Mbogo (1966) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Mbogo is a classic board game that was released in 1966 by the House of Ideas. It is a card game designed for 2-6 players and is suitable for children. The game revolves around set collection mechanics and has a runtime of around 20 minutes.

Game Components of Mbogo

43 Animal Cards

7 Hunter cards

11 Trap cards

A deck of cards including the formidable Mbogo card, representing the African Cape Buffalo.

How To Setup Mbogo

To set up the game, one player deals 8 cards face down to each player. The remaining cards are placed face down in the center of the table. This central pile will serve as the draw pile for the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective

The goal is to be the first player to dispose of all the cards in your hand by creating “Herds” or “Capturing” jungle animals.

Gameplay Mechanics

Drawing Cards: Players draw a card at random and add it to their hand.

Creating Herds: Players form sets of 3 or 4 of the same kind of animal to create “Herds” or “Safe Herds”.

Capturing Animals: Players capture animals using a combination of 1 animal, 1 Hunter, and 1 Trap card.

Mbogo Action: If a player draws the Mbogo card, it attacks a cage of another player, releasing all the animals from that cage into the center of the table.

Player Experience

Playing Mbogo is a fast-paced and exciting experience, especially with the unpredictable element of the Mbogo card. The game requires strategic thinking and a bit of luck, making it engaging for both children and adults. The inclusion of the Mbogo card adds a layer of excitement and risk, as it can significantly alter the game’s outcome.

Pros

Fast-paced Gameplay: The game is quick to play, lasting around 20 minutes.

Strategic Depth: Players need to think strategically to form herds and capture animals.

Exciting Element: The Mbogo card adds an element of surprise and risk.

Family-friendly: Suitable for children and adults alike.

Cons

Luck Factor: The game involves a significant amount of luck in drawing the right cards.

Simple Mechanics: Some players might find the game mechanics too simple.

Out of Print: The game is no longer widely available, making it difficult to obtain a copy.

Personal Thoughts on Mbogo

Mbogo is an excellent game for families or casual gamers looking for a quick, fun experience. It’s particularly suited for children due to its simple yet engaging mechanics. However, for serious gamers seeking complex strategies, Mbogo might not offer enough depth. The game’s unique use of the Mbogo card adds a thrilling element that keeps players on their toes, making it a delightful addition to any game collection.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.