VisualEyes (2003) Board Game

VisualEyes is a board game released in 2003 by Buffalo Games. Designed by Keith Dugald and Steve Pickering, and featuring art by Kristine Nuyens, this game falls under the categories of Dice, Negotiation, Party Game, Puzzle, Real-time, and Word Game. With a playtime of about 30 minutes and suitable for players aged 8 and up, VisualEyes is a fun and fast-paced game that challenges players to think outside the box.

Game Components of VisualEyes

19 large six-sided dice: 18 with pictures on each side (e.g., a shoe, a light switch, a top) and 1 with “Slow Play” and “Fast Play” markings.

Pads of paper for each player.

A box to shake the dice.

Optional: a sand timer for “Slow Play” mode.

How To Setup VisualEyes

To set up VisualEyes, players place the 19 dice in the box, ensure each player has a pad of paper, and determine the starting player, typically the youngest. The dice are shaken in the box, and then revealed to all players to begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Rolling: Players shake the box containing the dice and reveal them.

Play Mode: The game mode is determined by the last die, which can indicate “Slow Play” or “Fast Play”.

Slow Play: Players have a set time (using a sand timer) to write down as many words or phrases as possible using pairs of picture dice. Only unique words/phrases score points.

Fast Play: Players quickly shout out words or phrases using pairs of picture dice. The first player to call out a valid phrase removes the dice from the box. Points are scored for each pair of dice used.

Objective: The first player to reach 20 points wins the game.

Player Experience

VisualEyes starts off as a challenging game but quickly becomes enjoyable as players get into the rhythm. It is described as a “thinking man’s party game” due to its unique blend of word puzzles and social interaction. However, the game can lead to arguments over what phrases are valid, and it may not appeal to those seeking a game with high replayability.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: Combines elements of party, word, and dice games, offering a fresh experience.

Easy to Learn: Simple rules that can be grasped quickly by new players.

Engaging: Encourages creative thinking and can be a lot of fun, especially with a clever crowd.

Cons

Replay Value: Limited replayability as the same pictures are rolled frequently, leading to repetitive phrases.

Arguments: Can lead to disputes over valid phrases, especially in competitive groups.

Component Durability: The paint on the dice can chip off over time, which is annoying and messy.

Personal Thoughts on VisualEyes

VisualEyes is ideal for those looking for a unique and intellectually stimulating party game. It is best played with a group of clever and creative individuals. While it may not be a game you pull out every week due to its limited replay value, it can be a huge hit when played in small doses with the right crowd. If you can find it at a good price, it’s worth adding to your collection for occasional fun and mental challenge.

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