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Casablanca (1983) Board Game

ByMichail

Casablanca is a board game released in 1983, designed by Adica Pongo and published by Falomir Juegos. It is set during World War II in the city of Casablanca, where players take on the roles of various characters trying to navigate the dangers and intrigue of the wartime setting.

Game Components of Casablanca

  • Players:** 2 to 8
  • Age Range:** No specific lower limit, but suitable for adults and older children
  • Components:** Money cards, movement cards, event cards, and game board
  • Mechanics:** Card Drafting, Dice Rolling, Hex-and-Counter
  • Publisher:** Adica Pongo
  • Playtime:** Approximately 60 minutes

    How To Setup Casablanca

    To set up the game, players start by placing their fugitive pieces at the German prison on the board. Each player also takes on the role of a Gestapo unit. The money, movement, and event cards are shuffled and distributed. The objective is clear: each player must navigate their fugitive from the German prison to safety in Casablanca while hindering other players’ fugitives using the Gestapo unit.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective:** Be the first player to get your fugitive to safety in Casablanca.
  • Mechanics:**
  • Card Drafting:** Players use money cards to buy resources like weapons and ship tickets.
  • Dice Rolling:** Used for movement and resolving certain events.
  • Hex-and-Counter:** The game board is divided into hexagonal spaces for movement.
  • Gameplay:**
    – Players move their fugitives and Gestapo units using movement cards.
    – Event cards introduce random challenges and opportunities.
    – Players can use money cards to bribe or hinder other players.

    Player Experience

    Playing Casablanca involves a mix of strategy and luck, as players navigate the risks of wartime Casablanca. The game requires careful resource management and tactical decision-making to outmaneuver opponents. The dual role of managing both a fugitive and a Gestapo unit adds complexity and depth to the gameplay.

    Pros

  • Historical Theme:** Immerses players in the World War II era.
  • Complex Gameplay:** Engaging mechanics that require strategy.
  • Multiplayer Capability:** Supports up to 8 players, making it a great group game.
  • Variable Outcomes:** Event cards ensure each game is unique.

    Cons

  • Limited Availability:** Originally published only in the Italian market.
  • Complexity:** May be overwhelming for casual players.
  • Dependence on Luck:** Dice rolls and event cards can significantly impact the game.

    Personal Thoughts on Casablanca

    Casablanca is a game best suited for fans of historical themes and complex strategy. It offers a unique blend of resource management and tactical play, making it appealing to experienced board game enthusiasts. However, its limited availability and potential complexity may make it less accessible to new players or those seeking simpler games. If you’re looking for a challenging and immersive World War II-themed game, Casablanca could be an excellent choice.

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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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