Girl Genius: The Works (2001) Board Game

Girl Genius: The Works’ is a board game based on the popular comic book series ‘Girl Genius’ created by Phil and Kaja Foglio. The game was released in 2001 by Cheapass Games and features artwork from Studio Foglio. Designed by James Ernest and Phil Foglio, the game combines elements of card games and comic books to create a unique gaming experience.

Game Components of Girl Genius: The Works

108 regular cards

4 “Lose a Turn” cards

Rules sheet (oddly-sized)

Shrinkwrap with plastic tear-strips

High-quality laminated cards with detailed designs

How To Setup Girl Genius: The Works

To set up the game, players create a 12-card tableau, known as “the Works,” in a lattice pattern. The tableaux consist of 4 rows of cards: the two rows closest to each player have 2 cards each (with one flipped face-up), and the two middle rows have 4 cards each. The remaining cards are shuffled, and each player is dealt 5 cards. The rest of the deck is placed on the table.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Flip a Card: Flip a face-down card face-up.

Spin a Card: Spin a face-up card 180 degrees.

Check: Check if the symbols on the edges of the spun card match those of its neighbors. If they match, the card with more symbols “pops” out of the Works.

Replace Cards: Fill any blank spaces created by popping cards with new cards from the player’s hand.

Draw Cards: Draw back up to 5 cards after resolving the popped card’s effect.

Game Objective

The goal is to be the first player to accumulate 100 points in their score pile by popping cards.

Alternative victory conditions include specific combinations of Dirigibles and Submarines in the score pile.

Player Experience

**Girl Genius: The Works** offers a blend of strategy and fun, with a unique mechanic of cards interacting through flipping, spinning, and popping. The game is most strategic with 2 players but can be enjoyable with more, though it becomes slightly more chaotic. Players must plan ahead, setting up moves to maximize their score while disrupting their opponents. The illustrations, while described as average, add a humorous touch to the game.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game involves planning and strategy to set up and execute moves effectively.

Replayability: High replay value due to the unique interactions and various card effects.

Unique Mechanics: The flipping, spinning, and popping of cards create an engaging and dynamic gameplay experience.

Fun and Humorous: The game is designed to be entertaining, with humorous illustrations and card effects.

Cons

Initial Perception: Some players might be deterred by the title, thinking it is geared more towards females.

Illustration Quality: The illustrations are described as average, though they are funny and easy to read.

Personal Thoughts on Girl Genius: The Works

**Girl Genius: The Works** is ideal for players who enjoy strategy, mad science, and innovative gameplay mechanics. It is a great choice for those looking for a fun and engaging card game that can be played in about 30 minutes. While the game can be enjoyed by a wide range of players, it is particularly suited for fans of the “Girl Genius” comic series and those who appreciate unique and strategic card games.

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