| | | | | |

This Game is Bonkers! (1978) Board Game

This Game is Bonkers! is a classic board game that was first released in in 1978. Designed by Paul J. Gruen, the game is meant for 2 to 4 players and is suitable for children aged 8 and above. The game features dice rolling, hand management, roll/spin and move, and tile placement mechanics to keep players engaged and entertained.

Game Components of This Game is Bonkers!

  • Gameboard with a 55-space looping track
  • Four plastic tokens (pawns)
  • A stack of cardboard track cards, including “Ahead” and “Back” cards, special cards like “Roll Again,” “Go to Nearest Score,” “Go to Start,” and “Exchange Cards”
  • Two dice
  • A score card with plastic peg markers
  • Four large “Go to Lose” cards
  • Instructions.

    How To Setup This Game is Bonkers!

    To set up the game, each player is handed a token, a large “Go to Lose” card, and four track cards. Players place their tokens on the scoring space marked “Start.” The Scorekeeper shuffles the track cards, deals four to each player, and places the remaining cards facedown on the table. Each player’s token is positioned on the starting point of the Scoring Pegboard. Players then turn their four track cards face-up in front of them. The player who rolls the highest number on the dice goes first, with play proceeding to the left.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective:** Be the first player to score 12 points.
  • Gameplay:**
    – Roll the dice to determine the number of spaces to move.
    – Move the token the corresponding number of spaces.
    – Follow instructions on track cards if landing on a space with a card.
    – Score 1 point for landing on a “Score” space, lose 1 point for landing on the “Lose” space.
    – Use special cards to alter gameplay, such as “Exchange Cards” or “Go to Nearest Score.”
    – Use the “Go to Lose” card to send an opponent to the “Lose” space.
    – Draw a new track card at the end of each turn to replace any played.

    Player Experience

    This Game is Bonkers offers a highly unpredictable and dynamic gaming experience. The continuous placement and utilization of track cards ensure that no two games are the same, living up to its slogan “It’s Never the Same Game Twice!” Players must strategically manage their track cards and navigate the changing board to reach the scoring stations. The game’s mix of luck and strategy keeps players engaged and excited.

    Pros

  • High Replayability:** The game’s dynamic track and random card draws make each game unique.
  • Strategic Depth:** Players need to think ahead and manage their cards wisely.
  • Interactive:** Players can significantly impact each other’s progress with special cards.
  • Family-Friendly:** Suitable for ages 8 and up, making it a fun family game.

    Cons

  • Luck-Dependent:** The game heavily relies on dice rolls and card draws, which can be frustrating for some players.
  • Complex Setup:** While not overly complicated, the setup involves several steps and components.
  • Limited Player Control:** Some players may find the randomness overwhelming, reducing their sense of control over the game.

    Personal Thoughts on This Game is Bonkers!

    This Game is Bonkers is ideal for families and casual gamers who enjoy a mix of luck and strategy. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate high replayability and dynamic gameplay. However, players seeking games with more control and less randomness might find this less appealing. Overall, it’s a fun, unpredictable game that can add a refreshing twist to your board game collection.

    We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more

  • Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *