En Garde! (1975) Board Game – Board Game Guys

En Garde! is a board game that was released in 1975 by Lee Brimmicombe-Wood and Tim Wiseman. The game is designed for 2 to 20 players, making it perfect for large groups. With a runtime of 90 minutes, En Garde! is a game of adventure, fighting, and negotiation set in the Renaissance period. The game involves paper-and-pencil mechanics and simultaneous action selection, adding an element of strategy to gameplay.

Game Components of En Garde!

Game board

Character cards

Foil cards

Player markers

Dice

How To Setup En Garde!

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Each player selects a character card and takes the corresponding foil cards and player markers.

Shuffle the foil cards and place them face down on the designated area on the board.

Determine the starting player and begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In En Garde!, players take on the role of dueling swordsmen in a quest for honor and glory. The objective of the game is to outmaneuver your opponents and land successful attacks while defending against incoming strikes. Players must use their negotiation skills to form alliances and betrayals, adding an element of intrigue to the gameplay. The player who accumulates the most honor points by the end of the game is declared the winner.

Player Experience

Pros:

Engaging gameplay that encourages strategic thinking

Interactive and social gameplay with negotiation elements

Suitable for large groups, making it a great party game

Cons:

The game may feel repetitive after multiple plays

Requires a good understanding of the rules to fully enjoy the game

Personal Thoughts on En Garde!

En Garde! is a classic board game that offers a unique gaming experience with its blend of strategy, negotiation, and role-playing elements. The game’s build quality is solid, with durable components that can withstand repeated plays. While En Garde! may not be the most innovative game on the market, its historical theme and immersive gameplay make it a worthwhile addition to any game night. The pricing and availability of both new and used copies vary, so it’s worth checking different sources for the best deal. Players who enjoy games with a mix of combat and diplomacy will find En Garde! to be a rewarding experience. However, those who prefer fast-paced, action-packed games may want to skip this one in favor of other alternatives. Overall, En Garde! is a game that is worth your time if you enjoy strategic gameplay and immersive thematic experiences.

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