An image of a vintage game box titled "KUNG FU 2100" with the tagline "Desperate battles against an immortal dictator". The cover artwork depicts a futuristic martial arts battle scene with two main characters in the foreground and others fighting in the background. The game is designed by B. Dennis Sustare and published by Steve Jackson Games.
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Kung Fu 2100 (1980)

ByMichail

Kung Fu 2100

Kung Fu 2100 is a board game published by Steve Jackson Games in 1980 that simulates martial arts combat. The game was developed by Dennis Sustare, who had previously designed the role-playing game Bunnies and Burrows. It was initially published in The Space Gamer, a magazine that published art and game ideas, and later published by Steve Jackson Games as a microgame. The game gained popularity due to its unique theme and innovative Gameplay Mechanics of Kung Fu 2100.

Why is Kung Fu 2100 Popular?

Kung Fu 2100 is popular for several reasons:Unique Theme: The game simulates martial arts combat in a futuristic setting, which was a novel concept at the time of its release.Innovative Gameplay Mechanics of Kung Fu 2100: The game introduced a new approach to wargaming by incorporating martial arts combat and counter-based systems.Compact Design: The game came in a small container, making it easy to store and transport.

Game Components of Kung Fu 2100

  • Fortress map
  • Counters
  • Rulebook
  • Record sheets

    How To Setup Kung Fu 2100

    To set up **Kung Fu 2100**, players prepare the fortress map, distribute the counters, and assign roles: one player takes on the role of a Terminator from the Society of Thanatos, while the other plays as the CloneMaster. Each player receives the relevant record sheets. The game is ready to start once the map is laid out and the initial positions of the characters are determined.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Gameplay Phases: Multiple phases of movement, combat, and recovery within each turn.
  • Combat System: Hand-to-hand combat using tactics like Iron Fist, Lightning Foot, Monkey Soul, and Body of Mist, with results determined by a combat results table.
  • Objective:
    – Terminator: Attack the CloneMaster fortress to slay the CloneMaster.
    – CloneMaster: Prevent the Terminator from succeeding.

    Player Experience

    **Kung Fu 2100** offers a unique and engaging experience with its blend of martial arts and sci-fi elements. The game is designed for two players, with an option for solo play, making it versatile for different gaming scenarios. The combat mechanics are easy to use yet flavorful, adding a layer of strategy and excitement to each encounter.

    Pros

  • Unique Setting: Combines cloning, martial arts, and a post-apocalyptic world.
  • Simple yet Strategic Combat: Easy-to-use combat system with tactical depth.
  • Solo Play Option: Allows for play even when no other players are available.
  • Compact and Portable: Typical of micro-games, it is easy to carry and set up.

    Cons

  • Limited Players: Designed primarily for two players or solo play.
  • Simplistic Components: While this is typical of micro-games, some may find the components too basic.

    Personal Thoughts on Kung Fu 2100

    **Kung Fu 2100** is ideal for players who enjoy quirky, thematic games with a strong narrative backdrop. It is particularly suited for fans of martial arts and sci-fi, as well as those who appreciate the simplicity and portability of micro-games. The game’s premise and mechanics make it a great candidate for expansion into a full RPG or campaign setting, offering a rich and imaginative world to explore.

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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