Micro Bots: Duel (2023) Board Game

Micro Bots: Duel is a futuristic science fiction board game designed by Gong Studios and published by Prometheus Game Labs. Released in 2023, this game is designed for two players and is set in a world where players control microbots battling it out on a duel board.

Game Components of Micro Bots: Duel

Cards: Representing various weapons and upgrades, life and energy tracks, and the bots themselves.

Support Tokens: Bolster attack and defense values.

Range Track: A cube tracking the distance between the robots, affecting defense values.

Power Tokens: 12x25mm tokens used for tracking power.

Domino Cards and US Mini Cards: 11 domino cards and 36 US mini cards.

Rulebook: Includes instructions for setup and gameplay.

Additional Components: Requires a mint tin or box for storage.

How To Setup Micro Bots: Duel

To set up the game, each player selects a bot and its corresponding cards. The life and energy tracks are initialized, and the range track is set to a starting position. Players shuffle their decks and draw a starting hand. The game is ready to play once all components are organized and each player understands their bot’s capabilities.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Play: Players play cards face-down, which are then revealed and played in order of initiative.

Initiative System: Cards have an initiative value that determines the order of play.

Weapon and Support Cards: Cards are eitherWeapon or Support type, affecting attack and defense values.

Range Mechanic: The distance between bots, tracked by a cube, influences defense values.

Objective: Outmaneuver and outwit your opponent by depleting their bot’s life points.

Player Experience

**Micro Bots: Duel** offers a sophisticated cardplay experience reminiscent of more complex games like **Gloomhaven**, but in a remarkably compact package. The game requires players to think tactically about card placement and timing, as the order of play significantly impacts the outcome. While the game relies heavily on imagination to visualize the robot battles, the presentation and iconography are commendable, making it easy to learn and play.

Pros

Sophisticated Cardplay: Complex mechanics in a small, affordable package.

Short Learning Curve: Easy to learn and start playing quickly.

Good Balance: Balanced gameplay across different bot combinations.

Affordable: Priced around £10-£20, depending on the region.

Expansions: The **Power Up** expansion adds new mechanics and bots, enhancing gameplay further.

Cons

Imagination Required: The game’s abstract nature means players must visualize the robot battles.

Limited Visual Representation: The distance and battle dynamics are not physically represented, relying on mental tracking.

Personal Thoughts on Micro Bots: Duel

**Micro Bots: Duel** is an excellent choice for fans of strategic card games and those who enjoy a good duel. It’s particularly suited for players who appreciate tactical depth without the need for extensive setup or a large budget. If you’re comfortable with using your imagination to enhance the gaming experience, this game is a great addition to your collection. The **Power Up** expansion is highly recommended to add more variety and depth to the gameplay.

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