures the essence of real-life football, with moments of excitement and frustration, much like an actual game. Players must adapt their strategies based on the team’s focus, whether it is running or passing, and respond to the defensive strategies of their opponents.

    Pros

  • Asymmetrical Teams: Each team has a distinct feel and playstyle.
  • Strategic Depth: Players must make tactical decisions on play calling and defensive formations.
  • Realistic Football Experience: The game mechanics mimic real-life football scenarios.
  • Randomness: Dice rolls add an element of unpredictability, making each game unique.

    Cons

  • Complex Setup: Setting up the game and understanding the rules can be time-consuming.
  • Randomness: While adding realism, dice rolls can sometimes lead to frustrating outcomes.
  • Team Balance: Some teams may have significant advantages over others, affecting game balance.

    Personal Thoughts on Bowl Bound

    Bowl Bound is ideal for fans of college football and strategic board games. It offers a unique blend of historical teams and statistical analysis, making it appealing to those who enjoy both the tactical and nostalgic aspects of football. However, due to its complexity and the time required to set up and learn the rules, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those new to board games. For enthusiasts, though, Bowl Bound provides a rich and engaging gaming experience that closely mirrors the excitement of real college football.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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