Widget Ridge (2019) Board Game

Widget Ridge is a card game released in 2019, designed by Matt Burton and illustrated by Furious Tree Games. It falls under the categories of Fantasy and Science Fiction, with a unique mechanism of Deck, Bag, and Pool Building. The game is designed for 1-2 players, with a playtime of 15-45 minutes and is suitable for ages 12 and above.

Game Components of Widget Ridge

Base Set: Supports 1-2 players; for 3-4 players, two copies are required.

Deck: Comprises various invention cards.

Marketplace Desk: Where new inventions and locations are added through expansions.

Character Packs: Include new playable characters, inventions, and character abilities.

Story Packs: Introduce characters with unique stories.

Expansions: Add new inventions and locations to the game.

How To Setup Widget Ridge

To set up Widget Ridge, start by shuffling the deck and dealing a starting hand to each player. Each player should have a set of basic invention cards. The Marketplace Desk is then populated with a selection of invention cards from the deck. Players can also choose to include expansions, character packs, or story packs to enhance the gameplay experience.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Deck-Building: Players collect and build their deck with invention cards.

Invention Creation: Cards connect to form larger, more complex inventions.

Objective: The goal is to create the most effective and often the most bizarre inventions to outdo other players.

Gameplay Style: Fast-paced and strategic, with an emphasis on creativity and adaptability.

Player Experience

Playing Widget Ridge is an immersive experience that blends strategy and creativity. Players must think critically about how different inventions can be combined to achieve the best outcomes, while also enjoying the whimsical and often humorous results of their creations. The game’s steampunk theme adds a rich layer of lore and atmosphere, making each game session unique and engaging.

Pros

Creative Gameplay: Encourages creative thinking and invention building.

Expansive Content: Multiple expansions, character packs, and story packs available to extend gameplay.

Fast-Paced: Quick gameplay sessions keep the game exciting and dynamic.

Steampunk Theme: Rich and engaging theme that enhances the gaming experience.

Cons

Complexity: May be overwhelming for new players due to the variety of inventions and combinations.

Cost: Requires multiple copies for larger player groups, which can be expensive.

Learning Curve: Some players may find the initial setup and rules explanation time-consuming.

Personal Thoughts on Widget Ridge

Widget Ridge is ideal for players who enjoy strategic deck-building games with a touch of creativity and humor. It is particularly suited for fans of the steampunk genre and those who appreciate the uniqueness of combining different inventions to achieve bizarre and effective results. While it may have a learning curve, the game offers a rewarding experience for those willing to dive into its intricate mechanics and imaginative world.

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