Waypoints (2023) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Waypoints is a board game designed by Rory Muldoon and published in in 2023. It falls under the categories of Exploration, Print & Play, and Travel, with gameplay centered around dice rolling, movement points, paper-and-pencil, point-to-point movement, resource management, and simultaneous action selection. The game is suitable for players aged 8 and above, with a runtime of 20-40 minutes.

Game Components of Waypoints

One game sheet per player

A standard six-sided die

A pen for writing

Multiple maps, each with unique challenges and opportunities

Optional cover art and achievements for each map

Access to community rules translations.

How To Setup Waypoints

To setup Waypoints, each player starts by receiving a game sheet, which includes a topographic map with a grid overlaid on it. The game begins with a random selection of a bonus goal, which varies on visiting specific types of features on the map. Players then roll a common die to determine the starting campsite. Each player marks their starting position on the map and prepares for the first hike.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Roll-and-Write Mechanics: Players roll a six-sided die to determine movement points for the turn.

Movement: Movement is based on the rolled die value, with options to increase movement using water or special items like coats, kayaks, or gliders.

Weather System: A weather track influences movement points each turn.

Waypoints and Features: Players navigate through various map features such as rivers, lakes, woods, and peaks, visiting waypoints and picking up gear.

Resting: Players can choose to rest, gaining water instead of moving.

Game Objective: Complete four hikes, each ending when players reach the end of the movement tracker. Score points based on journal bonuses, which reward visiting waypoints and grid squares.

Player Experience

Waypoints offers a highly interactive and strategic experience. Players enjoy the freedom of plotting their hike routes, managing resources like water, and utilizing special gear to enhance their movement. The game’s design and mechanics seamlessly integrate with the hiking theme, making it feel like a real outdoor adventure. With multiple maps and variable setup, each game can have a different feel, keeping the experience fresh.

Pros

Freedom of Movement: Players can draw their hike route freely, adding a creative element.

Resource Management: Managing water and gear adds a layer of strategy.

Variable Setup: Different bonus goals and starting campsites ensure varied gameplay.

Portable: Ideal for solo or group play, and easy to take on the go.

Cons

Complexity: The game mechanics can be somewhat complicated, especially for younger players.

No Clear Optimal Play: The optimal strategy is not immediately obvious, which can be challenging for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Waypoints

Waypoints is perfect for those who enjoy roll-and-write games and appreciate the outdoors. It’s a great option for solo players, as it works brilliantly in a solo context, and its portability makes it an excellent choice for travel. The game’s ability to accommodate up to 100 players also makes it a fun option for large groups or streaming on platforms like Twitch. However, it may not be the best fit for very young players due to its complexity.

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