Smash Up*
Smash Up is a unique and engaging "shufflebuilding" game where players combine two distinct factions, each with a 20-card deck, into a single 40-card deck. The game is known for its quirky and diverse factions, each with its own unique mechanics and gameplay style.
Gameplay Overview
- Deck Building: Players choose two factions, like pirates, zombies, or dinosaurs, and shuffle their decks together to form a unique 40-card deck.
- Faction Mechanics: Each faction introduces a different gameplay mechanism, such as moving cards for pirates or resurrecting cards from the discard pile for zombies.
- Controlling Bases: Players compete to have the most power at various bases to earn points. The power dynamics can quickly shift with each faction's abilities.
- Dynamic Gameplay: Interactions between different factions create varied and unpredictable gameplay experiences. For example, Pirate-Aliens will play differently than Ninja-Aliens.
- Scoring: When a base is broken, players in first, second, and third place score points, adding a competitive edge to the game.
- Expansions and Integrations: Smash Up has several expansions that introduce new factions and elements, including "Smash Up: Munchkin," "Smash Up: Pretty Pretty Smash Up," and others.
Conclusion
Smash Up offers a fresh and humorous take on the deck-building genre, with its innovative "shufflebuilding" mechanic and wide range of faction combinations. The game is ideal for players looking for a lighthearted yet strategic experience, full of unexpected twists and turns. The variety of factions and their unique abilities ensure that no two games are the same, providing high replay value and endless entertainment. Whether you're battling with laser-beam dinosaurs or sneaky ninjas, Smash Up is sure to provide a fun and memorable gaming experience.
Nominated for 3 awards and won 1.
- 2 - 4 Players
- 45 Minutes
- 12+ years old
- Easy to learn
We like Smash Up so much that we recommend it in the following board game recommendation lists 2024
- Position 8 in The best games from Paul Peterson 👨
- Position 6 in The best games of the Smash Up series
- Position 58 in The best games presented at the Spiel 2012 game fair in Essen, Germany
- Position 17 in The best games where you can construct your deck of cards before the game starts
- Position 16 in The best games with dinosaurs 🦖
- Position 25 in The best zombie board, card & dice games 🧟♂️