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Star Plus (2017) Board Game

ByMichail

Star Plus is a card game designed by Park Tae Woo and published by Korea Boardgames in in 2017. It is a fast-paced game that can be played by 2 to 6 players, with a recommended age of 7 and above. The game has received mixed reviews from players, with some praising its simplicity and strategy, while others find it lacking in depth.

Game Components of Star Plus

  • 74 Cards, including:
    – 11 Cards each of Aquarius, Pisces, Aries
    – 7 Cards each of Taurus, Gemini, Cancer
    – 3 Cards each of Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn
    – 2 Zeus Cards

  • Special Cards (red in color) numbered 7, 8, and 9 with unique abilities

    How To Setup Star Plus

    Setup is straightforward: shuffle the deck and deal 9 cards to each player (8 cards if playing with 5-6 players). Place the remaining deck in the center of the table.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Objective:** Be the first to discard all cards from your hand and accumulate the most points.
  • Gameplay:**
    – The first player must play cards that sum to 1, the next player to 2, and so on up to 12, then back to 1.
    – Players can skip their turn by drawing two cards (one card in a 5-6 player game).

  • Black Hole:** Triggered when a player discards three or more cards; subsequent players must play at least three cards or draw four (two in a 5-6 player game).
  • Special Cards:**
  • 7:** Take two cards from the score pile of the player to your right.
  • 8:** Take two cards from the score pile of the player to your left.
  • 9:** Reverse the order of play.
  • Zeus:** Skip your turn without penalty.
  • Scoring:** +5 points for emptying your hand, +1 point for each card in your score pile, -1 point for each card left in your hand.

    Player Experience

    Star Plus offers a fast-paced and mathematically engaging experience, particularly suited for those who enjoy quick, strategic card games. However, the game’s simplicity and reliance on luck can make it feel less engaging for some players. The game is highly portable and features visually appealing, zodiac-themed artwork.

    Pros

  • Fast Gameplay:** Games typically last about 20 minutes.
  • Portable:** Easy to carry due to its compact size.
  • Simple Rules:** Rules can be explained in about two minutes.
  • Mathematical Challenge:** Involves clever use of mathematics to discard cards.
  • Fun at Two Players:** The game is particularly enjoyable with two players due to the back-and-forth nature.

    Cons

  • Luck-Driven:** Success often depends on the cards drawn rather than strategy.
  • Limited Strategic Depth:** The game lacks complex strategies and challenges.
  • Special Cards Limited Impact:** The special cards, although unique, do not significantly alter the game’s course.
  • No Exciting Theme:** The zodiac theme does not add much to the gameplay.

    Personal Thoughts on Star Plus

    Star Plus is best suited for those looking for a quick, mathematically inclined card game, especially for young children learning addition or for casual gamers seeking a light, portable option. However, it may not appeal to players seeking deeper strategic gameplay or more complex challenges. Despite its simplicity and portability, the game’s lack of exciting mechanics and reliance on luck might make it less compelling for some players.

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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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