Robots! (1980) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Robots! is a science fiction board game released in in 1980. Designed by Alvin Belflower, Bob Bingham, R. Vance Buck, Allen D. Eldridge, and Stephen G. Wilcox, this game is set in a futuristic world where players control robots in combat. With a hexagon grid board and dice rolling mechanics, Robots! offers a unique gameplay experience in the wargame genre.

Game Components of Robots!

12 cards with a race track on one side and speed/item information on the other

50 wooden discs (chips) for scoring

Simple rulebook

How To Setup Robots!

To set up the game, shuffle the 12 cards and lay them out in a pile with the race track side facing up. Place the 50 wooden discs nearby to be awarded during the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative Play: Players work together to guess where the robot stops on the track.

Time Perception: The robot player announces a speed (slow, normal, fast) and moves along the track based on that speed.

Guessing: Other players guess which item on the track the robot stopped at.

Scoring: Players receive chips based on the accuracy of their guesses (three chips for a correct guess, two chips if one item off, one chip if two items off).

Rounds: The game is played over 11 rounds, with each player taking turns as the robot.

Objective: Accumulate as many chips as possible; the team wins if they collect over 25 chips.

Player Experience

“Robots” provides a unique and interactive way to teach children about time and speed. The game is simple yet engaging, making it perfect for younger players. As players take turns being the robot, they learn to adjust their perception of time based on the group’s feedback. This process helps players synchronize their understanding of speed, leading to more accurate guesses over the course of the game.

Pros

Educational: Introduces children to the concept of time and speed perception.

Interactive: Encourages teamwork and communication.

Portable: Easy to take along to restaurants or car rides.

Simple to Learn: Easy rules make it accessible for younger children.

Adjustable Difficulty: Can be played with or without different speeds for younger kids.

Cons

Limited Complexity: May not be engaging for older players or those seeking more complex gameplay.

Dependent on Group Dynamics: The game’s enjoyment can vary based on how well the group communicates and adjusts their time perception.

Personal Thoughts on Robots!

“Robots” is an excellent game for families with younger children, as it teaches a valuable concept in a fun and interactive way. The game’s simplicity and cooperative nature make it ideal for kids aged 5 and above. While it may not offer the complexity that older players might seek, it is a great tool for introducing children to the nuances of time perception and teamwork.

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