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NEON (2023) Board Game

ByMichail

NEON is a board game released in 2023 by Hobby World. Designed by Ekaterina Gorn and Igor Sklyuev, with artwork by Yuri Cherednik and Semyon Proskuryakov, NEON is a science fiction-themed game that incorporates elements of dice rolling, exploration, fighting, and market mechanics. It is designed for 2-6 players and has a runtime of 60-120 minutes. Players take on the roles of factions in a neon-lit world, vying for control and power.

Game Components of NEON

  • Game Board:** Features a shrinking area mechanism, visually and mechanically distinct from typical battle royale games.
  • Character Miniatures:** Represent biological avatars, battlemechs, or cyborgs.
  • Equipment Cards:** Include allusions to pop culture, such as “Bonnie and Clyde” and “Yūrei.”
  • Drop Ship:** Serves as a starting platform for players and holds the Scoreboard tokens.
  • Dice and Tokens:** Include HP tokens, search tokens, and energy tokens.
  • Achievement Sheet:** Tracks player achievements, similar to computer games.

    How To Setup NEON

    To set up NEON, players first decide which game mode to play: Resurrection, Battle, or Squad. Next, they place the search tokens, dice, and HP tokens (except in Battle mode) near the main arena. Each player chooses a leader and receives the start token. Players then draw two cards to their hand and draw a third card to choose their actions for the round.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Modes:**
  • Resurrection:** Players earn points; the fighter with the most points wins.
  • Battle:** Last fighter standing wins.
  • Squad:** Team game where players work together to earn the most points.
  • Phase One – Choosing Cards:** Players select three actions from their cards, considering initiative and action combinations.
  • Phase Two – Actions:** Players perform actions in initiative order, including moving, searching, fighting, defending, gaining energy, and taking over the leader token.
  • Phase Three – End Game Check:** Check if the win condition for the chosen mode is met.
  • Phase Four – Submission:** The fighting area reduces each round, forcing players into a smaller area.

    Player Experience

    NEON offers a dynamic and versatile gaming experience with multiple modes to cater to different player preferences. Players who enjoy risking and fighting will appreciate the Battle mode, while those who prefer a slower and more patient game will like the Resurrection mode. The game’s balance between unique character abilities, equipment effects, and the strategic use of actions ensures a engaging and challenging experience.

    Pros

  • Multiple Game Modes:** Offers variety to suit different player preferences.
  • Strategic Depth:** Combines card management, initiative, and action planning.
  • Thematic Integration:** Successfully merges battle royale and cyberpunk elements.
  • Pop Culture Allusions:** Adds a layer of fun and recognition with equipment card names.

    Cons

  • Complex Setup:** Requires careful setup and understanding of the different components and modes.
  • Learning Curve:** The multiple phases and action combinations can be overwhelming for new players.
  • Balance Issues:** Some players may find certain characters or equipment overly powerful.

    Personal Thoughts on NEON

    NEON is ideal for players who enjoy strategic gameplay, cyberpunk themes, and the excitement of battle royale mechanics. It is particularly suited for groups of players who appreciate versatility in game modes and are willing to invest time in understanding the game’s mechanics. For fans of games that blend action, strategy, and teamwork, NEON offers a unique and captivating experience.

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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

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