Grand Master (1986) Board Game

Grand Master is a board game that was released in in 1986. Designed by Chris Goedecke and featuring artwork by Hoyle Products, this game falls under the categories of card game and fighting game. With a runtime of 90 minutes, Grand Master is best suited for players aged 12 and up, with a player count of 2 to 6 players.

Game Components of Grand Master

Cards: Includes Days cards (in denominations of 500, 1000, or 2000 days), Master cards for different martial arts (Judo, Tae Kwon Do, Boxing, Karate), and cards representing weapons and ki.

Instructions: Comes with a rulebook.

Score Sheets: For tracking progress.

Box: Includes a lid and bottom, with the overall condition varying depending on the source.

How To Setup Grand Master

To set up the game, players begin by selecting a Master card, which represents their initial mastery of one martial art. The Days cards, weapons, and ki cards are then shuffled and distributed. Each player aims to train for a total of 22,000 days to master six different martial arts.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Card game, Fighting.

Mechanics: Card Drafting, Hand Management, Paper-and-Pencil, Take That.

Objective: The goal is to become the Grand Master by mastering six martial arts and defeating other players in battles and wars. Players use Days cards to accumulate training days, and with the appropriate cards, they can attack opponents to forfeit their Master cards.

Player Experience

Playing **Grand Master** involves a blend of strategy and luck. Players must manage their hand effectively to accumulate the necessary training days and defend against opponents’ attacks. The game encourages strategic thinking and competitive play, making it engaging for those who enjoy card games with a martial arts theme.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Requires players to plan and manage their cards carefully.

Competitive: Allows for battles and wars against other players, adding a competitive edge.

Unique Theme: Combines martial arts with card game mechanics, offering a distinct gaming experience.

Variants: Shorter variants can be played, catering to different playstyles.

Cons

Complexity: May be overwhelming for new players due to the various card types and rules.

Luck Factor: The random distribution of cards can significantly affect gameplay.

Player Rating: Has a relatively low user rating compared to its overall complexity.

Personal Thoughts on Grand Master

**Grand Master** is ideal for those who enjoy card games with a strong strategic component and a unique theme. It is best suited for players aged 12 and above, given its complexity and the need for strategic thinking. The game offers a challenging and engaging experience, especially for fans of martial arts or those looking for a card game that combines skill and luck. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its intricate mechanics and the potential for lengthy gameplay sessions.

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