Sports Illustrated Baseball (1972) Board Game

Sports Illustrated Baseball Board Game was released in 1972 and designed by David S. Neft. It was published by various companies including The Avalon Hill Game Co, Sports Illustrated, and Time Life. The game is designed for 1-2 players and is best played with 2 players. With a runtime of around 45 minutes, the game is suitable for players aged 12 and above.

Game Components of Sports Illustrated Baseball

Team charts: Colorful, trifold sheets with player statistics, including batting, pitching, and fielding data.

Dice: Special dice with a 10-digit black die and white or yellow dice for the ones digit, designed to produce specific result distributions.

Rules folder: Includes strategy charts, league rules, and a rule book.

Field diagram: A blue plastic field to track baserunners, innings, outs, and game score.

Player charts: Detailed charts for batters, pitchers, and defensive ratings, using uniform numbers for column designations.

How To Setup Sports Illustrated Baseball

To set up the game, players need to organize the team charts, ensure they have the necessary dice, and lay out the field diagram. The rules folder provides clear instructions on how to begin a game, including setting up the starting lineups and understanding the various charts and their uses. The game is relatively straightforward, with the rules designed to be self-explanatory.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Rolling: Players roll the dice to determine the outcome of a pitch, which can result in an automatic out, a walk, or a reference to other charts for further resolution.

Pitcher Chart: The initial roll refers to the pitcher’s chart, which can lead to various outcomes such as outs, walks, or batter swings.

Batter Chart: If the batter swings, a second dice roll is made against the batter’s hitting chart to determine the outcome.

Manager’s Decision Chart: Additional rolls may be needed for base advancement and other plays involving runners.

Game Objective: The objective is to score more runs than the opposing team by navigating the batting, pitching, and fielding mechanics.

Player Experience

The Sports Illustrated Baseball game offers a immersive experience for baseball fans, with a focus on realism and strategy. Players can enjoy the game’s smooth gameplay, which incorporates various aspects of baseball such as bunting, stealing, and base running. The game also includes unique features like pitcher splits and individualized player ratings, making it engaging and challenging.

Pros

Realistic Gameplay: The game accurately reflects the strategies and outcomes of real baseball games.

Color-Coded Charts: Easy-to-read and visually appealing charts enhance the gameplay experience.

Fast-Paced: Games can be completed quickly, allowing players to simulate multiple games in a short period.

Historical Significance: The game includes analyses and write-ups of the season for each team, adding a historical context.

Cons

Dice Dependency: Losing one of the special dice can significantly hinder gameplay.

Limited Player Charts: Some versions have limited charts, such as only five starting pitchers and three relievers.

Missing Components: Over time, components like the field diagram and game box can be lost.

Personal Thoughts on Sports Illustrated Baseball

This game is ideal for avid baseball fans and those who enjoy tabletop simulations. It offers a nostalgic experience for those who played it in the past and a new challenge for those discovering it now. The game’s balance of realism and simplicity makes it appealing to both casual and dedicated players. However, it may not be as complex or detailed as modern baseball simulation games, so it is best suited for those looking for a nostalgic and straightforward baseball experience.

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