SCRAP (2023) Board Game – Board Game Guys

SCRAP is a science fiction board game designed by Nilanjan Malakar and released in in 2023. The game is designed for 2-4 players aged 12 and above and has a runtime of 45-150 minutes. With a mix of action queue, area majority/influence, auction/bidding, deck building, hand management, and pool building mechanics, SCRAP offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience.

Game Components of SCRAP

Player Boards: Each player has a unique board representing their Bot collective.

Function Cards: These cards are used for programming actions and have dual purposes as unique options and fuel for other powers.

Data Tokens: Used to track progress toward the game’s objective.

Bot Tokens: Represent the player’s units on the board.

Ship Tokens: Players prepare and fly out their ships to planet Seratus.

Area Control Tokens: For managing area majority.

Energy Tokens: Needed for scavenging and other actions.

Upgrade Cards: Unique to each faction and provide special abilities.

How To Setup SCRAP

To set up SCRAP, players first choose their faction, each with a unique hand of functions and a wholly unique ability. Each player starts with a set of core function cards and places their Bot tokens and ship tokens on the board according to the initial setup instructions. The game board is configured based on the number of players, with specific areas for scavenging and area control. Players must also manage their energy tokens and prepare for the first turn by programming their initial functions into the action queue.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Action Queue Programming: Players plan their moves in advance by placing functions into a queue.

Hand Building: Acquiring new function cards to increase options.

Hand Management: Managing function cards to avoid frequent reboots.

Hidden Bidding Combat: Assigning orders to Bots without using dice or cards.

Area Majority: Controlling areas to gain data points.

Asymmetric Factions: Each faction has unique abilities and upgrades.

Objective

The objective is to be the first player to collect 50 Data tokens by scavenging, exploiting resources, and exterminating opponents’ Bots.

Player Experience

SCRAP offers a complex and engaging experience, especially for fans of strategic and tactical games. Players must plan their actions carefully, anticipating their opponents’ moves due to the transparent action queue system. The game’s asymmetric factions add a layer of depth, requiring players to adapt their strategies based on their chosen faction.

Pros

Deep Strategy: The game requires forward thinking and planning.

High Replayability: Unique factions and function cards ensure different experiences each game.

Engaging Mechanics: The combination of action programming, hand management, and area control keeps players engaged.

Thematic Combat: The combat system is unique and thematic, without relying on dice or cards.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The game’s rules and mechanics can be complex and take time to learn.

Lengthy Gameplay: Games can last between 45-150 minutes, which may not suit all players.

Rulebook Complexity: The prototype rulebook has been noted to be messy and require frequent referencing.

Personal Thoughts on SCRAP

SCRAP is ideal for experienced board game enthusiasts who enjoy complex strategies and tactical gameplay. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate asymmetric factions and the challenge of adapting to different playstyles. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and lengthy gameplay, it offers a rich and immersive experience for those willing to invest the time to master its mechanics.

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.