Make ‘n’ Break CHALLENGE (2009) Board Game

Make ‘n’ Break CHALLENGE is a dexterity and stacking game that was released in 2009 by Ravensburger. It is a twist on the original Make ‘n’ Break game, adding new challenges and variations to the gameplay. The game is designed for 2-4 players, with a runtime of around 30 minutes, making it a quick and engaging game for all ages.

Game Components of Make ‘n’ Break CHALLENGE

20 wooden blocks (including 2 red triangles, 2 blue cubes, 2 red cylinders, 2 green rectangles, 1 blue crescent, and 1 orange “bridge”)

2 wooden tongs

80 building cards

A transparent card holder

How To Setup Make ‘n’ Break CHALLENGE

To set up the game, the building cards are shuffled and placed in a draw deck. The wooden blocks are sorted into two identical groups and laid out on the table, each group accompanied by a pair of wooden tongs. For games with more than two players, the youngest player competes against the oldest player in the first round, with other players acting as inactive observers who manage the game flow.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Players use wooden tongs to build structures shown on the building cards. Each player must keep their hand behind a mark on the tongs, adding to the challenge.

Game Objective: The first player to complete the structure on the card earns the points indicated on the card. The game involves three duels per round, with players rotating roles after each set of duels.

Building Cards:
– Exact structure cards: Players must build the structure exactly as illustrated.
– Height challenge cards: Players must stack a specified number of pieces on top of each other, with only two pieces touching the table.
– Shape-specific cards: Players must use specified shapes without color assignments.
– Organ pipe cards: Players must line up six pieces in descending height from left to right.

Player Experience

Make ‘n’ Break CHALLENGE is a tense and entertaining game that tests players’ manual dexterity and composure under pressure. The use of wooden tongs to handle slippery and heavy blocks adds a significant challenge, making the game both frustrating and exhilarating. The variety of building cards ensures that each round is different, keeping the game engaging and unpredictable. Spectators can also add to the pressure and excitement, especially when played in teams.

Pros

Engaging Gameplay: The combination of time pressure and physical challenge makes the game highly engaging.

Variety of Challenges: Different types of building cards keep the game interesting and demanding.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 8 and above, making it a great family game.

Durable Components: The game pieces are solid and durable, with elegant packaging.

Cons

Frustration Factor: The difficulty level can lead to frustration, especially for younger players.

Space Requirements: The game requires a stable and spacious table to prevent accidents and ensure fair play.

Cost: The game can be pricey, especially considering the number of components.

Personal Thoughts on Make ‘n’ Break CHALLENGE

Make ‘n’ Break CHALLENGE is an excellent choice for families and groups looking for a game that combines physical skill, strategy, and a bit of luck. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy competitive games that require precision and quick thinking. However, it may not be the best fit for very young children due to the potential for frustration and the need for fine motor skills. Overall, it offers a fun and challenging experience that can be enjoyed by a wide range of players.

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