Counter Attack (2019) Board Game

Counter Attack is a sports board game released in 2019, designed by Rachel Codd. It is a 2-player game with a runtime of 60-90 minutes, suitable for players aged 14 and above. The game features dice rolling, hexagon grid, movement, points open drafting, simulation, and stat check resolution mechanics.

Game Components of Counter Attack

Game board: The pitch where the game is played.

Teams: 2 sets of teams (‘white with red stripe’ and ‘black and white stripes’).

Player cards: 46 cards representing different players.

Referee cards: 4 cards for game management.

Ball counters: 2 counters to track the ball’s position.

Yellow and red cards: 4 each for penalties and player ejections.

Injury tokens: 4 tokens to mark injured players.

Distance sticks: 2 sticks for measuring distances on the pitch.

Dice: 2 12-sided dice for resolving actions.

Sand timers: 2 timers to manage game time.

How To Setup Counter Attack

To set up the game, you need to unpack the contents of the Classic Game Set, which includes everything necessary to play. Place the game board (the pitch) in the center, distribute the player cards, and set up the teams. Each player selects their team and players, and the game can be ready to start within 10 minutes of opening the box.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Formations: Play any formation or create your own.

Passing and Movement: Use low passes, high balls, long passes, crosses, and first-time passes to move up the pitch.

Shooting: Shoot from distance or get closer to test the goalkeeper.

Defending: Practice the art of defending to suffocate the space and make interceptions.

Fouls and Injuries: Foul and injure your opponent’s best players.

Objective: The goal is to manage your squad of players effectively to win the game within the 90-minute timeframe.

Player Experience

Counter Attack is designed for football fans who enjoy strategic gameplay, similar to classic computer games like Championship Manager, FIFA Soccer, and Football Manager. Players take charge of a team and make every decision on the pitch, utilizing their tactical skills to outmaneuver their opponent. The game is highly variable, with no two games ever being the same, offering an infinite number of possibilities.

Pros

High Strategic Depth: Allows for total strategic control over the game.

Variable Gameplay: No two games are ever the same.

Quick Setup: Ready to play within 10 minutes of opening the box.

Realistic Football Experience: Simulates various aspects of football, including formations, passing, shooting, and defending.

Cons

Complexity for New Players: May take time for new players to understand all the mechanics and strategies.

Limited Player Count: Designed for two players, limiting group play options.

Personal Thoughts on Counter Attack

Counter Attack is ideal for football enthusiasts who appreciate tactical gameplay and strategic planning. It’s a great option for those who enjoy face-to-face challenges with friends and are looking for a game that captures the essence of football strategy. The game’s complexity and depth make it appealing to fans of simulation and management games, but it may not be the best fit for casual or large group settings.

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