Side Effects (2017) Board Game

Side Effects is a card game released in 2017 by Pillbox Games. Designed by Jen Igartua, Jade Shames, and Kat Thek, the game is targeted towards mature/adult audiences and can accommodate 2–8 players. With a playtime of 10–30 minutes, Side Effects is known for its fast-paced and chaotic gameplay.

Game Components of Side Effects

89 beautiful cards

Instruction booklet

8 Disorder cards (suicidal thoughts, anxiety, gambling addiction, anorexia, madness, tremors, depression, and impotence)

Drug cards with side effects

Therapy cards

Episode cards

Bonus cards (optional).

How To Setup Side Effects

To set up the game, separate the Disorders from the deck and shuffle them, dealing out 4 Disorder cards per player face up (3 if playing with 6+ people). These cards form the player’s Psyche. Next, shuffle the remaining Disorders into the deck and deal out 4 cards per player face down to form their Hand. The rest of the deck becomes the draw pile, and discarded cards are placed face up next to it.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Disorder Treatment: Players treat their Disorders with Drug cards.

Side Effects: Drug cards can introduce new Disorders from other players.

Therapy: Therapy cards can eliminate Disorders but make players susceptible to getting them again.

Episodes: Episode cards trigger punishments listed on untreated Disorders.

Player Interaction: Players can give Disorders to each other based on the side effects of the Drug cards.

Game Objective

The objective is to be the first player to treat all the Disorders in their Psyche. Players must balance treating their Disorders while avoiding new ones inflicted by other players.

Player Experience

Side Effects offers a unique blend of dark humor and strategic gameplay. Players must navigate the challenges of mental health treatments, where drugs can both cure and inflict new disorders. The game’s artwork is a standout, with beautifully designed cards inspired by historical pharmaceutical packaging and Art Nouveau styles. The gameplay is casual yet engaging, making it suitable for a wide range of players, from those looking for a light-hearted experience to those who enjoy strategic social interaction.

Pros

Engaging Mechanics: Combination of treatment, side effects, and player interaction keeps the game dynamic.

Beautiful Artwork: The game’s design is visually appealing and thematic.

Social Interaction: Encourages player engagement and strategic thinking.

Casual Play: Easy to learn and play, making it accessible to a broad audience.

Cons

Sensitive Theme: The game’s focus on mental illness and drug side effects might be off-putting for some players.

Balance Issues: Managing side effects and new disorders can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Luck Factor: The draw of cards can significantly influence the game’s outcome.

Personal Thoughts on Side Effects

Side Effects is ideal for players who enjoy “take that” card games and are comfortable with its thematic content. It’s a great choice for game nights or casual gatherings, offering a fun and quirky way to address a serious topic. However, it may not be suitable for all audiences, especially those who prefer games with lighter themes or those who are sensitive to the portrayal of mental health issues. Overall, it’s a well-designed game that balances humor and strategy effectively, making it a unique addition to any board game collection.

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.