POW! (2016) Board Game – Board Game Guys

POW! is a dice game designed by Jonathan Aucomte and released in in 2016. It is a quick-playing game that is suitable for 2 to 5 players, with a recommended age of 8 and up. The game is all about rolling dice, pushing your luck, and trying to outwit your opponents to come out on top.

Game Components of Escape from Colditz

Game Board: A pictorial plan of Colditz Castle showing inner and outer courtyards, rooms, safe areas, cells, and barracks.

Tokens: Five sets of eight tokens for different nationalities of POWs, and one set of sixteen black tokens for German guards.

Cards: “Personal Escape Kit” cards, “Do or Die” cards, “Escape Equipment” cards, “Escape Opportunity” cards, and “Security Opportunity” cards.

Dice: Two six-sided dice.

Additional Items: Rules sheet, historical account of the castle, and in the deluxe edition, an oversized board, 56 wooden playing pieces, and a history booklet.

How To Setup Escape from Colditz

To set up the game, one player takes on the role of the German Security Officer and places the black tokens on designated spots on the board and in the barracks. The other players choose their nationality of POWs and place their tokens on the Parade Ground in the inner courtyard. Each Escape Officer receives a “Do or Die” card, which remains face down until played. Players agree on a time limit and the number of successful escapes required for victory.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Movement: Players roll two dice to move their POWs, with the option to roll again if doubles are rolled.

Obtain Personal Escape Kit: POWs must gather four elements (food, disguises, maps, and a compass) by moving into specific rooms.

Collect Equipment: POWs need to gather specific equipment for their chosen escape route.

Avoid Guards: Guards can arrest POWs, sending them to solitary confinement.

Escape Attempt: POWs attempt to escape by reaching target areas on the board without being caught.

Do or Die Card: Allows a POW to attempt an escape without equipment, using a set number of dice rolls.

Game Objective: The goal is for the Escape Officers to help two POWs escape, while the German Security Officer aims to prevent this.

Player Experience

Playing “Escape from Colditz” immerses players in the historical context of the real-life escape attempts from Colditz Castle during World War II. The game requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and a bit of luck. Players must coordinate their efforts, trade equipment, and watch the guards’ movements closely to find opportunities for escape. The game is praised for its historical richness, engaging theme, and the thrilling experience of attempting to escape the castle.

Pros

Historical Richness: The game is based on real-life events and includes a detailed history booklet.

Engaging Theme: The escape theme is highly immersive and emotionally engaging.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and coordination among players.

Beautiful Artwork: The 75th Anniversary Edition features new hand-painted artwork and detailed components.

Replayability: Various escape routes and card combinations ensure high replayability.

Cons

Complex Rules: Some players find the rules unclear or flawed.

Long Gameplay: The game can take 90-120 minutes to play, especially with more players.

Unstable Components: The wooden tokens can topple over easily.

Personal Thoughts on Escape from Colditz

“Escape from Colditz” is perfect for those who enjoy strategic games with a rich historical context. It’s ideal for players who appreciate detailed gameplay and are willing to invest time in planning and executing escape attempts. The game is suitable for families and groups of friends looking for a challenging and immersive experience. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking quick, light-hearted games due to its complexity and length.

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.