Hounded (2016) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Hounded is an abstract strategy board game designed by Clint Bohaty and published by Atlas Games in in 2016. It is a two-player game that revolves around the theme of animals in the forest. The game features modular board elements and variable player powers, making each play session unique and engaging.

Game Components of Hounded

Tiles: 49 in total, including Brook Tiles, Thicket Tiles, Scent Tiles, Trap Tiles, Morning, Noon, and Night Time Tiles, Baby Fox Tile, and Grass Tiles.

Game Pieces: 1 Master of Hounds, 3 Foxhounds, 1 Terrier, 1 Bulldog, and 1 Fox.

Den Tiles: Used to set up the starting board.

How To Setup Hounded

To set up the game, remove one Den Tile and place it face up in the game area. Shuffle the remaining tiles and arrange them in a seven-by-seven grid face down around the Den Tile. Place the game pieces in their designated starting positions at opposite ends of the grid. The Hunting Party begins at one end, while the Fox starts in its Den.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay: Players take turns moving their pieces and revealing tiles. The Hunting Party moves three pieces per turn, each with unique movement patterns. The Fox must move at least one space per turn and resolve the effect of the tile it lands on.

Objective for the Hunting Party:
– Capture the Fox by forcing it to end its turn next to the Master of Hounds.
– Trap the Fox by making it unable to move.

Objective for the Fox:
– Outlast the Hunting Party by revealing all three Time Tiles (Morning, Noon, and Night).
– Evade capture until only six tiles remain face-down.

Player Experience

Hounded offers an engaging and strategic experience with its simple yet effective mechanics. Players must think tactically, using the tiles and their pieces’ abilities to outmaneuver their opponent. The game’s asymmetry adds a layer of complexity, making each side’s strategy unique.

Pros

Asymmetrical Gameplay: Offers different strategies for each player, enhancing replayability.

Simple to Learn: Easy rules make it accessible to new players.

High Quality Components: Made from good quality stock and wood, with a unique aesthetic.

Tactical Depth: Requires planning and adaptability.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed for two players only.

Short Playing Time: Games last between 15 to 25 minutes, which may be too short for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Hounded

Hounded is ideal for those who enjoy strategic, abstract games with a touch of thematic flair. It’s perfect for couples or friends looking for a quick, engaging game that tests their tactical skills. The game’s short playing time and easy setup make it a great addition to any board game collection, especially for fans of asymmetrical gameplay. However, it may not be the best choice for larger groups or those seeking longer, more complex gaming experiences.

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