Leaping Lemmings (2010) Board Game

Leaping Lemmings is a board game released in 2010 that revolves around the humorous concept of lemmings trying to leap off a cliff and players trying to save as many as possible. Designed by Rajim Harris, Leo, Rodger B. MacGowan, and Mark Simonitch, the game is filled with animal-themed fun and strategic decision-making.

Game Components of Leaping Lemmings

1 Rulebook

1 mounted map board (17″ x 22″)

2 Eagle dice

101 die-cut cardboard counters

6 Clan player aid cards

1 deck of 55 playing cards

32 Lemming Chow Pellet markers

How To Setup Leaping Lemmings

To set up the game, players start by placing the mounted map board, which represents a canyon ending with a cliff edge. Each player selects a clan of 10 cloned lemmings and places them at the starting end of the canyon. The game includes 16 Lemming Chow Pellet markers that are placed on the map during setup, with the rest potentially coming into play later. Players are also dealt Special Action cards, which can be used to alter the game rules.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Movement: Each turn, a movement card is revealed, allowing 2-5 lemming movement points. All players use the same card.

Lemming Movement: Only the top lemming in each stack can move, with the option to move forward or one hex sideways.

Eagles: Two eagles circle the board, controlled by players, and can attack any clear hex within their hunting circle.

Special Actions: Players can use Special Action cards to their advantage or to hinder opponents.

Cliff Diving: Lemmings that dive off the cliff edge earn victory points, with additional points for dives with style.

Game Objective

The player with the most victory points wins by successfully diving their lemmings off the cliff and collecting Lemming Chow Pellets.

Player Experience

Playing **Leaping Lemmings** is a fun and chaotic experience, where players control their lemming clans in a race to the cliff edge while avoiding eagles and disrupting their opponents. The game is known for its light-hearted and somewhat morbid theme, where the goal is to get your lemmings to leap to their doom in the most stylish way possible. Players must balance moving their lemmings forward with using Special Action cards strategically and protecting their lemmings from the eagles.

Pros

Humorous Theme: The game’s silly and morbid theme adds to its entertainment value.

Interactive: Players can significantly affect each other’s progress through Special Action cards and eagle attacks.

Variable Playtime: The game can last from 30-90 minutes, depending on the number of players.

Strategic Depth: The use of Special Action cards and eagles adds a layer of strategy to the simple movement mechanics.

Cons

Luck Element: The game includes a significant luck factor due to the movement cards and eagle attacks.

Limited Replayability: Some players might find the game repetitive after several plays.

Not for Everyone: The theme, while humorous, might not appeal to players looking for more serious games.

Personal Thoughts on Leaping Lemmings

**Leaping Lemmings** is ideal for players who enjoy light-hearted, competitive games with a touch of humor and chaos. It’s a great choice for game nights with friends or family gatherings, especially for those who appreciate quirky themes and simple yet engaging gameplay mechanics. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking complex, strategic games or those who prefer more serious themes.

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