Outburst! (1986) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Outburst! is a classic party game that was first released in in 1986. Designed by Brian Hersch, the game has been a popular choice for game nights and gatherings due to its fast-paced and trivia-based gameplay. With its simple rules and engaging mechanics, Outburst! has stood the test of time and remained a favorite among players.

Game Components of Outburst!

Topic Cards: Each card has a topic and 10 target answers, printed on both sides, but only one side is played at a time.

Special Viewer: Prevents the card from being read (except the topic heading) until placed in the viewer.

Dice: Used to determine bonus points for certain answers.

Game Board or Scoreboard: To keep track of points, with scoring pegs for each team.

Timer: To limit the time teams have to guess answers.

How To Setup Outburst!

To set up Outburst!, divide players into two teams. Each team should be ready to take turns drawing Topic Cards. The game board or scoreboard is set up to track points, and the special viewer is prepared for use. The dice are kept handy for determining bonus points.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Teams Compete: Two teams play against each other.

Guessing Answers: Teams must guess items listed on the Topic Card within a time limit.

Scoring: Points are awarded based on the number of correct guesses. One item on each card may have a bonus point value determined by a dice roll.

Passing Topics: Teams can pass on a topic up to three times during the game, forcing the other team to play it on their next turn.

Winning Condition: The first team to reach 60 points wins.

Player Experience

Outburst offers a dynamic and interactive experience, encouraging team collaboration and quick thinking. The game is perfect for social gatherings and parties, as it engages all players simultaneously, fostering a lively and competitive atmosphere.

Pros

Engaging Team Play: Encourages collaboration and communication among team members.

Varied Topics: Covers a wide range of topics, keeping the game interesting and challenging.

Fast-Paced: The time limit adds an element of excitement and urgency.

Adaptable: Can be played with a large number of players, from 2 to 99.

Cons

Luck Element: Previous editions relied on a game board, which introduced an element of luck. However, newer editions have minimized this.

Difficulty Level: Some topics can be too hard or inappropriate for children.

Potential for Confusion: With multiple players speaking at once, it can get chaotic.

Personal Thoughts on Outburst!

Outburst is ideal for those who enjoy trivia, team-based games, and fast-paced action. It’s a great addition to any game night or social event, appealing to adults and older teenagers due to its complex topics and engaging gameplay. While it may not be suitable for younger children due to some of the content, the *Outburst Junior* version caters to a younger audience. Overall, it’s a game that combines intelligence, teamwork, and fun, making it a standout in the world of party games.

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.