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Survivor (2000) Board Game

ByMichail

The Survivor board game was released in 2000, based on the popular reality TV show of the same name. In the game, players compete in challenges, form alliances, and vote each other out until only one player remains standing. Designed by Mattel, Inc., the game captures the strategic gameplay and social dynamics of the TV show.

Game Components of Survivor

  • Illustrated game board
  • Plastic replica of the island of Pulau Tiga as its centerpiece and cardholder
  • 168 game cards in three different categories of questions and riddles
  • Pictionary-type cards
  • Special die
  • 10 playing pieces and stands
  • 9 erasable voting cards
  • Erasable pen
  • Immunity idol
  • Instruction sheet.

    How To Setup Survivor

    To set up the game, place the island tray in the center of the table and arrange the gameboard around it, ensuring the stairs line up with the “go to tribal council” space. Cover each wide slot in the tray with a category card, and place the corresponding deck of cards underneath. Insert the immunity idol into the slot at the top of the steps and the voting cards into the slot at the top of the tray. Players divide into two teams, Pagong and Tagi, each choosing a colored player mover. Each team receives a scoring/reference card and three survival item cards. The remaining survival item cards are placed in the slots around the tray.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Outwit:** Teams compete in riddle-solving challenges. If the opposing team solves the riddle, they earn survival items; otherwise, the current team earns them.
  • Outplay:** Challenges include guessing a player’s preferences (Know Thy Neighbor) and quick-draw word-guessing (S.O.S.).
  • Outlast:** Players follow directions on cards, sometimes requiring the use of survival items.
  • Team Phase:** Teams collect survival items and aim to reach the merge space first, allowing them to steal items from the opposing team.
  • Individual Phase:** Players roll a die, move around the board, complete challenges, and use survival items to increase their chances of winning immunity. The goal is to be the last player standing by avoiding being voted off the island.

    Player Experience

    The game is designed for 4-8 players and is generally found to be fun for group play, despite some flaws. Players appreciate the quality of the components and the speed of gameplay, which can ignite lots of conversation. However, some users have reported missing pieces and frustration with the game’s mechanics, particularly the underutilization of survival items. The game can also lead to tense moments among friends due to the voting mechanism.

    Pros

  • Group Fun:** Great for group play, encouraging strategy and teamwork.
  • Variety of Challenges:** Includes riddles, Pictionary-type tasks, and preference-guessing challenges.
  • Engaging Theme:** Based on the popular Survivor TV series, which adds to its appeal for fans.
  • Easy to Learn:** Rules are generally easy to read and understand.

    Cons

  • Poor Reviews:** Ranked low on BoardGameGeek.com, indicating overall dissatisfaction.
  • Mechanical Issues:** Survival items are not used often, reducing their impact on gameplay.
  • Missing Pieces:** Some users have reported receiving the game with missing components.
  • Family Tension:** Can lead to anger and tension among players, particularly friends and family.

    Personal Thoughts on Survivor

    This game is ideal for fans of the Survivor TV series and those who enjoy strategy and party games. However, due to its mechanical issues and the potential for tension among players, it may not be the best choice for every gaming group. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a game that can spark conversation and teamwork, but be prepared for some frustrations with the gameplay mechanics.

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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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