Alt text: A worn-out board game box cover for "Doorways to Horror, The VCR Game," featuring illustrations of a vampire-like character in the center, two players engaged in the game, various game cards spread on the table, and a VHS tape image with the text "Full VHS Format." The box indicates that the game includes a video cassette with 60 minutes of Hollywood film clips, and that no two games are ever the same.
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Doorways to Horror (1986)

ByMichail

Doorways to Horror

“Doorways to Horror” is a horror board game designed by Sid Sackson and published in 1986 by Pressman Toy Corporation. The game is played with a VCR and is part of a series of VCR board games that were popular during the 1980s.

Why is Doorways to Horror Popular?

The game is popular and significant because it combines the excitement of horror with the novelty of VCR technology. At the time of its release, VCRs were a cutting-edge piece of home entertainment, and the game’s use of VCR tapes added an element of suspense and interactivity to the board game experience.

Game Components of Doorways to Horror

  • VHS Tape: Contains clips from public domain media, including *Cyrano De Bergerac*, *Africa Screams*, *Algiers*, and *The Terror*.
  • Creature Cards: Five standing creature cards – vampire, werewolf, monster, witch, and zombie.
  • Power Chips: Used by players to participate in the game.
  • Spell Cards: Valued from 3 to 10, used to capture creatures.
  • Capture Cards: Allow players to steal creatures from other players.
  • Power Shift Cards: Include Loss of Strength and Protection cards to influence bidding.
  • Colored Dice: Used with Pressman’s “Colorscan” method to select doors.
  • Gold Certificates: Awarded to players based on the value of Spell cards played.

    How To Setup Doorways to Horror

    To set up the game, each player receives a set of creature cards, Power chips, and Spell cards. The number of creatures and Power chips is determined by the number of players. Each player gets 10-20 Power chips and seven cards from the Spell card deck. The five creature cards are dealt out among the players.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Door Selection: Players use the colored dice and the Colorscan method to select a door on the VHS tape.
  • Clip Playback: The selected door triggers a clip from the VHS tape, showing up to three creatures.
  • Spell Card Placement: Players place Spell cards on their creatures shown on the screen.
  • Capture Cards: Players can use Capture cards to steal creatures from other players.
  • Bidding: Players bid for control of the Main creature using Spell cards.
  • Power Shift Cards: Players can use Power Shift cards to influence the bidding outcome.
  • Penalty Stops: The tape may include penalty stops that impose restrictions or fines on players.
  • Game End: The game ends when a player runs out of Power chips or the tape ends. The player with the most Gold Certificates wins.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Doorways to Horror** is an engaging and entertaining experience, especially for those who enjoy retro gaming. The game requires close attention to the VHS clips and strategic use of cards. However, the gameplay can be hindered by the slow scanning speed of older VCRs, which can disrupt the flow of the game.

    Pros

  • Interactive VHS Experience: Combines traditional board game elements with VCR interaction.
  • Color Blind Accessible: The colored dice are also identifiable by indented initials, making the game accessible to color-blind players.
  • Strategic Depth: The game involves strategic bidding and card placement.
  • Retro Charm: Features clips from old horror films, adding to its nostalgic appeal.

    Cons

  • Slow Scanning Speed: Older VCRs without fast scan functions can slow down gameplay.
  • Dependence on VCR: The game’s functionality is heavily dependent on the VCR, which can be a limitation.
  • Complex Setup: The setup involves several components and rules, which can be overwhelming for some players.

    Personal Thoughts on Doorways to Horror

    **Doorways to Horror** is ideal for those who are fascinated by retro gaming and interactive VHS experiences. It is a great addition to any collection of vintage board games and offers a unique blend of horror-themed entertainment and strategic gameplay. However, it may not be the best fit for players who prefer modern, streamlined gaming experiences or those without access to a VCR. Despite its limitations, it remains a worthwhile and interesting diversion for enthusiasts of horror and retro gaming.

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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