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CATastrophe: A Game of 9 Lives (2022) Board Game

ByMichail

CATastrophe: A Game of 9 Lives is a card game that was released in in 2022. It is designed by Jacqui Davis and Jenny Parks, with art by The Original Sasquatch. The game is centered around cats and humor, with players taking on the roles of feline characters trying to outwit and outplay each other.

Game Components of CATastrophe: A Game of 9 Lives

  • Player boards**
  • Character cards**
  • Power Cat cards** featuring 20 famous cat influencers
  • Attack and curiosity cards**
  • Dice**
  • Catastrophic mini-game components**
  • Grim Reapurr token**
  • Life tokens** (each player starts with 9 lives)

    How To Setup CATastrophe: A Game of 9 Lives

    To set up the game, each player chooses a character card and starts with 9 life tokens. The Power Cat cards, attack and curiosity cards, and other game components are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. The Grim Reapurr token is positioned on the board to signify the game’s antagonist. Players take turns drawing cards and rolling dice to initiate gameplay.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Starting with 9 lives: Each player aims to survive the chaotic events.
  • Card play: Players can play multiple cards on their turn, including attack and curiosity cards.
  • Dice rolling: Used to determine outcomes in various mini-games.
  • Catastrophic events: End-of-turn events that engage all players and add unpredictability.
  • Power Cats: Unique abilities from famous cat cards help players.
  • Objective: Be the last player standing by surviving the mayhem and avoiding the Grim Reapurr.

    Player Experience

    **CATastrophe** is a game filled with hilarious moments, twists, and turns. It is easy to learn, with a well-written manual and simple card designs. The game is engaging for all players, even during other players’ turns, thanks to the end-of-turn events. While the pace can be slow due to the number of cards that can be played, the interactive elements keep everyone involved. The game is suitable for both children and adults, although younger players may need adult guidance.

    Pros

  • Engaging gameplay: Keeps all players involved through end-of-turn events and mini-games.
  • Easy to learn: Simple card designs and a well-written manual make it accessible.
  • Great components: High-quality art and components are praised by players.
  • Fun theme: Features famous internet cats, adding a fun and recognizable element.
  • Supports animal rescues: The creators personally donate to animal rescue funds, such as Lil BUB’s Big Fund.

    Cons

  • Slow pace: The game can take awhile to come back around to each player’s turn due to the number of cards that can be played.
  • Requires non-serious players: Some events and mini-games involve silly tasks, so it’s best played with a group that enjoys light-hearted fun.

    Personal Thoughts on CATastrophe: A Game of 9 Lives

    **CATastrophe** is perfect for families, cat lovers, and anyone looking for a light-hearted, fun board game. It offers a great blend of strategy and unpredictability, making it challenging enough for adults while remaining exciting for children. The game’s focus on famous cats adds a unique and entertaining twist, and the commitment to supporting animal rescues is a commendable bonus. If you’re looking for a game that’s silly, engaging, and full of laughs, **CATastrophe: A Game of 9 Lives** is 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