Panic Island! (2017) Board Game

Panic Island! is a real-time cooperative board game that was released in 2017 by Blue Orange Games. Designed by Antonin Boccara and illustrated by Michel Verdú, this game is suitable for players aged 8 and above. The game involves players working together to escape an island before it sinks into the ocean.

Game Components of Panic Island!

Cards dealt face down on the table

Volcano, raft, and paddle pieces

Red and yellow native characters

Dodos and dodo eggs

Various obstacle cards

How To Setup Panic Island!

To set up the game, cards are dealt face down in rows on the table. Players choose the volcano, raft, and paddle, as well as the red and yellow natives, dodos, and dodo eggs. Three types of obstacle cards are also selected for each game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative Gameplay: Players work together.

Time Limit: The game must be completed within 2 minutes.

Card Drawing: Players take turns drawing two cards at a time.

Exploration: Explore the island to rescue inhabitants.

Objective: Find the raft and paddle to escape the island before the volcano erupts.

Traps and Obstacles: Avoid traps that waste precious time.

Player Experience

Panic Island offers an adrenaline-packed experience with a simple yet thrilling objective. Players must rush against the clock to rescue as many inhabitants as possible while navigating through traps and obstacles. The game promotes teamwork and quick decision-making, making it an exciting and interactive experience.

Pros

Quick and Engaging: Games last only 2 minutes, making it a fast-paced and engaging experience.

Cooperative: Encourages teamwork and coordination among players.

Simple to Learn: Easy rules make it accessible to new players.

High Replayability: Random card draws and varied obstacles ensure each game is different.

Cons

Time Pressure: The 2-minute time limit can be stressful for some players.

Limited Depth: The game mechanics are simple and may not offer the complexity some players prefer.

Dependence on Luck: Card draws can significantly influence the outcome, which may frustrate some players.

Personal Thoughts on Panic Island!

Panic Island is ideal for families, casual gamers, and those who enjoy quick, cooperative games. It is particularly suited for younger players due to its simple rules and fast-paced gameplay. However, players seeking more complex or strategic games might find it lacking in depth. Overall, it is a fun and adrenaline-filled game that is perfect for a quick gaming session.

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