Platypus (2021) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Platypus is a board game designed by Phil Walker-Harding and published by Matagot in in 2021. It falls under the deduction and party game categories, making it a fun and engaging option for game nights with friends and family.

Game Components of Platypus

Little board for word cards

Numbered cards describing 8 positions on the board

Two types of word cards: adjective cards and noun cards

No complex or numerous components, focusing mainly on word cards and a simple board setup.

How To Setup Platypus

To set up Platypus, players need to arrange the word cards on the board. The game involves dividing players into two groups: Guides and Explorers. The board is prepared by placing the noun cards in their designated positions. Guides are given a set of adjective cards to help the Explorers guess the correct noun, referred to as “the Platypus”.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: The Explorers aim to guess the hidden noun (“the Platypus”) using clues provided by the Guides through adjective cards.

Gameplay Mechanics:
– Players divide into Guides and Explorers.
– Guides use adjective cards to help Explorers eliminate incorrect noun cards.
– Explorers narrow down the options based on the adjective clues.
– Guides discard and draw cards strategically to maintain relevant clues.

Player Experience

Playing Platypus feels akin to a cooperative version of **Apples to Apples**. The game requires at least 3 players, with no solo mode available due to the reliance on contextual and collaborative guessing. Players need to communicate effectively, using the adjective cards to guide the Explorers towards the correct noun. However, the game can become frustrating if Guides receive irrelevant or “crappy” cards, limiting their ability to provide useful clues.

Pros

Cooperative Fun: Encourages teamwork and collaboration among players.

Simple Setup: Easy to prepare and start playing.

Engaging Mechanics: Involves strategic thinking and communication.

Distinctive Theme: Features a cute, cartoony platypus theme with an orange-blue color palette.

Cons

Limited Agency: Players feel constrained by the cards they receive, particularly if they are not relevant.

No Solo Mode: The game is not designed for solo play and cannot be adapted easily for it.

Dependence on Card Quality: The fun factor significantly diminishes if players get poor-quality cards.

Personal Thoughts on Platypus

Platypus is best suited for groups of 3-8 players looking for a light-hearted, cooperative party game. While it has the potential to be enjoyable, it falls short in providing enough player agency and relies heavily on the luck of the draw. With some house rules adjustments, it could become more engaging. However, as it stands, there are other cooperative party games that offer a more fulfilling experience.

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