Instructions Magic Maze

Objective

The goal of Magic Maze is for all players to work together to navigate four heroes (a Barbarian, Mage, Elf, and Dwarf) through a shopping mall. Each hero must find their equipment and reach the exit before time runs out, all while avoiding getting caught too much on security cameras.

Components

• 24 Exploration tiles
• 4 Hero pawns (Barbarian, Mage, Elf, Dwarf)
• 1 Sand timer
• 9 Action tiles
• Various special function markers

Setup

1. Prepare the play area: Place the exploration tile with the star symbol in the middle of the table. The hero pawns start on this tile.
2. Distribute action tiles: Each player receives at least one action tile. These tiles indicate what specific movements or actions the player may perform for ALL heroes. Examples: Move north, use escalator, etc.
3. Get the sand timer ready: Place the sand timer and turn it over to start.

Gameplay

1. Cooperative play without verbal communication: Players can only communicate verbally during specific phases or through using a special token ("Do something now!" token). The rest of the game is played in silence.
2. Move heroes and explore tiles: Actions are executed immediately without needing other players' permission. Players may move heroes on the map, explore new tiles (by entering an adjacent exploration space), and use holes in the floor (to get to other tiles).
3. Watching the sand timer: Players must coordinate their actions to occasionally flip the sand timer. Certain tiles allow the sand timer to be flipped; these are vital to avoid running out of time.
4. Utilize countermeasures: Some tiles have special functions that can ease or speed up tasks.

Victory and Loss Conditions

• Win: Players win together if they manage to find each hero’s equipment and safely lead all heroes to the exits before the time (sand timer) runs out.
• Lose: The game is lost if time runs out before all conditions are fulfilled.

Strategic Tips

• Efficient timing: Coordinating the use of sand timer flipping spots is crucial as these return valuable time.
• Non-verbal communication: Try to give subtle hints to your teammates through actions like skillful movement of heroes without speaking.
• Positive stress: The frantic flipping of the sand timer and communication limitations add to the tension. This can lead to both confusion and fun moments.