Crows Overkill (2014) Board Game

Crows Overkill is a competitive card game that was released in 2014 by designer Roy Nambu and published by ペンとサイコロ (Pen & Dice). The game features a unique theme of crows battling against one another in a fight for dominance. With a runtime of 15 minutes and suitable for players aged 10 and above, Crows Overkill offers a quick and engaging gaming experience for 2 to 4 players.

Game Components of Crows Overkill

Two decks of cards: birds and shamisen

A time board

Player tokens or markers (not explicitly mentioned but implied for tracking)

How To Setup Crows Overkill

To set up the game, players need to shuffle and place the two decks of cards (birds and shamisen) within reach. Each player selects a token or marker to represent themselves. The time board is also placed in the center, ready for tracking the game’s progress. At the start of each turn, cards are drawn from both decks: birds are placed in front of the current player, while shamisen cards are added to the player’s hand.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Draw Cards: Draw birds and shamisen cards from their respective decks.

Place Birds: Birds are placed in front of the current player.

Play Shamisen: Play shamisen cards to eliminate or move birds.

Check Time Board: Check the time board to see if the remaining birds cry, which can lead to the player’s elimination.

Objective: The goal is to be the last player remaining in the red-light district, avoiding being called away by the cry of birds.

Player Experience

In **Crows Overkill**, players take on the roles of guests in a red-light district from the mid-1800s. The game’s theme is inspired by an old song sung by Takasugi Shinsaku, expressing a longing to stay with someone despite the signal to leave given by the crow’s cry. Players must manage the birds gathering in front of them, using shamisen cards to prevent the birds from crying and thus being forced to leave. This fast-paced game combines strategy with a bit of luck, making it engaging and interactive.

Pros

Quick Gameplay: The game is short, lasting only 15 minutes.

Simple to Learn: Easy-to-understand mechanics make it accessible to a wide range of players.

Interactive: Players must act quickly to manage the birds, making it a lively experience.

Unique Theme: The historical and cultural context adds a fascinating twist.

Cons

Limited Depth: The game mechanics, while fun, are relatively simple and lack deep strategy.

Luck-Dependent: The draw of cards can significantly influence the outcome, making it less about skill and more about luck.

Limited Replayability: With only two decks of cards, the game may become repetitive after several plays.

Personal Thoughts on Crows Overkill

**Crows Overkill** is ideal for those looking for a light-hearted, quick game to fill a short gap or as an icebreaker. It’s perfect for casual gamers or families with older children due to its simple rules and fast-paced action. However, it may not appeal to serious gamers seeking complex strategies or high replayability. The game’s unique theme and historical backdrop add a charming element, making it a fun addition to any board game collection.

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