Distraction (2012) Board Game

Distraction is a card game that was released in 2012 by designer Patrick Matthews. It is a fast-paced game that challenges players’ memory and number skills. The game is suitable for 2 to 6 players, making it a great option for small gatherings or family game nights.

Game Components of Distraction

54 Number Cards (each with a single-digit number from 1-9, some marked with “draw a distraction card”[4）。

50 Distraction Cards (with various questions and tasks)[4）。

Instructions

How To Setup Distraction

To set up the game, shuffle the deck of Number Cards and deal them face down to each player. For 1 to 3 players, deal 12 Number Cards to each player and remove any leftovers. For 4 or more players, distribute all 54 Number Cards evenly among the players. Players keep their Number Cards face down and do not look at them. The first player, usually the one with the highest number card, starts the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Players take turns drawing Number Cards and reciting the growing sequence of numbers.

When an orange Number Card is drawn, the player must draw a Distraction Card, answer the question or complete the task, and then recite the entire number sequence.

Players can challenge each other if they suspect a mistake in the sequence recitation.

Game Objective

The goal is to be the first player to get rid of all their Number Cards.

Players are eliminated if they fail to recite the sequence correctly when challenged.

Player Experience

Playing Distraction is a fun and challenging experience that tests memory and focus. The game introduces a unique twist with Distraction Cards, which interrupt the sequence recitation with simple questions or tasks, making it harder for players to remember the numbers. This mechanic encourages social interaction and often leads to laughter and discussions among players. Despite its simplicity, the game can become quite demanding as the sequence grows, making it engaging for both children and adults.

Pros

Easy to learn and teach.

Promotes memory improvement and focus.

Encourages social interaction and casual talk about cognitive skills.

Suitable for a wide range of players (2-30 players).

Attractively designed and packaged.

Cons

Can be frustratingly challenging, especially as the number sequence grows.

Requires a good amount of mental effort, which might not be appealing to all players.

Solo play is technically possible but lacks the social interaction aspect that makes the game more enjoyable.

Personal Thoughts on Distraction

Distraction is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their memory skills in a fun and interactive way. It is particularly suitable for families, classrooms, and social gatherings where engaging in mental challenges can be both entertaining and educational. The game’s ability to induce laughter and create memorable moments makes it a great addition to any game collection. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking a more relaxed gaming experience or those who prefer games with less cognitive demand.

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