Deflection (1981) Board Game

Deflection is a two-player abstract strategy game that was released in 1981 by Milton Bradley. The game involves players strategically placing and moving pieces on a grid in order to deflect a ball into their opponent’s goal. Deflection combines elements of action, dexterity, and puzzle-solving, making it a fun and challenging game for players of all ages.

Game Components of Deflection

Rack with sliding strips

Colored counters

How To Setup Deflection

To set up Deflection, players first assemble the rack, ensuring the sliding strips are in place. The colored counters are then distributed among the players. The objective is to create a setup where players can start dropping their counters through the slits in the rack.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Dropping colored counters through slits in a rack with sliding strips.

Objective: The goal is to get your counters to align in a specific pattern or to block your opponent from achieving their pattern.

Player Experience

Deflection offers a mix of strategy and luck, as the sliding strips can change the trajectory of the counters in unpredictable ways. Players need to think ahead and adjust their strategy based on the current state of the rack. The game is engaging and can be quite challenging, making it appealing to those who enjoy abstract and strategic games.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Requires players to think critically about their moves.

Unpredictability: The sliding strips add an element of surprise and challenge.

Simple to Learn: Easy to understand the basic rules, but difficult to master.

Interactive: Players need to react to the changes in the rack.

Cons

Luck Factor: The movement of the counters can be influenced by chance.

Limited Components: The game relies on a simple setup, which might not appeal to players seeking more complex games.

Out of Print: Since it was released in 1981, it may be hard to find a copy.

Personal Thoughts on Deflection

Deflection is ideal for fans of abstract strategy games who enjoy a blend of planning and adaptability. It’s a great game for those who like to think several steps ahead and can appreciate the simplicity and complexity it offers. However, due to its age and relative rarity, it might be challenging to find a copy, making it more of a collector’s item for enthusiasts.

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