Button Soccer (1911) Board Game

Button Soccer, also known as Button Football, is a tabletop board game that simulates the game of soccer using buttons as players. It was first released in 1911 and has gained popularity among fans of action/dexterity and sports games. The game is designed by Geraldo Décourt and features artwork by various artists.

Game Components of Button Soccer

Buttons/Disks: Typically circular, made from materials such as coconut shells, horn, bone, or modern materials like fiberglass and plastic. Each disk has a specific shape and form depending on its role in the team.

Goalkeeper: Often a larger rectangular block or a matchbox filled with molten lead for stability.

Game Ball: A smaller disk used as the ball.

Tabletop: Usually a plywood or Celotex-covered surface with markings to simulate a football field.

How To Setup Button Soccer

To set up the game, players place the 11 buttons per team on their respective sides of the tabletop, following the initial formation rules. The goalkeeper is positioned at the goal. The game starts with a kickoff, where all pieces are in their starting positions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Score more goals than the opposing team by propelling the buttons to hit the ball into the opponent’s goal.

Gameplay:
– Players take turns using a circular disk to exert a downward force on the buttons, moving them to strike the ball.
– Actions include dribbling, passing, and shooting.
– Shots on goal must be declared in advance.
– Fouls occur if a button strikes an opposing piece before hitting the ball.
– Possession changes if the ball leaves the field or hits an opposing piece without going out of bounds.

Player Experience

Button Soccer offers a unique blend of strategy and physical skill, requiring players to master the art of propelling the buttons accurately. The game is popular in countries like Brazil, Hungary, Georgia, and Slovenia, with each region having its own set of rules and variations. Players appreciate the game’s ability to simulate real football tactics and the competitive spirit it fosters.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Allows players to employ various football tactics.

Physical Skill: Requires precision and control in manipulating the buttons.

Community: Has a dedicated following in several countries with organized tournaments.

Customization: Buttons can be decorated with team logos, player numbers, and other designs.

Cons

Learning Curve: New players may find it challenging to master the button manipulation technique.

Standardization: Some players miss the variety of non-standard buttons, which are now often replaced by uniform, high-quality pieces.

Space Requirements: Needs a dedicated tabletop space.

Personal Thoughts on Button Soccer

Button Soccer is ideal for football enthusiasts who enjoy strategic games and are looking for a unique, hands-on experience. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate the nuances of football tactics and the physical challenge of manipulating small objects with precision. The game fosters a strong sense of community, especially in regions where it has a long-standing tradition. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking a quick, casual game, as it requires some practice to become proficient.

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