The Broadway Game (1981) Board Game

The Broadway Game is a classic board game released in 1981 that immerses players in the world of Broadway theater. Designed by Ernie Parmentier and featuring artwork by MJ&E Productions and Tactical Studies Rules (TSR), the game combines elements of economic strategy and stock holding with a Movies / TV / Radio theme.

Game Components of The Broadway Game

Board depicting the theatre district of NYC

Dice

Signs naming musicals

Paper money

Tickets

Six sets of share pegs (35 each)

6 Pawns.

How To Setup The Broadway Game

To set up the game, players need to place the board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects a pawn and places it on the starting position. Distribute the paper money, tickets, and share pegs accordingly. The signs naming musicals are placed on designated spaces on the board. Players roll the dice to determine who goes first.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Trivia, Theater and Musical

Game Mechanics: Rolling dice, trivia questions, economic management (using paper money and share pegs)

Game Objective: To become a successful Broadway star by answering trivia questions correctly, managing finances, and strategically moving around the board.

Player Experience

The Broadway Game offers a unique blend of trivia and strategy, making it engaging for theater enthusiasts. Players must balance their knowledge of Broadway musicals with financial management, as they invest in and manage shares of different musicals. The game’s setting in the theatre district of NYC adds to its thematic charm, immersing players in the world of Broadway.

Pros

Thematic Immersion: The game’s setting and components effectively immerse players in the Broadway experience.

Educational: Players can learn a lot about various Broadway musicals and their history.

Interactive: Combines trivia with strategic gameplay, making it engaging for multiple types of players.

Nostalgic Value: For those who played it in the 80s, it can be a nostalgic treat.

Cons

Limited Appeal: The game may not appeal to those without an interest in theater or musicals.

Outdated: Some questions or references may be outdated, reducing the game’s relevance for newer generations.

Complex Setup: The game includes several components, which can make setup time-consuming.

Personal Thoughts on The Broadway Game

The Broadway Game is ideal for theater enthusiasts and those who enjoy trivia and strategic gameplay. It’s a great way to spend a evening with friends who share similar interests in musicals and theater. However, it may not be the best fit for those looking for a more general or modern board game experience.

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