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Ruffhouse (1980) Board Game

ByMichail

Ruffhouse is a classic board game that was first released in 1980 by Parker Brothers. It is a roll and move game designed for 2-4 players, with a runtime of approximately 60 minutes. The game is recommended for players aged 8 and up, making it suitable for both kids and adults.

Game Components of Ruffhouse

  • Game board**
  • 20 Numbered cards**
    – 4 #1 cards
    – 4 #2 cards
    – 4 #3 cards
    – 4 #4 cards
    – 4 #5 cards

  • 12 Zap cards**
  • 8 Doublecross cards**
  • Cemented pawns**
    – 1 Red pawn
    – 1 Blue pawn
    – 1 Green pawn
    – 1 Yellow pawn

  • 2 Standard 6-sided dice**
  • 1 Spinner and spinner pole**
  • 30 Plastic chips**
    – 25 Yellow chips (worth 1 point each)
    – 5 Blue chips (worth 5 points each)

  • Rules**

    How To Setup Ruffhouse

    To set up Ruffhouse, each player selects a pawn and places it at the starting position on the board. No player starts with any chips. The numbered cards, Zap cards, and Doublecross cards are distributed or placed within reach. The spinner and dice are also made available. The game is ready to begin once all components are in place.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective:** Be the first player to earn 5 points.
  • Gameplay Mechanics:**
  • Rolling Dice:** Players roll the dice to determine how many spaces to move.
  • Spinner:** Landing on certain spaces requires spinning the spinner, which can award chips.
  • Zap and Doublecross Cards:** These cards can either penalize or benefit players, adding an element of unpredictability.
  • Chip Collection:** Players collect yellow and blue chips, with blue chips being more valuable.
  • Point System:** Players earn points by accumulating chips that match the values on their numbered cards.

    Player Experience

    Ruffhouse offers a dynamic and unpredictable gaming experience. Players must navigate through a series of challenges and strategic decisions, including the use of Zap and Doublecross cards to disrupt or benefit from other players’ turns. The game’s design, with large numbers and letters on the board, adds to its nostalgic and visually appealing nature.

    Pros

  • Unpredictability:** The game’s use of Zap and Doublecross cards keeps players on their toes.
  • Strategic Depth:** Players need to balance chip collection with strategic card play.
  • Visual Appeal:** The board’s retro design is both fun and easy to read.
  • Family-Friendly:** Suitable for players aged 8 and above.

    Cons

  • Luck Factor:** The spinner and card draws introduce a significant element of luck.
  • Complex Rules:** Some rules, especially regarding the spinner and card interactions, can be confusing.

    Personal Thoughts on Ruffhouse

    Ruffhouse is ideal for families or groups of friends looking for a fun, light-hearted yet strategically engaging game. Its unpredictable nature makes it appealing to those who enjoy games with unexpected twists. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking games with minimal luck and straightforward rules. For those who enjoy retro board games with a nostalgic feel, Ruffhouse is a great addition to any game collection.

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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

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