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Round the World with Nellie Bly (1890)

ByMichail

Round the World with Nellie Bly

“Round the World with Nellie Bly” is a board game based on the journey of journalist Nellie Bly, who traveled around the world in 72 days in 1889-1890. The game was created by the McLoughlin Brothers publishing firm and distributed in 1890 during the height of Bly’s fame. The game features squares for each of the 73 days of her journey arranged in a spiral, with images of Bly and her various modes of transportation.

Why is Round the World with Nellie Bly Popular?

The game is significant because it was created during a time when Bly was a popular figure, and it allowed people to experience her journey in a fun and interactive way. The game also reflects the cultural fascination with travel and adventure during the late 19th century.

Game Components of Round the World with Nellie Bly

  • Game Board:** Features a circular pattern representing the 73 days of Nellie Bly’s journey, with images of Bly, Jules Verne, steamships, and trains.
  • Spinners:** Used to determine player movements.
  • Wooden Pieces:** Representing players, moved around the board.
  • Prints and Illustrations:** Including portraits of Nellie Bly and Jules Verne, as well as scenes from her journey.

    How To Setup Round the World with Nellie Bly

    To set up the game, players place their wooden pieces at the starting point on the board, which represents New York. Each player selects a spinner to determine how many spaces they can move on their turn. The game board is arranged in a circular pattern, reflecting the global journey of Nellie Bly.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Movement:** Players use spinners to determine the number of spaces they can move on each turn.
  • Route-building:** Players trace Nellie Bly’s route around the world, visiting various locations depicted on the board.
  • Objective:** The first player to complete the entire journey around the world wins.
  • Educational Element:** Players learn about Nellie Bly’s historical journey and the places she visited.

    Player Experience

    Playing “Round the World with Nellie Bly” offers a unique blend of education and entertainment. Players get to relive Bly’s historic journey, learning about her adventures and the challenges she faced. The game provides a sense of excitement and competition as players race to complete the journey first.

    Pros

  • Educational Value:** Teaches players about Nellie Bly’s journey and historical context.
  • Historical Significance:** Based on a real-life event, making it interesting for history enthusiasts.
  • Simple Mechanics:** Easy to understand and play, suitable for all ages.
  • Historical Figures:** Includes notable figures like Jules Verne, adding a layer of cultural knowledge.

    Cons

  • Limited Complexity:** The gameplay mechanics are relatively simple and may not appeal to players seeking complex strategies.
  • Outdated Design:** The game’s design and components are from the 19th century, which might look antiquated compared to modern board games.

    Personal Thoughts on Round the World with Nellie Bly

    “Round the World with Nellie Bly” is a charming and educational game that is ideal for those interested in history, travel, and the pioneering spirit of Nellie Bly. While it may not offer the depth and complexity of modern board games, it provides a nostalgic and informative experience. This game is perfect for families, history buffs, and anyone looking to learn about a remarkable woman who defied the odds of her time.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl