18-card Cricket
- Designer Ben Bateson
- Publisher The Museum of Board Games
- Illustration Ben Bateson , Tony Boydell
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Experience a full cricket match with just 18 cards: 10 for the fielding team and 8 for the batting team. Played on a large table with three dice, the game simulates the interaction between bowler and batsman. The fielding team sets up players and chooses a bowler, while the batsman picks shots to score runs. Play lengths vary from five overs to a full five-day test match.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is designed for two players interested in sports games and cricket specifically. It is a heavier, long-duration game requiring patience and endurance. Prior knowledge of cricket enhances the experience, as it is not a casual family game.
How It Works
The core mechanic is Card Play Conflict Resolution: the fielding team selects a bowler and positions fielders, then tests the batsman using dice and cards. The batsman responds by playing cards to attempt scoring runs. This back-and-forth repeats over multiple overs, with results determined by card choices and dice rolls.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Ben Bateson, 18-card Cricket uniquely simulates the complex sport using minimal components. It belongs to the Sports: Cricket family and features an unusually long playtime for a card game. The blend of card conflict resolution and dice mechanics distinguishes it in the sports card game genre.
Pro
- Authentic cricket simulation with minimal components
- Combination of card and dice elements
- Flexible game length from short matches to full test matches
- Two-player game ideal for cricket fans
Contra
- Extremely long playtime (around 2250 minutes)
- High complexity for non-cricket players
- Not suitable for families or casual players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates traditional cricket, a sport played on a large field with batting and fielding teams. Its theme and design reflect real cricket matches.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the basic cricket mechanics and practice timing your card plays to better enjoy the game.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, 18-card Cricket is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A game can last up to 2250 minutes, depending on chosen length and play speed.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic knowledge of cricket helps, as the game simulates the sport in detail.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its unique blend of Card Play Conflict Resolution and dice captures cricket realistically.
Is this suitable for families?
No, due to length and complexity, it is better suited for experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Card Play Conflict Resolution mechanic realistically models the bowler-batsman duel.
Fazit
18-card Cricket is a compelling choice for cricket enthusiasts seeking a deep, lengthy two-player experience. It is less suited for players unfamiliar with cricket or those with limited time.
