Face to the Mat (2000) Board Game

Face to the Mat is a board game released in 2000 by PLAAY, designed for 1-2 players aged 12 and up. The game falls under the sports category, focusing on wrestling simulation using dice rolling mechanics and variable player powers.

Game Components of Face to the Mat

Fast-action cards

Wrestling ring game boards (3)

Manager strategy cards

Sample scoresheets

Complete rules and instructions

Game box with labels

Dice

Markers

36 sample wrestler cards

Additional real-life pro and fictional wrestler card sets available separately or with the game.

How To Setup Face to the Mat

Setting up Face to the Mat involves organizing the game components, selecting your wrestlers, and preparing the game boards. The game comes with complete instructions for basic game play, including various types of matches. Players need to lay out the wrestling ring game boards, shuffle the fast-action cards, and distribute the manager strategy cards. The setup is designed to be straightforward, allowing players to dive into the game quickly.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Card-based gameplay using fast-action cards and manager strategy cards

Dice rolling for determining match outcomes

Use of a “highlight reel” booklet to guide storylines

Game Objective

To create and manage a wrestling federation, including setting up matches, managing storylines, and determining the outcomes of wrestling matches. The goal is to engage in realistic pro wrestling action and storytelling, with players acting as the “boss” of their own wrestling universe.

Player Experience

Face to the Mat offers an immersive experience that replicates the excitement of professional wrestling. Players can enjoy detailed wrestling action and intricate storylines, complete with feuds, plot twists, and dramatic matches. The game is easy to play, yet rich in complexity, making it endlessly entertaining and full of surprises. Each game session can be unique, thanks to the combination of fast-action cards and the “highlight reel” booklet.

Pros

Highly immersive and realistic pro wrestling experience

Easy to learn but deep in gameplay mechanics

High replayability due to variable game outcomes

Allows players to create their own wrestling stories and matches

Good value for the price, offering unlimited entertainment.

Cons

Can be complex for new players to fully grasp all the nuances

Requires a significant amount of time to set up and play through a full storyline

Limited availability of certain wrestler card sets might be a drawback for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Face to the Mat

Face to the Mat is ideal for fans of professional wrestling who want to take their enthusiasm to the next level. It is perfect for those who enjoy storytelling, strategy, and the theatrical aspect of wrestling. The game is great for both casual players looking for fun and die-hard wrestling fans who want a detailed and realistic experience. However, it may not be the best fit for those looking for a quick, simple game, as it requires a bit of commitment to fully appreciate its depth and complexity.

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