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Stranded (1981) Board Game

ByMichail

Stranded is an abstract strategy board game that was released in in 1981. It is designed by Philip O’Neill and features artwork by Spear’s Games. The game is designed for 2 players, with a runtime of about 20 minutes. It falls into the category of area majority/influence and area movement games.

Game Components of Stranded

  • Gameboard:** A 6 x 8 grid with raised platforms or pawn-sized holes on the third square from the left on the short sides.
  • Tiles:** 46 square tiles, made of plastic or wood in different editions.
  • Pawns:** 2 different colored pawns.

    How To Setup Stranded

    To set up the game, place the tiles in all the empty squares on the board. Each player’s pawn is then placed on one of the raised platforms or in the round holes, depending on the edition.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Player Turn:** Each player moves their pawn one square in any direction and then removes any tile from the board.
  • Objective:** The goal is to isolate the opponent’s pawn so that it has no legal move.
  • Victory Conditions:** The first player to achieve this isolation wins the game.

    Player Experience

    Playing *Stranded* is a quick and intense experience. The game requires strategic thinking as players must carefully plan their moves to both advance their pawn and limit their opponent’s options. The simplicity of the rules belies the depth of strategy involved.

    Pros

  • Quick to Learn:** The game takes only a minute to learn.
  • Strategic Depth:** Despite its simplicity, the game offers very tricky and engaging gameplay.
  • Short Playtime:** Games typically last around five minutes.
  • High Replayability:** Each game presents a unique challenge.

    Cons

  • Limited Player Count:** It is designed for only two players.
  • Simple Components:** Some players might find the components too basic.

    Personal Thoughts on Stranded

    *Stranded* is perfect for those who enjoy abstract strategy games and are looking for a quick, yet challenging, experience. It is ideal for players who appreciate games that are easy to learn but hard to master. This game is not for those seeking complex themes or multiple player interactions, but it is a great addition to any strategy game collection.

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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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