Combo (1997) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Combo is a dice game that was released in 1997 by Jumbo and Pressman Toy Corp. It is designed for 2-4 players, with a recommended age of 8 and up. The game is known for its fast-paced gameplay and simple rules, making it a popular choice for families and casual gamers.

Game Components of Combo

Game board

Six chips (or pieces) per player

Dice

Die shaker

How To Setup Combo

To set up Combo, each player takes a die, a die shaker, six chips, and the game board. All six chips are placed on the blank spaces at the bottom of the game board. Players roll their dice to determine who starts first; the player who rolls the lowest number goes first. Play then continues in a clockwise manner.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Get all six of your chips to the 97 space on the game board.

Rolling: Players roll their dice to move pieces onto the board or advance them. Rolling a 1, 2, or 3 allows a piece to be placed on the corresponding space or moved forward.

Movement: Pieces can be moved by adding the rolled number to their current space or by moving up the corresponding number of spaces.

97 Combination: Multiple pieces can be moved to the 97 space if their combined values equal 97.

Bonus Numbers: Landing on spaces 57, 72, or 89 grants an extra free roll and move.

Penalty: Landing on a space occupied by another player’s piece sends that piece back to the start.

Player Experience

Playing Combo involves a mix of luck and strategy. Players need to strategically position their pieces to utilize the roll of the dice effectively. The game allows for flexibility in movement, enabling players to either focus on moving individual pieces or combining multiple pieces to reach the 97 space quickly. This combination mechanic adds complexity and requires players to think through multiple possibilities, making each turn potentially time-consuming but engaging.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Combining pieces to reach 97 adds a strategic layer.

Flexible Movement: Players can choose different ways to move their pieces.

Engaging Gameplay: The combination of luck and strategy keeps the game interesting.

Cons

Complex Decisions: Calculating combinations can be time-consuming.

Luck Factor: Dice rolls introduce an element of luck, which may frustrate strategic players.

Personal Thoughts on Combo

Combo is a game that suits players who enjoy a mix of strategy and luck. It is particularly appealing to those who like to think through different combinations and strategies. While it may not be the best fit for players seeking a purely luck-based game or those who prefer quick, straightforward gameplay, it offers a unique and engaging experience for those willing to invest time in strategizing their moves. It is a good choice for families or casual game nights where players are looking for a game that is both fun and intellectually stimulating.

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