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Ultimate Combat! (1995) Board Game

ByMichail

Ultimate Combat! is a two-player collectible card game that was released in 1995 by Ultimate Games. The game is centered around combat sports and martial arts, and it has garnered a dedicated following over the years. With a playing time of around 30 minutes, Ultimate Combat! is suitable for players aged 10 and above.

Game Components of Ultimate Combat!

Although the board game version is less documented, the components can be inferred from its evolution into the CCG:

  • Playable Characters:** Each with different levels of physical strength, speed, stamina, and various techniques.
  • Technique Cards:** Representing different types of kicks, throws, and strikes.
  • Foundation Cards:** Representing physical conditioning and training.
  • Weapons:** Rare cards depicting weapons that confer bonuses on offense and defense.

    How To Setup Ultimate Combat!

    The setup for the original board game is not extensively detailed, but it can be inferred that players would choose their characters and begin with a set of basic attributes and techniques. In the CCG version, players start by shuffling the deck, drawing a hand of ten cards, and setting up their foundation cards.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Recovery Phase:** Cards drained of power are recovered.
  • Draw Phase:** Cards are drawn to maintain a hand size of ten.
  • Build Phase:** Players deploy foundation cards to increase their action capacity.
  • Activity Phase:** Players use technique cards to launch or block attacks.
  • Discard Phase:** Discard excess cards.
  • Game Objective:** Knock the opponent unconscious by using martial arts moves and techniques effectively.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Ultimate Combat** involves strategic planning and resource management. Players must balance between building their foundation, choosing the right techniques, and timing their attacks and defenses. The game requires a mix of arithmetic, basic reading, and card playing skills.

    Pros

  • Strategic Depth:** The game offers a deep strategic layer with various techniques and foundations to manage.
  • Realistic Martial Arts Theme:** It simulates martial arts combat, appealing to fans of judo, karate, and other martial arts.
  • Endorsements:** Endorsed by the United States Judo Association team, the USA Taekwondo team, and the USA Wrestling team.

    Cons

  • Complexity:** The game’s rules and mechanics can be complex, especially for new players.
  • Market Competition:** Released in 1995 alongside 58 other new CCGs, making it difficult to achieve a sustainable fan base.
  • Availability:** The game is out-of-print, making it hard to find and play.

    Personal Thoughts on Ultimate Combat!

    **Ultimate Combat** is ideal for fans of martial arts and those who enjoy strategic card games. It requires a good balance of planning and execution, making it engaging for players who like to think ahead. However, its complexity and rarity might limit its appeal to casual players. Despite its short-lived commercial run, it remains a unique and intriguing collectible card game with a strong martial arts theme.

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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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