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Dallas (1981) Board Game

ByMichail

Dallas is a board game based on the popular television show of the same name that aired in the late 70s and early 80s. The game was released in 1981 by Mattel Electronics and is a mix of economic and industry themes with a focus on stock holding mechanics.

Game Components of Dallas

  • Three booklets: Rules of Play, Scriptwriter’s Guide, and Major Characters.
  • Fifty-six cards: Include minor characters, organizations, and objects (Plot Devices).
  • Two six-sided dice**.
  • Twenty perforated character sheets: Each includes stats, background, and explanations for the cast members.
  • Cheat sheet for the Director**.

    How To Setup Dallas

    To set up the game, the Director selects or writes an Episode and distributes the character sheets and initial Plot Devices to the players. Each player chooses a character and receives the starting Plot Devices. The game is structured into Episodes, each consisting of five Acts.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Episode Structure: Each Act includes the Director Phase, Negotiation Phase, and Conflict Phase.
  • Director Phase: The Director provides new information and Plot Devices.
  • Negotiation Phase: Players trade cards, information, and promises.
  • Conflict Phase: The core mechanic involves resolving interactions between characters using Ability and Power values, modified by relationships.
  • Mechanics:
  • Persuasion, Coercion, Seduction, Investigation: Successful attempts yield information, control over NPCs or Plot Devices, or force other actions.
  • Luck Checks: Allow resisting characters to counter attempts.
  • Victory Points: Awarded for successful actions, convictions, and controlling Plot Devices.
  • Objective: Accumulate Victory Points by controlling Plot Devices, resolving Episodes, and convicting characters of illegal acts.

    Player Experience

    The game offers a complex and engaging experience, mirroring the dramatic and manipulative nature of the TV series. Players must strategically negotiate, coerce, and investigate to achieve their goals. The game requires a mix of role-playing, strategy, and dice rolling, making it a unique blend of social interaction and mechanical resolution.

    Pros

  • Deep Role-Playing: Allows players to immerse themselves in the world of ‘Dallas’.
  • Strategic Depth: Multiple phases and mechanics provide a rich gameplay experience.
  • Social Interaction: Players must negotiate and trade, adding a social layer to the game.
  • Thematic Fidelity: Faithfully captures the intrigue and drama of the TV series.

    Cons

  • Complexity: The game has a steep learning curve due to its detailed rules and mechanics.
  • Balance Issues: Some players find the game unbalanced, particularly with certain card interactions.
  • Time Commitment: Each Episode can be lengthy, requiring a significant time investment.

    Personal Thoughts on Dallas

    This game is ideal for fans of the TV series ‘Dallas’ and those who enjoy complex, role-playing-heavy board games. It is suited for players who appreciate strategic depth and social interaction. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for quick gameplay sessions. The game’s complexity and thematic fidelity make it a niche but rewarding experience for the right audience.

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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

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