Stranger Things: Upside Down (2023) Board Game

Stranger Things: Upside Down is a board game based on the popular Netflix series Stranger Things. Designed by Rob Daviau and published by CMON Global Limited, this cooperative game allows players to work together to take on the role of characters from the show and navigate the treacherous Upside Down.

Game Components of Stranger Things: Upside Down

Board: Split between the town and the Upside Down.

Character Dashboards: List characters’ starting locations and special powers, and feature a “fear track.”

Action Cards: Used for movement, combat, and other actions.

Challenge Tokens: Represent monsters and challenges.

Item Deck: Provides items to aid players.

Scene Cards: Introduce turn-to-turn negative effects.

Plastic Miniatures: Detailed miniatures of characters and enemies.

How To Setup Stranger Things: Upside Down

To set up the game, players start by placing the board, which is divided between the town and the Upside Down. Each player selects a character and receives a character dashboard, a hand of 5 action cards, and places their miniature on the board according to the dashboard. The challenge tokens are seeded around the board, representing the various monsters and challenges. The item deck and scene cards are also prepared and placed within reach.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Cooperative Play: Players work together.

Token Stacking: Players clear stacks of challenge tokens.

Card Play: Action cards used for movement, combat, and other actions.

Fear Mechanic: Players gain fear from certain actions.

Scene Cards: Introduce negative effects each turn.

Game Objective

Players must work together to clear stacks of tokens before time runs out.

The main objective is to save Will Byers from the Upside Down.

Players must manage their fear levels and the depletion of the action card deck to avoid losing.

Player Experience

In **Stranger Things: Upside Down**, players embody the roles of the kids from Hawkins, navigating a board split between their town and the ominous Upside Down. Each turn involves movement, resolving actions, and dealing with the escalating challenges introduced by scene cards. The game captures the essence of the first two seasons of the show, with detailed miniatures and a visually striking board that immerses players in the *Stranger Things* atmosphere.

Pros

Immersive Theme: Captures the feel of the first two seasons of *Stranger Things*.

Cooperative Fun: Encourages teamwork and strategy.

Detailed Components: High-quality miniatures and board design.

Original Mechanics: Unique token stacking and fear mechanics.

Cons

Repetitive Gameplay: Fighting token stacks can feel stale over time.

Limited Staying Power: May not offer long-term replayability for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Stranger Things: Upside Down

**Stranger Things: Upside Down** is a game tailored for fans of the Netflix series, offering a compelling cooperative experience that feels true to the show. While it may not provide endless replay value due to the repetitive nature of some mechanics, it is a solid choice for those who enjoy cooperative games and are looking for a themed adventure. If you’re a fan of *Stranger Things*, this game is certainly worth a try to relive the series in a new and engaging way.

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