Worn-out "Judge Dredd" board game box with an illustration of the character Judge Dredd holding a gun, surrounded by other futuristic characters and a cityscape in the background.
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Judge Dredd (1982)

ByMichail

Judge Dredd: The Game of Crime-Fighting in Mega-City One

“Judge Dredd: The Game of Crime-Fighting in Mega-City One” is a board game published by Games Workshop (GW) in 1982, based on the dystopian comic series Judge Dredd that appeared in the British comic magazine 2000 AD. The game is designed for 2-6 players, where each player takes on the role of a Judge in Mega-City One.

The Game Components of Judge Dredd include:

16″ x 22″ mounted gameboard (in two pieces)
54 Action cards
21 Sector cards
28 Perp cards
28 Crime cards
6 Judge cards
24 page card album
6 player pawns
4-page rulebook

six-sided die

The game is popular and significant because it is based on a well-known comic series and offers players a chance to immerse themselves in the world of Judge Dredd. The game has received positive reviews for its excellent opportunities for player interaction and fine balance.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay involves players patrolling the streets of Mega-City One, fighting crime, and apprehending perps. The objective is to gain the most points by completing missions and arresting criminals. The game has been reprinted and is available for purchase online.

In conclusion, the Judge Dredd board game is a popular and significant addition to the world of board games, offering players a unique and enjoyable experience based on the iconic comic series.

Game Components of Judge Dredd

  • 16″ x 22″ mounted gameboard (in two pieces)
  • 54 Action cards
  • 21 Sector cards
  • 28 Perp cards
  • 28 Crime cards
  • 6 Judge cards
  • 24-page card album
  • 6 player pawns
  • 4-page rulebook
  • Six-sided die.

    How To Setup Judge Dredd

    To set up the game, each player chooses a Judge and takes a token. Six Sector cards are flipped over to reveal the locations of the current crimes, and a Crime card is placed face up at each location along with a facedown Perp card. This ensures there are always six crimes occurring in the city at any time.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

    Mechanics

  • Movement: Players move 1 or 2 sectors towards the crime locations.
  • Arrest: Players attempt to arrest perps by rolling a die and adding their Judge’s base arrest value, supplemented by special cards.
  • Combat Resolution: The total must equal or exceed the sum of the Crime card’s value, the Perp card’s value, and a die roll.
  • Action Cards: Players can use cards to aid themselves or sabotage opponents.

    Game Objective

    The objective is to collect the most points by successfully arresting perps and stopping crimes. The game ends when the Sector deck is empty and all perps on the board have been arrested. The player with the most points from the Crime and Perp cards wins.

    Player Experience

    Judge Dredd is a game of crime-fighting and sabotage, set in the chaotic world of Mega-City One. Players take on the roles of Judges, navigating the city to capture perps and stop crimes. The game is known for its “take-that” interaction, where players can use cards to hinder each other. This adds a layer of fun and unpredictability, making it a great fit for fans of the comic series and those who enjoy light-hearted, competitive gaming.

    Pros

  • Thematic Artwork: The game features artwork reminiscent of the comic style, adding to the theme.
  • Simple yet Engaging Mechanics: Easy to learn but with enough depth for strategic play.
  • High Replayability: The game’s randomness and player interaction ensure different experiences each time.
  • Humor and Nostalgia: Fans of *2000 AD* will enjoy the references and humor embedded in the game.

    Cons

  • Luck Factor: The game relies heavily on dice rolls and card draws, which can be frustrating.
  • Player Sabotage: The “take-that” mechanism can be off-putting for some players.
  • Production Quality: The original version had some cheap components, such as unlaminated cards.

    Personal Thoughts on Judge Dredd

    Judge Dredd is a game for fans of the *2000 AD* comic series and those who enjoy retro, light-hearted tabletop gaming. It’s perfect for groups looking for a fun, entertaining experience rather than a deeply strategic game. While it may not appeal to everyone due to its luck-based mechanics and player sabotage, it retains a nostalgic charm and is a great addition to any collection of classic board games.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl