March Madness
March Madness at your next game night?
Add March Madness to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Steve Thompson , Bob Toole , Richard Winter
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co
- Illustration Charles Kibler
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
In March Madness, two players can replay historic NCAA Final Four basketball games using team cards with vital statistics. With more players, you can create a full 64-team tournament. Dice rolls determine scoring resolutions between player positions, while cards influence the scoring ability of unresolved positions, combining chance and strategy.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is aimed at basketball and sports fans aged 10 and up. It is a medium complexity game lasting about 45 minutes, suitable for players interested in historic teams and tactical dice mechanisms. Prior experience with tactical sports board games is helpful but not required.
How It Works
March Madness uses the line-drawing mechanic where dice rolls decide if scoring occurs between six player positions. If no resolution happens, players can play cards to influence position strengths. This creates a tactical blend of luck and strategy simulating basketball gameplay.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Richard Winter, Steve Thompson, and Bob Toole and published by Avalon Hill in 1991, March Madness belongs to the Sports: Basketball family. Its line-drawing mechanic offers a unique tactical element differing from classic sports games.
Pro
- Historic basketball teams with real statistics
- Flexible player count from 2 to 64
- Tactical mix of dice and card play
- About 45 minutes playing time
Contra
- Not suitable for children under 10
- No solo mode available
- Mechanics may be unusual for beginners
Setting & atmosphere
The game focuses on NCAA college basketball Final Four games from the past 40 years in the USA, featuring historic teams and their statistical profiles in tournament or head-to-head modes.
Tips for beginners
Focus on using your cards strategically to strengthen positions and make the most of dice rolls.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
March Madness requires at least two players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A game takes about 45 minutes, making it a medium-length session.
What prior experience do I need?
Designed as a medium complexity game, some experience with tactical board games is helpful.
How does this compare to similar games?
March Madness stands out with its line-drawing mechanic combined with dice and card play, differing from typical sports games.
Is this suitable for families?
With a recommended age of 10+ and medium complexity, it's better suited for families with older children and teens.
What mechanic makes it special?
The line-drawing mechanic combined with dice and cards makes its scoring resolution unique.
Fazit
March Madness is recommended for basketball fans seeking a tactical, historically themed board game. It suits players who enjoy mixing dice luck with strategic card play.
March Madness at your next game night?
Add March Madness to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add March Madness to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
