Copycat (2012) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Copycat is a board game that was released in in 2012. Designed by Friedemann Friese and published by 2F-Spiele, this game has garnered attention for its unique gameplay mechanics and engaging player experience. With a focus on card game and political elements, Copycat offers a different kind of gaming experience for players.

Game Components of Copycat

Large game board

114 cards, including money, victory points, and action cards

Wooden worker pieces

Victory point chips

Card row track

How To Setup Copycat

To set up Copycat, each player starts with a deck of 10 cards, consisting of 7 money cards and 3 victory point cards. Each player also receives a set of worker pieces. The game board is laid out with various action spaces, and the card row is populated with cards from the deck. The game timers and victory point milestones are also set in place.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Deck Building: Players add new cards to their deck to enhance their money and victory point generation.

Worker Placement: Players use their workers to activate action spaces on the board, which can provide money, draw new cards, or boost card effects.

Card Buying: Players can buy new cards from a card row, with costs increasing as the row progresses.

Turn Order: Players use card numbers to bid for turn order.

Victory Points: The game ends when a victory point milestone is reached or one of the game timers activates. The player with the most victory points wins.

Player Experience

Copycat offers a dynamic and strategic experience, where players must balance their deck building with effective worker placement. The game rewards well-thought-out strategies and adaptability, as players need to adjust to the changing availability of cards and action spaces. The integration of mechanics from games like Dominion, Through the Ages, and Agricola adds depth and complexity.

Pros

Streamlined Mechanics: The game mechanics are well-integrated and easy to understand.

Multiple Paths to Victory: Players can choose different strategies to win.

Engaging Gameplay: The combination of deck building and worker placement keeps the game engaging and challenging.

Easy to Teach: Despite its complexity, the game is relatively easy to teach new players.

Cons

Lack of Theme: The game lacks a strong thematic integration, which may deter players who value theme.

Replay Value: Some players find the card variety limited, which can reduce replay value.

Feel of Soullessness: The game can feel mechanical and soulless at times.

Personal Thoughts on Copycat

Copycat is an intriguing game for entrenched board game fans who appreciate the craft and theory behind game design. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy the mechanics of deck building and worker placement. However, it may not be the best choice for players who value a strong theme or are looking for a game with high replayability. Despite this, Copycat’s unique mashup of mechanics and its streamlined gameplay make it a compelling addition to any serious board game collection.

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