A board game named "MEGA-MANIA" lies on a wooden surface, featuring vivid illustration of futuristic police in combat, with the text "Every block for itself", and "A 2000 A.D. Judge Dredd boardgame expansion set by Richard Halliwell" on the cover.
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Block Mania: Mega-Mania (1987)

ByMichail

Mega-Mania

“Mega-Mania” is a board game published by Games Workshop in 1987 as an expansion for “Block Mania,” which is based on the Judge Dredd comics. The game was designed by Richard Halliwell and featured artwork by Dave Andrews, Chris Baker, Colin Dixon, and Brett Ewins. It allows players to experience a block war in Mega-City One, where residents of different city blocks must cause as much harm as possible to each other before the Judges arrive to restore order.

Why is Mega-Mania Popular?

“Mega-Mania” is popular and significant because it is an expansion of “Block Mania,” which itself is a classic board game from the 1980s based on the Judge Dredd storyline. The game has gained a cult following among fans of the comic series and board games in general. It offers a unique and entertaining experience, combining action and strategy in a chaotic and unpredictable setting.

Game Components of Block Mania: Mega-Mania

  • Boards:** Two vertical side-view boards of city blocks, connected by Mega-Ways, Pedways, and a Sky-Rail.
  • Counters:** Blockers, City-Def units, Crocks, Juvies, Spugs, Futsies, Fatties, Mobs, and alien Kleggs.
  • Hardware and Armoury:** Flamers, missile defence lasers, missile launchers, spit guns, stump guns, and more.
  • Mania Cards:** Used as a game timer, with Justice and Mania sides.
  • Dice:** Two six-sided dice for generating Command Points.
  • Expansion:** Mega-Mania allows up to four players and includes additional components like Robo-Dogs, Sucker Guns, and trip mines.

    How To Setup Block Mania: Mega-Mania

    Setup involves placing the two boards side-by-side, each player receiving three Mania cards and four random Blocker counters along with their Hardware or Armoury counters. The rest of the counters are placed face down in cups or stacks. Players randomly place their counters within their block. The game also sets aside sixteen Mania cards for the Endgame phase.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Mechanics:** Dice rolling, action points, and card drawing.
  • Game Objective:** Each player controls a block and aims to cause as much damage as possible to the rival block before the Judges intervene.
  • Phases:** Command, Defensive Fire, Combat, and End Phase.
  • Command Phase:** Roll dice to generate Command Points, deploy and move Blockers.
  • Defensive Fire Phase:** Opponent can take shots at nearby enemy counters.
  • Combat Phase:** Resolve attacks, which can include shooting, close combat, looting, arson, and more.
  • End Phase:** Check for fires and structural damage, draw a Mania card.
  • Endgame:** When the Mania deck is exhausted, players use the Justice side of the cards to remove Blockers. The game ends when the last Blocker is removed or both blocks collapse.

    Player Experience

    Block Mania offers a fast-paced and chaotic experience, reflecting the dystopian and satirical world of Judge Dredd. Players engage in intense battles, using a variety of units and equipment to wreak havoc on the opposing block. The game’s theme is heavily rooted in the comic series, making it particularly appealing to fans of 2000 AD.

    Pros

  • Thematic Depth:** Captures the atmosphere of the Judge Dredd comics well.
  • Variety of Units:** Multiple types of Blockers and equipment add depth and replayability.
  • Fast-Paced:** Quick turns and constant action keep the game engaging.
  • Satirical Humor:** Reflects the distinctively British humor of the comic series.

    Cons

  • Limited Player Count:** Originally designed for two players, though the Mega-Mania expansion allows up to four.
  • Complexity:** While the rules are designed to be simple, the game’s mechanics can be overwhelming for new players.
  • Damage Accumulation:** Can be quite destructive, which might not appeal to all players.

    Personal Thoughts on Block Mania: Mega-Mania

    Block Mania: Mega-Mania is ideal for fans of the Judge Dredd universe and those who enjoy action-packed, thematic board games. It offers a unique blend of strategy and chaos, making it a great addition to any collection of games focused on conflict and destruction. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking a more strategic or cooperative gaming experience. The game’s satirical humor and fast-paced gameplay make it a standout in the world of board games, especially for those familiar with the comic series it is based on.

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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