Objective of the Game
In the board game "The Great Heart," players work cooperatively to complete the symbolic heart on the board before time runs out or threats prevent victory.
Game Components
- A game board representing a heart divided into several segments.
- Deck of cards consisting of: Action cards, Event cards, and Threat cards.
- Tokens: Represent threats and progress.
- Timer: A clock or hourglass to simulate time pressure.
- Markers: Small items used to indicate defeated threats and achieved goals.
Setup
- Set up the board: Place the game board in the center of the table.
- Prepare the cards: Shuffle the action, event, and threat card decks separately and place them face down.
- Place tokens: Randomly distribute some threat tokens across the board according to the rules of the selected difficulty level.
- Markers set aside: Players receive a certain number of markers depending on the number of players.
- Start the timer: Set the timer for the game length time.
Gameplay
The game is played in rounds, each consisting of several phases:
- Action Phase:
- Each player draws an action card in turn and performs the described action.
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Actions may include removing threat tokens, adding progress markers, or using special abilities.
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Event Phase:
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Draw an event card and read it aloud. These events can have positive or negative effects on the game.
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Threat Phase:
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A threat card is drawn and executed. These cards typically add new threats to the board or intensify existing ones.
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End of Round:
- Check the timer. If time has expired or the heart is completed, the game ends.
Win Conditions
- The game ends successfully if the heart is completely filled with progress markers before the timer runs out or if no threats remain on the board.
Loss Conditions
- Players lose if time runs out before the heart is complete or if the number of threats becomes overwhelming.
Strategic Tips
- Coordination is key: Players should communicate effectively regarding which actions to prioritize.
- Resource Management: Markers and special card effects should be used judously.
- Neutralize threats: Focus on neutralizing threats early to minimize their disruptive effect on the heart.
Unique Features
- Some action cards allow players to trade with each other or strategically move marker positions, leading to a dynamic adjustment playstyle.
Understanding these rules and strategies can make "The Great Heart" an exciting and cooperative challenge, requiring both planning and teamwork.
