Submarine (2004) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Submarine is a board game released in 2004 that allows players to take on the role of a submarine captain navigating the depths of the ocean. Designed by Michael Menzel and featuring artwork by Rio Grande Games and Winning Moves Germany, Submarine falls under the nautical category and incorporates grid movement, race, and set collection mechanisms.

Game Components of Submarine

Game board featuring hidden objects

Submarine (bathyscaphe) pieces

Treasure cards

Recovery ship

Joker tiles

Player boards or “bingo cards” for tracking treasures

How To Setup Submarine

To set up the game, players start by preparing the game board, which has about 60 hidden objects. Each player receives a “bingo card” where they will mark off the treasures they collect. The submarines and recovery ship are placed according to the initial setup rules. The treasure cards and joker tiles are shuffled and prepared for play.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics:

Submarine Movement: Players move their submarines to collect treasures.

Treasure Collection: Players collect treasures and mark them off on their bingo cards.

Recovery Ship: The recovery ship plays a crucial role in the game flow, affecting player turns.

Joker Tiles: These tiles can be used strategically to aid in treasure collection.

Game Objective:

The goal is to collect and mark off the greatest number of unique treasures on your bingo card without giving too many cards to your opponents.

Players must pace and time their moves carefully, reacting to their opponents’ actions.

Player Experience

Playing **Submarine** is a dynamic and strategic experience. The game requires a blend of planning, timing, and adaptability as players navigate the underwater terrain to collect treasures. The beautiful artwork by Michael Menzel adds a visually appealing layer to the game, making it engaging and immersive.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game offers a fun and challenging level of strategy.

Visual Appeal: The artwork is beautiful and enhances the gaming experience.

Player Interaction: Players must react to each other’s moves, adding a social element.

Light Rule Set: Despite some initial confusion, the rules are relatively light and easy to learn.

Cons

Confusing Rulebook: Some rules may be confusing at first, requiring additional research.

Abstract Nature: The game is a bit abstract, which may not appeal to all players.

Personal Thoughts on Submarine

**Submarine** is ideal for players who enjoy abstract strategy games with a competitive edge. It is suited for those who appreciate games that require careful planning and timely reactions. While it may not be the best fit for new board game enthusiasts due to its abstract nature, experienced players looking for a hidden gem will find **Submarine** to be a fascinating and engaging addition to their game collection.

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