Breaking Away (1991) Board Game

Breaking Away is an abstract strategy board game released in 1991, designed by Fiendish Board Games and New Games Order, LLC. The game is centered around the theme of bicycling/cycling, making it a unique addition to the world of board games. With a runtime of 60-90 minutes and suitable for players aged 10 and above, Breaking Away offers an engaging and competitive gameplay experience.

Game Components of Breaking Away

Player boards: Each player controls a team of four cyclists with varying abilities.

Game board: A track representing a 100-square race course.

Intermediate sprint markers: For awarding points during the game.

No dice or charts: The game relies on strategic decision-making rather than luck.

How To Setup Breaking Away

To set up the game, players first choose their team of four cyclists, each with different abilities. The game board is laid out, and intermediate sprint markers are placed at designated points on the track. Each player positions their cyclists at the starting line. The game is designed to be played over three stages, which are essentially intermediate sprints that award points to the first eight cyclists to cross these points.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Team Management: Players manage a team of four cyclists.

Slipstream Mechanic: Cyclists can gain advantages by drafting behind other cyclists.

Strategic Placement: Players strategically place their cyclists to maximize points.

Intermediate Sprints: Points are awarded during intermediate sprints.

Game Objective: The goal is to steer the team to the highest number of points by the end of the race.

Player Experience

**Breaking Away** offers an engaging and strategic gameplay experience without the need for dice or charts. Players must carefully manage their team, leveraging the slipstream mechanic to gain advantages. The game is praised for its exciting mechanics and is compared favorably to other cycling games like **Flamme Rouge**. It is designed to be played in about an hour, making it a concise and enjoyable experience.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Encourages strategic thinking and team management.

No Luck Involved: The game is free from dice rolls and other elements of chance.

Quick Gameplay: The game can be completed in approximately an hour.

High Replayability: Different cyclist abilities and strategic decisions offer varied gameplay experiences.

Cons

Complexity: Some players may find the math involved in the game mechanics slightly complex.

Limited Availability: The game is from 1991 and may be harder to find, especially in complete condition.

Personal Thoughts on Breaking Away

**Breaking Away** is a gem for fans of cycling and strategic racing games. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy games with deep strategic mechanics but without the randomness of dice rolls. While it may appeal more to experienced board game players due to its slightly complex mechanics, it remains accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of players. If you’re looking for a game that captures the essence of team cycling without the need for luck, **Breaking Away** is an excellent choice.

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