X-Machina (2003) Board Game – Board Game Guys

X-Machina is a board game released in 2003 by Blood & Cardstock Games. It falls under the categories of bluffing, card game, humor industry/manufacturing, and party game. The game is designed for 4-8 players, with the best experience being with 4 players. Players must be at least 12 years old to play and can expect a runtime of around 60 minutes. The game primarily focuses on storytelling as its main mechanism.

Game Components of X-Machina

240 Cog cards representing machine components

60 beautifully illustrated Req cards dictating customer needs

A glossary for looking up Cog cards

Optional: A limited “flagpole” edition with 100 numbered and signed copies by the game designer.

How To Setup X-Machina

To set up X-Machina, players start by shuffling and dealing the Cog cards, which represent various machine components. Each player receives a hand of these cards. The Req cards, which outline the customers’ needs, are also shuffled and placed within reach of all players. The game is ready to begin once all players have their Cog cards and a Req card is drawn to determine the first customer’s need.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Bluffing, Card Game, Humor

Mechanics: Storytelling

Objective: Players take turns being contractors who must construct machines using their Cog cards to fulfill the unreasonable demands of customers. The player who convinces the customer with the best invention wins the contract.

Gameplay: Players draw Req cards, which specify the customer’s need (e.g., traffic plow, holiday-in-a-can). Other players then use their Cog cards (e.g., taffy puller, moldy bread, chain saw) to create a machine that meets the customer’s requirement. The customer selects the most convincing invention.

Player Experience

X-Machina is a creative, funny, and imaginative game that encourages players to think outside the box. It has a similar format to games like Apple-to-Apples, where the creativity and storytelling of the players are key to winning. The game is highly interactive and engaging, making it a blast for families and friends. Players appreciate the humor and silliness involved in inventing impossible machines from improbable parts.

Pros

Creative and Imaginative: Encourages creative thinking and storytelling.

Highly Interactive: Engages all players in a fun and humorous way.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for families with children aged 12 and above.

Replay Value: Numerous combinations of Cog and Req cards ensure varied gameplay each time.

Cons

Complexity: May require some time for new players to grasp the mechanics.

Limited Availability: The game might be harder to find due to its age and niche publisher.

User Rating: Some users have rated the game lower, possibly due to the bluffing mechanic not appealing to everyone.

Personal Thoughts on X-Machina

X-Machina is perfect for groups looking for a light-hearted, creative game that fosters imagination and humor. It is ideal for families, casual game nights, or any gathering where creativity and laughter are valued. However, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer more strategic or competitive games. If you enjoy games that challenge your creative thinking and appreciate a good laugh, X-Machina is an excellent addition to your game collection.

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