Jungle Joust (2017) Board Game

Jungle Joust is a board game released in 2017, designed by Josh Cappel and published by IDW Games. It falls under the categories of Animals, Card Game, Fantasy, and Medieval. The game is designed for 2-6 players, with a runtime of 30-45 minutes and is suitable for ages 12 and up. The game mechanics involve betting and bluffing, adding an element of strategy and deception to the gameplay.

Game Components of Jungle Joust

Riders and fence pieces

Betting Chits (3-point and 2-point)

Money

Debt tokens

Favor tokens

Allegiance Tokens (red and black crests)

Card deck with various symbols (Strength, Defense, Accuracy, and Movement)

Board

How To Setup Jungle Joust

To set up Jungle Joust, start by assembling the riders and the fence, then place these pieces on the board. The riders hang off the edge, with the rhino’s nose at the front. Set out the Betting Chits, ensuring the 3-point chit is on top of the 2-point chit. Place the money and Debt tokens nearby. Shuffle the card deck, placing two cards next to it to form the tableau, and deal two cards to each player. Distribute Allegiance Tokens based on player count: for two players, one gets a black crest and the other a red crest; for three to four players, shuffle and deal one crest per player; for five to six players, deal one crest per player, setting aside any unused ones.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Play: Players must play at least one card to a rider’s column each turn, matching symbols and colors.

Actions:

Strength (Gauntlet): Move the other rider back one space and discard the topmost card of their tilt.

Defense (Shield): Draw an extra card and set it aside without looking.

Accuracy (Target): Take a card from the tableau for betting.

Movement (Arrow): No action.

Betting: Use cards to bet on the outcome of the match.

Favor Tokens: Gain extra tokens by crossing starred spaces on the board.

Objective: Bet strategically to win the match without going into debt.

Player Experience

Jungle Joust offers a unique blend of strategy and luck, making it appealing to a wide range of players. The gameplay is straightforward, but the scoring and betting mechanics can be complex. This makes it a good fit for family gaming sessions, especially with younger players, as it is easy to learn but challenging to master.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple gameplay mechanics.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for younger players.

Betting Element: Adds a layer of strategy and excitement.

Thematic Engagement: Immersive underground gambling theme.

Cons

Complex Scoring: Scoring rules can be confusing.

Random Elements: Too many random factors can make the game unpredictable.

Limited Strategic Depth: May not appeal to hardcore strategy gamers.

Personal Thoughts on Jungle Joust

Jungle Joust is ideal for families and casual gamers who enjoy a mix of strategy and luck. While it may not satisfy those seeking deep strategic gameplay, it offers a fun and engaging experience that is perfect for lighter gaming sessions. The game’s thematic elements and betting mechanics make it an interesting addition to any game collection, especially for those looking for a game that is both accessible and entertaining.

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