Plague! (1991) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Plague! is a tabletop board game released in 1991 by B&B Productions. The game is set in a medieval world where players take on the role of different animals trying to survive and thrive in a time of plague. With its unique theme and gameplay mechanics, Plague! offers a challenging and interactive experience for 2 to 4 players.

Game Components of Plague!

Game Board: A stylized map of Europe.

Dice: One 12-sided die and one 6-sided die.

Wagons: Normal playing pawns.

Counters: Round cardboard counters for cats, rats, fleas, and “Mac the Vac”.

Rat Bag: A bag for dispensing rats.

Black Death Cards: A set of 55 event cards.

Scoring Pad: Titled “In Remembrance”.

How To Setup Plague!

To set up the game, players start by placing their wagons at the stables. Each player’s goal is to collect and transport bodies to the burial site. The game board is marked with various locations, including houses that yield different numbers of bodies. Players also distribute the Black Death Cards and prepare the Rat Bag and other counters.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement and Collection: Use the 12-sided die to move the wagon and collect bodies, and the 6-sided die to march an army of fleas and rats against opponents.

Rat and Flea Management: Rats can block roads and trap wagons, while fleas can infect wagon drivers, causing them to lose a load of bodies. Cats can help eliminate rats.

Black Death Cards: These cards introduce random events that can be beneficial or detrimental to players.

Objective: The first player to deliver 99 bodies to the burial site wins the game.

Player Experience

**Plague** is a game of sneaky strategy and robust “hit the leader” mechanisms. It is best played with 3 or 4 players, although it can be played with 2 players with some adjustments to enhance gameplay. The game’s character changes with the number of players, requiring more aggressive play with fewer players to keep the game engaging.

Pros

Unique Theme: Players take on the role of the plague, adding a darkly humorous twist.

Strategic Depth: Combines strategy with random elements from the Black Death Cards.

Interactive: Players can hinder each other’s progress using rats and fleas.

Variety: Includes various counters and event cards that add complexity and replayability.

Cons

Randomness: The heavy random element from the Black Death Cards can spoil carefully laid plans.

Limited Player Count: Best with 3 or 4 players; two-player games can be less dynamic.

Complex Setup: Requires careful distribution of components and understanding of the rules.

Personal Thoughts on Plague!

**Plague** is ideal for players who enjoy a mix of strategy and luck, and are not averse to a bit of dark humor. It is particularly suited for those who like racing and competitive games with a unique twist. While it may not be for everyone due to its thematic content, it offers a unique gaming experience that stands out from more conventional board games.

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