Hey Robot (2019) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Hey Robot is a fun and interactive board game that was released in in 2019. It is designed by Everybody House and falls into the categories of Card Game, Party Game, Print & Play, and Word Game. With a playtime of 20-30 minutes, Hey Robot is suitable for players aged 9 and above. The game revolves around communication limits and is team-based, making it a unique and engaging experience for players.

Game Components of Hey Robot

A smart speaker (e.g., Alexa, Google Home)

4×4 word grids (initial print&play version includes 160 words, final version includes 800+ words)

Two game pieces for tracking score

Approximately 20 small pieces (such as pennies) for bonus points

Scoring track

How To Setup Hey Robot

To set up Hey Robot, lay out one 4×4 word grid. Divide players into two teams and place the game pieces on the start square of the scoring track. Ensure each team has access to the smart speaker.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Teams Alternating Turns: Teams take turns asking one question to the smart speaker.

Question Restrictions: Players cannot use any form or part of the target word, spell the word, say the word in a different language, or ask for a synonym or rhyme.

Word Capture: If the smart speaker says the word or any form of it, the team captures that word and scores the points listed on the card, plus any bonus points.

Scoring and Bonus Points: Teams move their piece on the scoring track according to the points earned. Bonus points can be added to adjacent cards.

Game Objective: The first team to reach 16 or more points on the scoring track wins.

Player Experience

Hey Robot is a game that combines general knowledge, linguistic dexterity, and strategic thinking. It is designed for any group size, from 2 players to as many as can fit around a table. The game is praised for its fun and creative approach, making players think creatively to come up with questions that will prompt the smart speaker to say the desired words. It’s often described as hilarious and engaging, similar to games like Codenames or Taboo, but with the unpredictability of AI responses.

Pros

Encourages Creative Thinking: Players must think creatively to craft questions that will elicit the desired words from the smart speaker.

Interactive and Fun: The game is full of laughs and engages players of all ages.

Flexible Player Count: Suitable for any group size.

Unique Use of Technology: It’s the first board game designed to be played with humans and AI together.

Cons

Quality Issues: Some players have reported poor quality of the game components.

Frustration and Repetition: The game can become frustrating if teams consistently fail to capture words, and some players find it loses interest over time.

Overpriced: Some buyers feel the game is too expensive for its value.

Personal Thoughts on Hey Robot

Hey Robot is ideal for families, friends, and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of human creativity and AI capabilities. It’s a great addition to game nights, offering a unique blend of strategy, wordplay, and humor. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking a more traditional or predictable gaming experience. Given its creative mechanics and the need for smart speakers, it’s particularly suited for tech-savvy players looking to engage in a fun and intellectually stimulating activity.

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