Lifeboats
- Designer Ronald Wettering
- Publisher Argentum Verlag , Walter Müller's Spielewerkstatt , Z-Man Games
- Illustration Matthias Catrein , Wolfgang Steinmeyer
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Lifeboats, players control one of six lifeboats trying to reach islands after a boating accident. Only one boat moves forward each round, so players must negotiate and vote to advance their boat. Players frequently switch boats, and when a leak occurs, the group votes who gets thrown overboard. This creates a tense social dynamic full of negotiation and shifting alliances.
Who Is This Game For?
Lifeboats is suited for 3 to 6 players who enjoy social negotiation games. It is a medium-weight game lasting about 90 minutes and recommended for ages 12 and up. Prior experience with negotiation games helps but is not required.
How It Works
The core mechanics include Player Elimination, Simultaneous Action Selection, and Voting. Players simultaneously choose which boat to advance and vote on who to remove from a leaking boat. Negotiation and voting decisions drive the gameplay and player interaction.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Ronald Wettering, Lifeboats stands out as a social negotiation game relying on player interaction rather than complex strategy. Unlike many 90s board games, it avoids resource management and focuses on voting and player elimination.
Pro
- Strong social interaction through negotiation and voting
- Dynamic gameplay with shifting alliances
- Player elimination adds tension
- Ideal player count of 3 to 6
Contra
- Not playable solo or with two players
- Relatively long playtime around 90 minutes
- Requires patience and willingness to communicate
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in a maritime disaster where six lifeboats attempt to reach islands. Players take roles of survivors fighting for survival.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on negotiation and voting to stay in the game, and pay attention to other players’ behavior.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Lifeboats requires at least 3 players and is not designed for solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A game of Lifeboats typically lasts about 90 minutes, depending on player interaction.
What prior experience do I need?
It’s a medium-weight game that benefits from some negotiation experience but welcomes newcomers.
How does this compare to similar games?
Lifeboats focuses heavily on social interaction and voting-based player elimination, unlike traditional strategy games.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 12 and medium complexity, it suits experienced family players better than young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Player Elimination, Simultaneous Action Selection, and Voting makes it unique.
Fazit
Lifeboats provides an engaging negotiation experience for groups valuing social interaction over pure strategy. It is recommended for players looking for interactive and dynamic gameplay.
