Hand-to-Hand Wombat (2022) Board Game

Hand-to-Hand Wombat is a lively and entertaining party game designed by Matthew Inman, Elan Lee, and Cory O’Brien, and published by Exploding Kittens in in 2022. The game combines action, dexterity, and hidden roles to create a unique and engaging experience for 3-6 players.

Game Components of Hand-to-Hand Wombat

3 Wombat Towers

Wombat Cards

Scorecards

Special Wombat cards for added complexity

A Wombat comic booklet.

How To Setup Hand-to-Hand Wombat

To set up the game, players scatter the bricks (tower pieces) into the play area. Each player is given a secret identity, either as a good Wombat or a saboteur (the “Schelm”). The game is ready to start once all players understand their roles and the objective.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Number of Players: 3 to 6

Age Range: 7+

Duration: 15 minutes per game

Objective: Teams must work together with their eyes closed to either repair or sabotage three stacks of square towers before time runs out.

Scoring: Points are awarded based on the number of towers successfully built or sabotaged. The team that reaches three points first wins.

Voting Mechanism: After each round, players discuss and vote with their eyes closed to identify the saboteur. If all but one player point to the same person, that person is eliminated.

Player Experience

Playing Hand-to-Hand Wombat is a frenetic and entertaining experience. The game involves a lot of hand contact, as players reach into the play area with their eyes closed, adding a comedic and physically interactive element. The inclusion of special Wombat cards adds complexity and excitement, making the game more challenging and fun, especially with more players. The Wombat comic booklet included is a nice bonus, adding to the game’s charm.

Pros

Unique Gameplay: Combines physical interaction with social deduction.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for children and adults alike.

Quick Games: Each game lasts only 15 minutes.

Comic Inclusion: Comes with a Wombat comic booklet.

High Replayability: More enjoyable with more players and special Wombat cards.

Cons

Hand Contact: Requires frequent hand washing or disinfection due to close physical interaction.

Ease of Detection: With fewer players, it can be easier to identify the saboteur, reducing the game’s complexity.

Personal Thoughts on Hand-to-Hand Wombat

Hand-to-Hand Wombat is ideal for those who enjoy social deduction games with a physical twist. It’s perfect for families, young adults, and anyone looking for a quick, entertaining game that encourages teamwork and strategic thinking. The game’s design makes it accessible to a wide range of players, but it truly shines with larger groups and the inclusion of special Wombat cards.

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