The Really Nasty Horse Racing Game (1989) Board Game

The Really Nasty Horse Racing Game was first released in 1989 by Rascals Products Limited and has since been published by various companies such as University Games, Upstarts, and Winning Moves UK Ltd. The game gained popularity for its unique blend of animal racing and betting mechanics, making it a hit among players looking for a fun and competitive experience.

Game Components of The Really Nasty Horse Racing Game

Oversized game board

Bookmaker’s board

Betting slips

Deck of specials cards (including “really nasty” cards for dirty tricks)

Stack of money

Dice

Six large plastic horses and jockeys

Riderless horse token

Race cards

Length cards

Marker pencil

How To Setup The Really Nasty Horse Racing Game

To set up the game, each player is assigned a horse and places it on the starting line of the oversized game board. The bookmaker’s board is set up for betting, and each player receives betting slips and a share of the money. The deck of specials cards, which includes “really nasty” cards, is shuffled and distributed. The dice are ready for use, and the race cards and length cards are prepared according to the rules.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Rolling Dice: Players roll a single die to move their horse around the track.

Betting: Players can bet on other players’ horses.

Specials Cards: Players can use cards to commit dirty tricks, such as making a horse fall or forcing the winner to take a drug test.

Money Management: Players manage their money through bets and winnings.

Game Objective

The objective is to win the race while employing strategic and sometimes devious tactics to outmaneuver opponents.

Player Experience

The Really Nasty Horse Racing Game offers a unique blend of family-friendly fun and cunning strategy. It appeals to players who enjoy a mix of luck and tactical play, and it encourages social interaction through betting and the use of specials cards. The game is praised for its ability to engage players of various ages and skill levels.

Pros

Engaging Gameplay: Combines luck and strategy, making it appealing to a wide audience.

Social Interaction: Encourages betting and player interaction.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for families and younger players.

Replayability: The use of specials cards adds variety to each game.

Cons

Luck Factor: The game heavily relies on dice rolls, which may frustration some players.

Limited Complexity: May not appeal to players seeking highly complex or strategic games.

Components: Some components, like the money and betting slips, may wear out over time.

Personal Thoughts on The Really Nasty Horse Racing Game

This game is ideal for families and casual gamers who enjoy a light-hearted, entertaining experience with a hint of mischief. It’s perfect for game nights where the focus is on fun and social interaction rather than intense competition. However, it may not be the best fit for players looking for deeply strategic or complex gameplay. Overall, it’s a great addition to any game collection, especially for those who appreciate a bit of humor and cunning in their games.

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