PUSH (2018) Board Game – Board Game Guys

PUSH is a card game released in 2018 by Ravensburger. It was designed by Prospero Hall and Brian Kirk, with artwork also done by Prospero Hall. The game falls under the category of card games and features a push-your-luck mechanism. It is suitable for players aged 8 and above, and can accommodate 2 to 6 players.

Game Components of PUSH

120 cards with numbers and colors

6-sided die

Rulebook

How To Setup PUSH

To set up PUSH, shuffle the 120-card deck and place it within reach of all players. If playing with two players, it is advisable to remove the Switch (or Reverse) cards as they do not add significant value in this scenario. Each player starts with an empty bench area where they will collect their cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Drawing Cards: Players draw cards one at a time and place them into one of three columns, ensuring no column contains the same number or color.

Busting: If a player draws a card that cannot be placed, they bust, roll the die, and discard matching colored cards from their bench.

Roll Cards: If a Roll card is drawn, it must be placed in a column. The player who takes this column must roll the die and discard matching colored cards.

Switch Cards: These cards change the direction of player selection for the stacks.

Banking: Players can choose to bank cards of a single color, making them safe from future discards.

Objective: The goal is to collect and score the most points by the end of the game when the deck runs out.

Player Experience

PUSH is a game that balances simplicity with strategic decision-making. Players must weigh the risks of drawing more cards against the potential rewards, making it engaging and exciting. The game encourages interaction as players can suggest strategies to the active player, adding a social element. With a playtime of about 20-25 minutes, it is suitable for a quick, fun session with friends or family.

Pros

Simple Rules: Easy to learn and teach, making it accessible to new gamers.

Quick Gameplay: Games are short and engaging.

Strategic Depth: Despite simple rules, there is room for strategic thinking.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 8 and above.

Portable: The game has a small footprint, making it easy to transport.

Cons

Luck Factor: The game heavily involves luck, which may not appeal to all players.

Length with Few Players: The game can drag on slightly with fewer players.

Not Color Blind Friendly: The cards lack symbols to differentiate colors, making it challenging for color-blind players.

Personal Thoughts on PUSH

PUSH is an excellent choice for those looking for a light, fun push-your-luck game. It is ideal for family game nights, casual gatherings, or introducing new players to more complex card games. The game’s simplicity and strategic elements make it enjoyable for both younger and experienced gamers. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking deeply thematic or complex games. For those who enjoy a mix of luck and strategy in a quick, easy-to-learn package, PUSH is a great addition to any game collection.

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