Doctor Who: The Card Game – Classic Doctor Edition (2016) Board Game

Doctor Who: The Card Game – Classic Doctor Edition was released in 2016 by Cubicle 7 Entertainment. It is based on the popular British television series Doctor Who, which has been captivating audiences since its debut in in 2016. The game allows players to take on the role of different incarnations of the Doctor as they travel through time and space, facing off against iconic villains and challenges.

Game Components of Doctor Who: The Card Game – Classic Doctor Edition

Cards: Include locations, defenders (e.g., Jamie, Sarah Jane, Ace), enemies (e.g., The Master, Sutekh, Haemavores, Ice Warriors), and support cards (e.g., Sonic Screwdriver, Bessie, K-9, Whomobile).

TARDIS and Dalek counters: Used to mark controlled locations.

Time Points: Used for drawing additional cards or performing other actions.

How To Setup Doctor Who: The Card Game – Classic Doctor Edition

Each player starts with one location and a five-card hand. Players also receive three cards passed from the player on their left. The game requires shuffling the deck and distributing the initial cards to each player. The objective is to set up the starting locations and ensure each player has the required number of cards in hand.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Draw two cards, pick up banked cards, and take three cards passed from the previous player. Play or bank cards until only three are left in hand, then pass those to the next player.

Location Control: Defenders are played face down to protect locations from enemies. Enemies are played face down to attack locations.

Resolution: When there is opposition, cards are flipped, and the higher value wins. Defenders secure locations with TARDIS counters, while enemies take over with Dalek counters.

Game Objective: Control the highest value in location victory points by the end of the game, which is triggered by an End of Game card or when a player has all five of their TARDIS or Dalek counters in play.

Player Experience

The game offers a fun and accessible design with unexpected nuances. It is particularly enjoyable for Doctor Who fans, as it features the first eight Doctors, their companions, and adversaries. The gameplay prompts interesting card play and strategic thinking, and the illustrations of classic Doctor Who characters add to the appeal. However, the mechanics do not deeply leverage the Doctor Who setting, which might be a disappointment for some fans.

Pros

Accessible Design: Easy to learn and play.

Nostalgic Value: Features classic Doctors and characters from the show.

Affordable: A low-cost addition to any collection.

Engaging Gameplay: Includes interesting card play and strategic elements.

Cons

Limited Mechanics: Does not fully utilize the Doctor Who setting.

Contract Job Feel: Designed in a style typical of Martin Wallace, which may not appeal to all fans of complex games.

Personal Thoughts on Doctor Who: The Card Game – Classic Doctor Edition

This game is ideal for Doctor Who fans who enjoy simple yet engaging card games. It is a great addition to any collection, especially for those who appreciate the classic Doctors and their companions. However, fans of more complex games or those expecting a deep dive into the Doctor Who universe might find it less satisfying. Overall, it offers a fun and accessible experience that is perfect for casual game nights with fellow fans.

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