Pocket Madness (2016) Board Game

Pocket Madness is a card game that was released in 2016 by Arclight Games. Designed by Bruno Cathala and Ludovic Maublanc, the game is set in the horror genre and is suitable for 2 to 4 players. With a runtime of approximately 30 minutes and an age rating of 8+, Pocket Madness is a fast-paced and engaging game that challenges players’ hand management and set collection skills.

Game Components of Pocket Madness

Pocket Madness game board

70 Madness cards

20 Investigation cards

4 Reference cards

1 First Player marker

10 Investigation markers

How To Setup Pocket Madness

Shuffle the Madness cards and place them face down in the center of the table.

Shuffle the Investigation cards and deal 3 to each player.

Place the Investigation markers near the board.

Give each player a Reference card.

Choose a first player and give them the First Player marker.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Pocket Madness, players take turns drawing Madness cards from the central deck and adding them to their personal collection. The objective of the game is to collect sets of Madness cards that correspond to the Investigation cards in your hand. Players must carefully manage their hand and plan their moves strategically to outwit their opponents and complete their Investigations.

Player Experience

Pros:

Quick gameplay that is easy to learn

Engaging theme and artwork

Strategic depth in hand management and set collection

Cons:

Limited replayability

Luck-based card drawing mechanics

Personal Thoughts on Pocket Madness

Pocket Madness offers a fun and engaging gaming experience for players looking for a quick and challenging card game. While the game may lack long-term replayability, its thematic elements and strategic gameplay make it a worthwhile addition to any game night. The build quality of the game is solid, and its pricing is reasonable for the amount of entertainment it provides.

For fans of horror-themed games or those who enjoy hand management and set collection mechanics, Pocket Madness is definitely worth your time. However, casual gamers or those looking for more complex gameplay may find it lacking. Overall, Pocket Madness is a great choice for families, casual gamers, and horror enthusiasts looking for a quick and enjoyable gaming experience.

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