Strain (2011) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Strain is a board game released in 2011, designed by Avrom Tobias and featuring artwork by HungryRobot. It falls under the categories of educational, fighting, and medical games, and incorporates mechanisms such as hand management and tile placement. The game is designed for 3-7 players, with a best player count of 4, and has an average playtime of 60 minutes. Players aged 10 and above can enjoy this game, which offers a unique gameplay experience with its combination of strategic decision-making and thematic elements.

Game Components of Strain

Game board

Player boards

Infection tiles

Cure tokens

Player markers

Research cards

Player aid cards

How To Setup Strain

Place the game board in the center of the play area.

Give each player a player board and marker.

Shuffle the infection tiles and place them face down on designated spaces.

Place the cure tokens nearby.

Deal out the research cards to each player.

Choose a starting player and begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Strain, players take on the roles of scientists trying to find a cure for a deadly virus. Through strategic card play and tile placement, players must race against each other to be the first to find a cure and save humanity. The game involves managing resources, collecting research, and outmaneuvering opponents to achieve victory. The ultimate goal is to be the first player to cure the virus and win the game.

Player Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:

Engaging theme that ties into gameplay mechanics

Strategic depth with multiple paths to victory

Interactive gameplay that encourages player interaction

Replayability due to variable player powers and research card combinations

Cons:

Can be overwhelming for new players due to complexity

Player elimination may occur in larger player counts

Luck factor in tile draws may impact game outcomes

Personal Thoughts on Strain

In my experience with Strain, I found it to be a challenging and rewarding game that requires careful planning and adaptability. The educational and medical themes add an interesting layer to the gameplay, making it both fun and informative. The build quality of the components is solid, with vibrant artwork and durable materials. However, the game’s complexity may be a deterrent for casual gamers or those looking for a more light-hearted experience.

In terms of pricing and availability, Strain can be found both new and used at varying prices. While it may not be suitable for everyone, fans of strategic board games with a unique twist will likely find it worth their time. Alternatives to Strain include Pandemic and Catan, which offer similar gameplay experiences in the realm of cooperative or competitive board games. Overall, I would recommend Strain to players who enjoy a challenge and are interested in exploring the intersection of science and gaming.

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