echoes: The Microchip (2021) Board Game

Echoes: The Microchip’ is a science fiction board game released in 2021 by Ravensburger. Designed by Matthew Dunstan and Dave Neale, the game is set in a futuristic world where players take on the role of hackers trying to save humanity from a malevolent AI. With a combination of cooperative gameplay, deduction, and storytelling elements, ‘Echoes: The Microchip’ offers a unique gaming experience for 1-6 players.

Game Components of echoes: The Microchip

Cards: Two sets of cards – larger, heavier cardboard cards representing major story points, and lighter cards that fill in the story between these points.

App: A free Ravensburger app for iOS (iPhone 6s with iOS 12.0 and higher) and Android (Android 7.0 and higher) devices, which presents sound and sonic clues.

Instruction Book: A fold-out instruction book.

How To Setup echoes: The Microchip

To set up the game, players need to download and install the Ravensburger app on their compatible device. Ensure the device is not on silent mode, as this will mute the app’s audio. The game includes a fold-out instruction book that guides players through the setup process. Players start by organizing the cards and preparing their devices for scanning and listening to the sonic clues.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Audio Clues: Players use the app to scan cards and listen to sound clips that provide clues to the story.

Card Placement: Players must place cards in the correct order based on the sonic clues.

Triples: Combine three minor cards with one major story point card to solve parts of the puzzle.

Objective: The goal is to put all the cards in order to uncover the story and solve the mystery.

Player Experience

**Echoes: The Microchip** offers a unique and immersive experience, particularly when played in a group. Players collaborate by listening to clues, discussing them, and working together to arrange the cards correctly. The game is relatively short, lasting about an hour, and is described as a “sonic jigsaw puzzle” that keeps players entertained but is not deeply memorable.

Pros

Innovative Use of Sound: The game’s use of sonic clues provides a fresh and engaging experience.

Collaborative: More enjoyable when played with a group.

Portable: The game is small and inexpensive, making it easy to carry and share.

Non-Destructive: Components remain intact after playing, allowing the game to be passed on to others.

Cons

One-and-Done: Once solved, there is little incentive to play again.

Requires Quiet Environment: The game needs a quiet space to fully appreciate the audio clues, which can be challenging in noisy settings like conventions.

Technical Issues: Potential for app compatibility issues, such as the need to ensure the device is not on silent mode.

Personal Thoughts on echoes: The Microchip

**Echoes: The Microchip** is ideal for those looking for a unique, auditory puzzle experience. It’s a great option for family game nights or casual gatherings where players can collaborate and enjoy a short, immersive story. While it may not be deeply memorable or replayable, it offers a fun and novel way to engage in storytelling through sound. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy mystery and puzzle games and are looking for something different from the traditional board game experience.

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