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The Mole in the Hole (1995) Board Game

ByMichail

The Mole in the Hole is a children’s board game released in 1995 by Ravensburger. Designed by Virginia Charves and Bertram Kaes, this game has been a favorite among families for its simple yet engaging gameplay.

Game Components of The Mole in the Hole

  • Gameboard:** Composed of five layers, forming a 3D modular board.
  • Playing Pieces:** Mole figures, each player having a set.
  • Numbered Cards:** Used for determining movements, with numbers 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, and 4.
  • Golden Shovel:** The ultimate goal located in the final layer.

    How To Setup The Mole in the Hole

    To set up the game, assemble the 3D board by stacking the layers on top of each other. Each player chooses a set of mole figures and places them at the starting layer. The numbered cards are shuffled and placed face down on the table. The game is ready for play with 2-4 players, with each player having a specific number of moles based on the number of players.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective:** Be the first player to get one of your moles to the Golden Shovel in the final layer.
  • Movement:** Determined by numbered cards, which are drawn each turn.
  • Elimination:** Players are eliminated if they cannot get any of their moles into the available holes in a layer.
  • Tactics:** Block other moles’ paths to holes if you cannot move into one.
  • Modular Board:** The board consists of multiple layers, adding a 3D element to the game.

    Player Experience

    The game offers a simple yet tactical experience. As the game progresses, it becomes increasingly challenging, making it enjoyable for both children and adults. The lack of dice and the use of numbered cards add a layer of strategy, as players need to remember which numbers have been used to plan their moves. The game is most enjoyable with 3 or 4 players, as this optimizes the number of moles and holes.

    Pros

  • Tactical Depth:** Despite simple rules, the game offers deep tactical gameplay.
  • Family-Friendly:** Suitable for children but challenging enough for adults.
  • Unique Board:** The 3D modular board adds a unique twist to the game.
  • Award-Winning:** Won Children’s Game of the Year in Finland and Sweden in 1995.

    Cons

  • Length:** Games can be long, especially if players are eliminated early.
  • Availability:** The game is rare and hard to find nowadays.
  • Boredom Risk:** Early elimination can lead to boredom for some players.

    Personal Thoughts on The Mole in the Hole

    The Mole in the Hole is a hidden gem that combines simplicity with strategic depth, making it a great option for families and groups of friends. It’s often referred to as “adults’ chess” due to its tactical nature, despite being a children’s game at heart. This game is ideal for those who enjoy strategic planning and competitive gameplay in a unique and entertaining package.

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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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