Pandemic: Rapid Response (2019) Board Game

Pandemic: Rapid Response is a spin-off board game from the popular Pandemic series, designed by Kane Klenko and published by Z-Man Games in in 2019. Unlike the original Pandemic game which focuses on cooperative strategy and decision-making, Pandemic: Rapid Response adds a real-time element where players must work quickly to save the world from deadly diseases.

Game Components of Pandemic: Rapid Response

24 Dice (6 each of 4 colors)

20 Supply Crates (4 each of 5 colors)

4 Player Pawns

1 Plane with stand

24 City Cards

7 Role Cards

4 Reference Cards

15 Crisis Cards

1 Plane Board

1 Sand Timer

9 Time Tokens

1 Waste Marker

1 Rulebook.

How To Setup Pandemic: Rapid Response

To set up the game, place the plane board in the center of the play area. Set the waste marker on the first space of the waste track and place three time tokens on the HQ space. Arrange the supply crates in their respective color-coded rooms. Shuffle the City Cards, reveal one, and place the Plane Token on that space. Deal out a pawn to each player and remove that card from the game. Reveal additional City Cards based on the chosen difficulty level and create a deck of remaining City Cards. Shuffle the role cards and deal one to each player, along with a set of dice matching their player token. If desired, add Crisis Cards to the game for increased difficulty.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Real-Time Gameplay: Players take turns as quickly as possible.

Dice Rolling: Roll dice to create supplies, fly the plane, and make deliveries.

Variable Player Powers: Each role card features unique abilities.

Supply Creation: Use dice to manufacture vaccines, food, power, first aid, and water.

Crisis Cards: Add unexpected complications like extreme winds or supply spills.

Objective: Deliver the right supplies to all cities in need before time runs out. If successful, the team wins; if time runs out or the waste track gets too high, the team loses.

Player Experience

In **Pandemic: Rapid Response**, players work together as part of the Crisis Response Unit (CRU) to deliver life-saving aid to cities affected by natural disasters. The game is fast-paced, with a timer adding pressure to the teamwork. Players must coordinate quickly, using their unique abilities to overcome challenges. While the game requires strategic planning, it has been criticized for moments of downtime between players’ turns, which can feel lengthy and unengaging.

Pros

Fast and Engaging Setup: Simple setup process compared to other Pandemic games.

Real-Time Excitement: The timer adds a thrilling element, making the game feel urgent.

Unique Abilities: Role cards provide diverse strategies and teamwork opportunities.

Adjustable Difficulty: Add Crisis Cards to increase the challenge level.

Cooperative Spirit: Encourages teamwork and strategic communication among players.

Cons

Downtime Between Turns: Players can experience long waits between their turns, which can be frustrating.

Lack of Continuous Tension: Unlike other real-time games, the tension is not consistent throughout the game.

Ease of Difficulty: Even on higher difficulty levels, the game can be relatively easy to win, reducing replay value for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Pandemic: Rapid Response

**Pandemic: Rapid Response** is ideal for those who enjoy cooperative games and real-time challenges. It is particularly suited for families and casual gamers due to its relatively simple mechanics and quick gameplay. However, experienced gamers might find it lacks the depth and continuous tension they prefer. The game’s themes of humanitarian aid and teamwork make it a great choice for those looking for a cooperative experience that feels both urgent and rewarding.

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.