Video Vortex (2020) Board Game

Video Vortex is a board game released in 2020 by Mondo Games. Designed by Boneface, this game combines elements of adventure, card game, fantasy, fighting, and horror, offering players a unique and immersive gaming experience. With a runtime of 60 minutes and suitable for players aged 14 and up, Video Vortex has quickly gained popularity among board game enthusiasts.

Game Components of Video Vortex

Player boards: High-quality, detailed boards for each player.

Central market board: A central board where players acquire new cards.

Tokens: Various tokens, including energy, charge, and money.

VHS reel health trackers: Track players’ health.

Trophy tokens: Blue, red, and green trophies that players must collect to win.

Character stat cards: Each character has unique superpowers and complexity rankings.

Video cards: Cards with humorous titles used for attacking and defending.

How To Setup Video Vortex

Setup involves each player selecting a character and receiving their respective stat cards and starting video cards. Players also start with three trophies (blue, red, and green) and a VHS reel to track their health. The central market board is set up with available video cards that players can purchase during the game. Each player has their own player board to manage their resources and cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Deck-building: Players acquire new video cards to enhance their abilities.

Resource management: Players manage energy, charge, and money to play cards and activate superpowers.

Combat: Players can attack one another, with the possibility of switching targets if the initial target is killed.

Character abilities: Each character has unique superpowers and complexity levels.

Game Objective

The objective is to be the first player to collect all three different-colored trophies (blue, red, and green) by killing other players and claiming their trophies.

Player Experience

Playing **Video Vortex** is an engaging experience, especially with three or four players, as it creates a web of intrigue and strategic gameplay. Players must carefully choose whom to attack, as weakening a player without killing them can set them up for another player to finish off. The game features a high level of replayability due to the diverse characters and the need to adapt strategies. With multiple currencies and various card options, turns can be quite extensive but rewarding.

Pros

High-quality components: The game boasts excellent production quality.

Unique theme: The VHS nostalgia and post-apocalyptic setting make the game stand out.

Replayability: Multiple characters and strategic depth offer many playthroughs.

Engaging gameplay: The game is particularly enjoyable with three or four players.

Cons

Complexity: Some characters have high complexity rankings, which can be overwhelming for new players.

Learning curve: The game’s mechanics can take time to master.

Two-player experience: The game feels significantly different and less dynamic with only two players.

Personal Thoughts on Video Vortex

**Video Vortex** is ideal for fans of deck-building games and those who appreciate a strong thematic element. It is particularly suited for groups of three or four players who enjoy strategic gameplay and the social dynamics that come with it. While it may have a steep learning curve, the game’s unique setting and high-quality components make it a compelling addition to any board game collection. New players are advised to start with low-complexity characters to ease into the game’s intricate mechanics.

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.