How to Play the Game Things?.
Introduction
Things is a popular board game designed by Matt Leacock, first released in 2010. The game is known for its unique mechanics, social interaction, and strategic depth. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to play Things, a game that requires teamwork, communication, and a bit of luck.
Number of Players
Things is designed for 2-5 players, making it an excellent game for families, friends, or groups of acquaintances.
Components
The game consists of:
- Game board featuring a map of the world
- 5-6 player tokens and matching player boards
- 100+ Things cards (each representing a different object or concept)
- 20 Action cards (used to resolve conflicts or achieve goals)
- 10 Event cards (used to add an element of surprise to the game)
- 1 Game Master token (used to determine the game’s outcome)
Setup
Before the game begins, each player chooses a token and places it on the starting location on the board. Each player receives a player board and a set of Things cards. The Action cards are shuffled and placed face down on designated spaces on the board.
Gameplay
The game is divided into rounds, with each round representing a day in the game. Each player takes turns in a clockwise direction.
- Turn sequence: The player’s turn consists of three phases:
- Action phase: The player draws an Action card and resolves its effect.
- Event phase: The player draws an Event card and resolves its effect.
- Resolution phase: The player resolves any conflicts or achieves their goals.
- Resolution phase: The player resolves any conflicts or achieves their goals by using their Things cards, Action cards, and Event cards.
Things Cards
Things cards represent different objects or concepts, such as food, animals, or objects. Each Things card has a unique effect, which can be used to resolve conflicts or achieve goals.
- Effect types: There are three types of effects:
- Action: The player can use the effect to resolve a conflict or achieve a goal.
- Event: The player can use the effect to add an element of surprise to the game.
- Pass: The player can use the effect to pass their turn.
- Effect examples: For example, the "Eat a sandwich" effect allows a player to resolve a conflict by using a sandwich as a distraction.
Action Cards
Action cards are used to resolve conflicts or achieve goals. There are several types of Action cards, including:
- Conflict cards: Resolve conflicts between players.
- Goal cards: Achieve specific goals, such as "Collect 10 Things" or "Move to the next location".
- Event cards: Add an element of surprise to the game.
Event Cards
Event cards are used to add an element of surprise to the game. They can be used to resolve conflicts, achieve goals, or change the game’s outcome.
- Event examples: For example, the "Natural disaster" event card can be used to resolve a conflict or change the game’s outcome.
Game Master
The Game Master token is used to determine the game’s outcome. The Game Master draws an Action card and resolves its effect, which can change the game’s outcome.
Tips and Strategies
- Communication is key: Players must communicate effectively to resolve conflicts and achieve goals.
- Use your Things cards wisely: Use your Things cards to resolve conflicts or achieve goals.
- Pay attention to the Game Master: The Game Master’s actions can greatly impact the game’s outcome.
Conclusion
Things is a unique and engaging board game that requires teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can learn how to play Things and enjoy this exciting game with friends and family.
Additional Resources
- Things game manual
- Things online community
- Things YouTube channel
Glossary
- Action: A card that resolves a conflict or achieves a goal.
- Event: A card that adds an element of surprise to the game.
- Game Master: The player who determines the game’s outcome.
- Things: Cards that represent different objects or concepts.
- Token: A player’s token, used to move around the board.
FAQs
- Q: What is the recommended number of players for Things?
A: 2-5 players. - Q: What is the game’s recommended age range?
A: 10 and up. - Q: Can I play Things with friends who are not familiar with board games?
A: Yes, but it may take some time to learn the game’s mechanics and strategies.
