Stay Alive
- Designer Gordon A. Barlow
- Publisher Child's Play (International) Ltd , Dal Negro , Globo Giocattoli , Hasbro , MB Giochi
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Stay Alive, players place marbles on a 7x7 board with sliding rows and columns. Each turn, you shift a slider to open holes under opponents' marbles, trying to make them fall through while keeping your own safe. The last player with marbles remaining wins. The game blends risk-taking with tactical positioning in a unique 3D setting.
Who Is This Game For?
Stay Alive is suitable for families and casual gamers aged 8 and up who enjoy simple rules with strategic depth. With a playtime around 30 minutes, it fits well into short gaming sessions. No prior experience is needed, making it accessible to beginners.
How It Works
The game uses Player Elimination and Push Your Luck mechanics on a 7x7 grid composed of sliders that can be set in three positions. Players place marbles on safe spots, then take turns adjusting sliders to expose holes. Marbles above holes fall through and are eliminated. The last player with marbles on the board wins.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Gordon A. Barlow, Stay Alive was nominated for the 2003 Japan Boardgame Prize Best Japanese Game. Its unique 3D sliding board with holes creates a distinctive mechanic uncommon in abstract strategy games, combining tactical depth with simple rules.
Awards
2003
Pro
- Simple and fast rules
- Strategic depth despite straightforward mechanics
- Player elimination adds tension
- Short playtime of about 30 minutes
Contra
- Limited to 2-4 players
- Player elimination can frustrate early losers
- Abstract theme lacks narrative depth
Setting & Atmosphäre
Stay Alive is an abstract game without a thematic setting. Its focus lies on the mechanical 7x7 sliding board with holes that challenge players to keep their marbles alive.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on shifting sliders to keep your marbles safe while minimizing risky moves.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Stay Alive is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not have a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 30 minutes, allowing for quick sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game has simple rules, making it suitable for beginners and families.
How does this compare to similar games?
Stay Alive's unique 3D sliding board sets it apart from traditional abstract strategy games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is suitable from age 8 and features accessible mechanics for family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Player Elimination and Push Your Luck on a 3D sliding board is its defining feature.
Fazit
Stay Alive is a quick, abstract strategy game ideal for families and casual players seeking tactical challenge without complexity.
