I LOVE this game! I bought it in 1994 (2nd Edition) with metal minis and it's so funny. The rule book is perfect with program flow charts you can easily follow. The additional options cards make it even more funny.
Haha, loved your review. But as an alumni of the esteemed Clown Robot Academy Prefecture I definitely fall into the category of loving the absolute chaos this game provides. We tend to play single board, usually 3 flags. That way people still get in each other's way a lot, which is part of the chaos. Avoid "The Pit" board because that one can just die in a fire.
I loved Robo Rally. But then again, I was an engineer, and a programmer by profession (ie. a bit of a masochist). Also, keep in mind that the last version of Robo Rally is a bit different from the version you reviewed, plus there is another brand new version coming out shortly. And all sorts of things changed after the AH version., (honestly, while they fixed some of the problems with it, they also stole some of the best features of it, imho). Plus, unfortunately, the old maps (which I think were great, partly because of how sadistic they could be, partly because of the greater variety of map items) were not compatible with the newer versions. I have no idea what the upcoming version will be like. That said, I'll admit that the game isn't for everyone. All my friends, back in the day, who mostly were programmers, LOVED the game (no surprise). But our brains have been trained to think differently than normal people, in a way that makes programming kind of intuitive, so there's that. I do realize that when I've tried to introduce the game to non-programmers later on, that while some people did take to it, not everyone did. It's definitely a niche game.
I’m a collector of fun 6+ players board games. I purchased the original recently, and I have played it four times know. 3 times at four players and once at 6 players. And every game has been entertaining. The 6 player exp was by far the most entertaining. The key is. Stick to the single map. I can definitely see how more than one map in play could be daunting. But the single map keeps things ‘tight’. Overall. I’d rank it at the top for “most fun” gaming experiences. Easy to teach, and a quick play. I should say “quick play” if you’re playing with intelligent people. The game isn’t very forgiving to people that struggle with special reasoning. But so fun to watch people fail miserably.
We love this game. There was a version after yours that did 10x10 maps rather than 12x12. That was a decrease in area by 31% which meant there was much more interaction. There is a new version out very soon which goes back to 12x12 maps. Sadly, I think that was a mistake. But, that new version has some improvements in play. I will probably get the new version, but wished they had gone with the 10x10s. BTW, this and your Cyclades videos have made me want to subscribe.
I think they've addressed many of your concerns in the new one coming out in a few months by Renegade Studios, certainly looks a LOT better. The gameplay changes look good. Let's hope you're wrong about your final conclusion though... cos I've preordered it!! 😮😂
Right and wrong are always a personal preference thing, and it seems especially true for this game. I hope you get a lot of fun from it, and I'm glad that the game is finally getting a return to a better quality product.
just upgraded my 2010 version to the 2023 version. there are some subtle but highly consequential changes that i believe were introduced in 2016 but are new to me. every robot has it's own deck now and damage is in the form of adding cards to that deck instead of locking out the registers. this introduces something of a deck management element to the game that imo is a vast improvement over the older version i played. it also means this system is more open to expansion via adding cards. and in case anyone is wondering: components are upgraded; -prepainted minis -full sized cards of decent quality -standard thickness factory boards (the player mats are still the thin kind) -standard thickness tokens -the rulebook is sewn instead of stapled, which is nice considering it's thickness. (it contains lots of clarifications, examples and reference stuff)
That game was one of our group's first game addictions. We had the 1995 Garfield Games edition. The game boards were one sided, very sturdy, and less of a headache, the minis were metal, there were no player boards (the rules were simpler), and it didn't even have a sand timer. Why did Alalon Hill muck it up?
Let's see what the new (Renegade games) version does. The claim was they were going to take the games back to the Garfield / WOTC version, rather than the increasingly cheapskate versions.~~
@@iansutton7416 I'll be waiting for that review. Boardgames have progressed so much. Let's see if they can actually do something other than reprint and add more 💩
Never use more than 1 map piece and 3 flags, placed so that robos need to pass each other during the trip from flag to flag. Also, the original version is so much better for components, map variety and .... just everything like the outlook and colours etc. Great game with 4-5 friends :). Yes, it is excercise in frustration, but so is Nemesis and it is in my top 5 games :).
Love your reviews, it's really refreshing to see someone not trying to suck off the UA-cam algorithm and to focus on whether a game is actually fun to play or not worth the arse piles it'll give you sitting there for 2+ hours. Keep up the good work!
Lol! The complaints can be valid. It can take too long, and it can be hard to play it accurately (just as it is to not fxxk up) when drinking, and I would not break this out on just anyone or any gamer. It is fun, but you should only be pulling this out on people who know what they are going to be getting into. Not an introductory game, and not for everyone. Sort of like Arkham Horror.
Agree with you, I have this game since 2013 or so and I still love it. It has been soooo fun every single time we have played it, although it is true a game can last so long depending on the players. Still I love it and I will keep it in the collection.
My first, and last, experience of this game was only marginally less painful and degrading than squatting, naked, on a belt sander. Hieronymus Bosch would have been inspired by this tosh.
We love this game (and yes, we have the version you're "reviewed" here). The components are plenty sturdy, colorful and the game is chaotic fun. You do need to be able to laugh at the absurdity of "bad" card hands, and at your own mistakes, so maybe that's a "you" issue? I mean, it's fine not to love every game, but this game makes me wonder if you like games more fun than actually gut-stabbing each other with knives. I'd grant that for this version at least, it would be nicer to have easier access to the upgrade cards, and it's true that we generally stick to the single-map games, but there are enough map boards that it's still one of our regulars.
I love this game, but I know people who despise it. The difference comes down to this: Do you hate having your plans destroyed, or do you delight in the chaos that ensues when your plans get destroyed? If you are in the former camp (like my wife is) this game isn't for you. Its a rare game with a sharp dividing line between people who love it or hate it for the same reason. 2 additional reasons why I may like this game more than others. Components. I have the first edition. It's boards are more substantial, and the mini's are metal, which I took a little time to paint. So it seems a bit more deluxe than the current editions. And Second, we NEVER play large maps. Trying 3 or more boards turns the game into a slog, and also decreases the chaotic robot interaction which the games fans love. So throw away that map book. Shorten your maps to 2 boards maximum. Place a few flags out there, maybe one in an easy spot and another in a tough spot, and let it rip. Honestly, if you only have 2 or 3 players, a single map board is plenty. Oh, one more thing. Our game didn't come with a sand timer, but we added one. Why? Analysis Paralysis. We have a couple of players who would take FOREVER to program their turn. Allowing that turns an action filled slap dash of a game into a dreary all afternoon drudge. It gets worse, because the AP prone players also tend to be the ones who hate having their plans ruined anyway. So not only do they take forever on their turns, but they also get irate when their long worked on plan goes awry ANYWAY. Use the timers, and if you don't LIKE the timers, you probably don't like the game anyway.
Likewise I've got the late 1990s 2nd edition and its quality indeed was good on boards and metal minis. Modern versions are so much flimsier, and most rules changes were detrimental. Fully agreed in the map length, indeed better to have 2 short sprint races, than a mega grind across 3 complex boards.
@@BoardGameBollocks Galaxy trucker is one of my all time favorite chaos games with this being the 2nd. I think most people have hit it on the head, that the length of the game can get to some people. Using only one board and adding a sand timer seems like that would work to speed it up if that was the big issue. I think what you didn't like was that it was still lacking chaos in comparison to a game like Galaxy trucker. When my group plays we remove mechanical arm (it's broken) then deal out 3 upgrades to each person. They then pick one and start the game with that upgrade. So the entire game becomes a mad dash to the flags while trying to avoid being shot with a push beam or a register scrambler or mind control. Changes the dynamic of the game from the get go and adds plenty of chaos.
We had the original with the metal figures. I was waxing lyrical about fun old times playing this as a kid, recently. A gamer mate bought it based on that. We played it... He reminds me all the time and curses me each time.
And in spite of all that, it's still in your library! 😛 I have that same edition and also have never ditched it, even though I fully agree with your review. I loved how Colt Express took the programming mechanic and made it fun.
You are correct about everything you said about this game, but I still like it. I do have a newer version, (c) 2015. It has much better boards, nice thick and look nice. The game also only supports 6 players though. It's not a game I would buy now, and I only want to play it once in a blue moon, but it's fun to just toss in some crazy game play and everyone usually gets a good laugh out of it. We usually only play with a max of 2 boards and 4 flags or less. Good review though. :)
I like Napalm Death, dangit! I haven't played Robo Rally in years though, I had the original version when the minis were metal and the maps were nicer.
Where are my rusty scissors and my napalm death lp? Gonna have fun tonight 😂... Excellent review as usual. Glad I got rid of my 1st edition for a very good price recently. There are so many better games (like almost all of them) even by Dick Garfield himself...
I don't agree, I like it, Its fun, frustrating yes, long yes. C U Next Tuesday 😉, I have the original version, better build materials and metal minis too 🤖
I own the AH 2005 edition, Its the oldest game in my collection (that I still own) and one of my favs! It doesnt hit the table often but its always a good time when it does! Pro tip: To make this good game great make sure there is alcohol involved!
We've got the 2016 version, the rules have been updated but it still takes ages to play. Whenever it hits the table nowadays we play 4 players max, and only ever put 2 flags out (the second being the winner) any more is just insanity as the game will linger for ages. It's a laugh for the first half hour or so then the randomness quickly wears thin. Great review pal!
I think the criticism is the draw of it. Everyone gets screwed in this game and it's funny if you have the right mindset. The time thing is absolutely true though. The last half-hour is usually just spent praying that the leader just finishes off the damn race. One other thing that sucks about it: so much card shuffling.
Game length is a common criticism, but that's often down to overambitious race courses. A game that definitely needs shorter courses, especially with more players.
Nothing wrong with a bit of pain and suffering on the table. But I recommend a game of monopoly with all the shitty house rules that were conceived over the years.
Liked the idea, but not the execution. Mechs vs. Minions is the best version of this idea, and has a cooperative campaign to boot. I haven't played Quirky Circuits, but that seems like it would also be a decent version too. Volt! is probably the best for a Player vs Player robot battle arena with no randomness (except for power up weapons).
"is just an exersice on frustration" is such a perfect way to describe it. Just played it once and it was one time to many, is not engaging nor fun and you can feel that is an outdated game immediately
Agreed but I’d only say the second edition. 1st had some issues that made me sell but 2nd has thankfully addressed them all. Super excited to get the physical copy.
The only proper way to play this, is to play 6+ players on a single board. Chaos ensues and after 1 hour you call it quits as only 2 or 3 robots have survived for that long and the rest is just going to be boring.
Come on, the hourglass timer is a key ingredient in what makes the game fun. You WANT to see mistakes, you WANT to see chaos. Therefor you NEED to use the timer so that you force some errors and memorable mistakes. If everyone is playing perfectly then what's the point.
I LOVE this game! I bought it in 1994 (2nd Edition) with metal minis and it's so funny. The rule book is perfect with program flow charts you can easily follow. The additional options cards make it even more funny.
Haha, loved your review. But as an alumni of the esteemed Clown Robot Academy Prefecture I definitely fall into the category of loving the absolute chaos this game provides. We tend to play single board, usually 3 flags. That way people still get in each other's way a lot, which is part of the chaos. Avoid "The Pit" board because that one can just die in a fire.
I loved Robo Rally. But then again, I was an engineer, and a programmer by profession (ie. a bit of a masochist). Also, keep in mind that the last version of Robo Rally is a bit different from the version you reviewed, plus there is another brand new version coming out shortly. And all sorts of things changed after the AH version., (honestly, while they fixed some of the problems with it, they also stole some of the best features of it, imho). Plus, unfortunately, the old maps (which I think were great, partly because of how sadistic they could be, partly because of the greater variety of map items) were not compatible with the newer versions. I have no idea what the upcoming version will be like.
That said, I'll admit that the game isn't for everyone. All my friends, back in the day, who mostly were programmers, LOVED the game (no surprise). But our brains have been trained to think differently than normal people, in a way that makes programming kind of intuitive, so there's that. I do realize that when I've tried to introduce the game to non-programmers later on, that while some people did take to it, not everyone did. It's definitely a niche game.
I played this back in the 90s and had fun in group play. Iv you are okay with chaos, it can be fun. I'm looking forward to the new Renegade release.
I’m a collector of fun 6+ players board games. I purchased the original recently, and I have played it four times know. 3 times at four players and once at 6 players. And every game has been entertaining. The 6 player exp was by far the most entertaining. The key is. Stick to the single map. I can definitely see how more than one map in play could be daunting. But the single map keeps things ‘tight’. Overall. I’d rank it at the top for “most fun” gaming experiences. Easy to teach, and a quick play. I should say “quick play” if you’re playing with intelligent people. The game isn’t very forgiving to people that struggle with special reasoning. But so fun to watch people fail miserably.
We love this game. There was a version after yours that did 10x10 maps rather than 12x12. That was a decrease in area by 31% which meant there was much more interaction. There is a new version out very soon which goes back to 12x12 maps. Sadly, I think that was a mistake. But, that new version has some improvements in play. I will probably get the new version, but wished they had gone with the 10x10s. BTW, this and your Cyclades videos have made me want to subscribe.
👍🏻
I think they've addressed many of your concerns in the new one coming out in a few months by Renegade Studios, certainly looks a LOT better.
The gameplay changes look good.
Let's hope you're wrong about your final conclusion though... cos I've preordered it!! 😮😂
Right and wrong are always a personal preference thing, and it seems especially true for this game. I hope you get a lot of fun from it, and I'm glad that the game is finally getting a return to a better quality product.
Slowly but surely you're becoming one of the best stand-up comedians in the universe 😂😂😂
Multiverse mate
just upgraded my 2010 version to the 2023 version.
there are some subtle but highly consequential changes that i believe were introduced in 2016 but are new to me.
every robot has it's own deck now and damage is in the form of adding cards to that deck instead of locking out the registers.
this introduces something of a deck management element to the game that imo is a vast improvement over the older version i played.
it also means this system is more open to expansion via adding cards.
and in case anyone is wondering: components are upgraded;
-prepainted minis
-full sized cards of decent quality
-standard thickness factory boards (the player mats are still the thin kind)
-standard thickness tokens
-the rulebook is sewn instead of stapled, which is nice considering it's thickness.
(it contains lots of clarifications, examples and reference stuff)
Thanks for this mini-review 🙂
That game was one of our group's first game addictions. We had the 1995 Garfield Games edition. The game boards were one sided, very sturdy, and less of a headache, the minis were metal, there were no player boards (the rules were simpler), and it didn't even have a sand timer. Why did Alalon Hill muck it up?
Let's see what the new (Renegade games) version does. The claim was they were going to take the games back to the Garfield / WOTC version, rather than the increasingly cheapskate versions.~~
Nooooooooooo!!!?!!!?! Not being reprinted please…
@@BoardGameBollocks you'll not be forced to buy it.
@@iansutton7416 🤣Yeah, but who can afford $175 for a badly torn up Garfield version on e-bay?
@@iansutton7416 I'll be waiting for that review. Boardgames have progressed so much. Let's see if they can actually do something other than reprint and add more 💩
This is the sort of content I subscribed for. 🤣
Never use more than 1 map piece and 3 flags, placed so that robos need to pass each other during the trip from flag to flag. Also, the original version is so much better for components, map variety and .... just everything like the outlook and colours etc. Great game with 4-5 friends :). Yes, it is excercise in frustration, but so is Nemesis and it is in my top 5 games :).
I've played RoboRally once. And that was one time more than I would like.
Love your reviews, it's really refreshing to see someone not trying to suck off the UA-cam algorithm and to focus on whether a game is actually fun to play or not worth the arse piles it'll give you sitting there for 2+ hours. Keep up the good work!
I’ve never sucked off an algorithm
Lol! The complaints can be valid. It can take too long, and it can be hard to play it accurately (just as it is to not fxxk up) when drinking, and I would not break this out on just anyone or any gamer. It is fun, but you should only be pulling this out on people who know what they are going to be getting into. Not an introductory game, and not for everyone. Sort of like Arkham Horror.
The brand spanking new edition from Renegade Games is excellent (and compatible with the old boards, if that matters to you).
You nailed it! I played it once many years ago. I am glad it leaves a lasting impression, that way I won't likely play it again. Cheers.
Agree with you, I have this game since 2013 or so and I still love it. It has been soooo fun every single time we have played it, although it is true a game can last so long depending on the players. Still I love it and I will keep it in the collection.
My first, and last, experience of this game was only marginally less painful and degrading than squatting, naked, on a belt sander. Hieronymus Bosch would have been inspired by this tosh.
We love this game (and yes, we have the version you're "reviewed" here). The components are plenty sturdy, colorful and the game is chaotic fun. You do need to be able to laugh at the absurdity of "bad" card hands, and at your own mistakes, so maybe that's a "you" issue? I mean, it's fine not to love every game, but this game makes me wonder if you like games more fun than actually gut-stabbing each other with knives.
I'd grant that for this version at least, it would be nicer to have easier access to the upgrade cards, and it's true that we generally stick to the single-map games, but there are enough map boards that it's still one of our regulars.
“Why do you keep using quotation marks”?
@@BoardGameBollocks I "like" them :)
I love this game, but I know people who despise it. The difference comes down to this: Do you hate having your plans destroyed, or do you delight in the chaos that ensues when your plans get destroyed? If you are in the former camp (like my wife is) this game isn't for you. Its a rare game with a sharp dividing line between people who love it or hate it for the same reason.
2 additional reasons why I may like this game more than others. Components. I have the first edition. It's boards are more substantial, and the mini's are metal, which I took a little time to paint. So it seems a bit more deluxe than the current editions.
And Second, we NEVER play large maps. Trying 3 or more boards turns the game into a slog, and also decreases the chaotic robot interaction which the games fans love. So throw away that map book. Shorten your maps to 2 boards maximum. Place a few flags out there, maybe one in an easy spot and another in a tough spot, and let it rip. Honestly, if you only have 2 or 3 players, a single map board is plenty.
Oh, one more thing. Our game didn't come with a sand timer, but we added one. Why? Analysis Paralysis. We have a couple of players who would take FOREVER to program their turn. Allowing that turns an action filled slap dash of a game into a dreary all afternoon drudge. It gets worse, because the AP prone players also tend to be the ones who hate having their plans ruined anyway. So not only do they take forever on their turns, but they also get irate when their long worked on plan goes awry ANYWAY. Use the timers, and if you don't LIKE the timers, you probably don't like the game anyway.
It’s weird because I love Galaxy Trucker and Space Alert but this is poo.
Likewise I've got the late 1990s 2nd edition and its quality indeed was good on boards and metal minis. Modern versions are so much flimsier, and most rules changes were detrimental.
Fully agreed in the map length, indeed better to have 2 short sprint races, than a mega grind across 3 complex boards.
@@BoardGameBollocks Galaxy trucker is one of my all time favorite chaos games with this being the 2nd. I think most people have hit it on the head, that the length of the game can get to some people. Using only one board and adding a sand timer seems like that would work to speed it up if that was the big issue. I think what you didn't like was that it was still lacking chaos in comparison to a game like Galaxy trucker. When my group plays we remove mechanical arm (it's broken) then deal out 3 upgrades to each person. They then pick one and start the game with that upgrade. So the entire game becomes a mad dash to the flags while trying to avoid being shot with a push beam or a register scrambler or mind control. Changes the dynamic of the game from the get go and adds plenty of chaos.
I'll admit it brought back memories with the mention of Napalm Death.Thanks for the honest review.
We had the original with the metal figures. I was waxing lyrical about fun old times playing this as a kid, recently. A gamer mate bought it based on that. We played it... He reminds me all the time and curses me each time.
So refreshing. I KNOW that was an honest review!
This game is like listening to Ice Ice Baby…you feel a little dirty liking it and subjecting others to it
Speak for yourself 😂
And in spite of all that, it's still in your library! 😛 I have that same edition and also have never ditched it, even though I fully agree with your review. I loved how Colt Express took the programming mechanic and made it fun.
I bought it to review it. On the BBQ now
You are correct about everything you said about this game, but I still like it. I do have a newer version, (c) 2015. It has much better boards, nice thick and look nice. The game also only supports 6 players though. It's not a game I would buy now, and I only want to play it once in a blue moon, but it's fun to just toss in some crazy game play and everyone usually gets a good laugh out of it. We usually only play with a max of 2 boards and 4 flags or less. Good review though. :)
J adore ce jeu...encore joué ce week end !
I like Napalm Death, dangit!
I haven't played Robo Rally in years though, I had the original version when the minis were metal and the maps were nicer.
Where are my rusty scissors and my napalm death lp? Gonna have fun tonight 😂...
Excellent review as usual. Glad I got rid of my 1st edition for a very good price recently. There are so many better games (like almost all of them) even by Dick Garfield himself...
Didn't expect a Napalm Death reference in this one.
I don't agree, I like it, Its fun, frustrating yes, long yes. C U Next Tuesday
😉, I have the original version, better build materials and metal minis too 🤖
I own the AH 2005 edition, Its the oldest game in my collection (that I still own) and one of my favs! It doesnt hit the table often but its always a good time when it does!
Pro tip: To make this good game great make sure there is alcohol involved!
I don’t drink mate…maybe that’s why it’s crap 🤷♂️
@@BoardGameBollocks Might be part of it 😄
I thought this video was about the new 2023 version of the game
I’d avoid it like the plague
We've got the 2016 version, the rules have been updated but it still takes ages to play. Whenever it hits the table nowadays we play 4 players max, and only ever put 2 flags out (the second being the winner) any more is just insanity as the game will linger for ages. It's a laugh for the first half hour or so then the randomness quickly wears thin. Great review pal!
I think the criticism is the draw of it. Everyone gets screwed in this game and it's funny if you have the right mindset. The time thing is absolutely true though. The last half-hour is usually just spent praying that the leader just finishes off the damn race. One other thing that sucks about it: so much card shuffling.
Game length is a common criticism, but that's often down to overambitious race courses. A game that definitely needs shorter courses, especially with more players.
My favorite BG Hooligan
Nothing wrong with a bit of pain and suffering on the table. But I recommend a game of monopoly with all the shitty house rules that were conceived over the years.
All fines to free parking. And if you land on it you get the cash for nothing…makes my day every time 😳
Recommended alternatives?
Space Alert, Colt Express and Mechs Vs Minions
@@BoardGameBollocks cool! Thanks!
Fantastic analysis...apart from I quite like Napalm Death on a Sunday afternoon!
My sister was into them…sounded like someone had a severe case of piles to me.
Liked the idea, but not the execution. Mechs vs. Minions is the best version of this idea, and has a cooperative campaign to boot. I haven't played Quirky Circuits, but that seems like it would also be a decent version too. Volt! is probably the best for a Player vs Player robot battle arena with no randomness (except for power up weapons).
Space alert is another great programming game. Just a shame the rule book is an unnecessary pain in the bum.
Love this classic, have my 1994 edition, and still have friends that love it. My wife hates it and wants to send it to Hell.
Daisywheel!!!!! 😂 classic
Can I have "game types that are better as video games" for 10 points?
I wouldn’t play this as a video game either but you can have the points anyway
"is just an exersice on frustration" is such a perfect way to describe it. Just played it once and it was one time to many, is not engaging nor fun and you can feel that is an outdated game immediately
I have no friends, so I can't play this game. Thanks for the review entertaining as always.
I want to defend Roborally but … dang, you are right.
It’s going in the bin.
Dusty bin…
@@BoardGameBollocks Send it me I need more boards :)
You need a psychiatric evaluation before I send them
Quodd heroes is a better updated robo rally.
Agreed but I’d only say the second edition. 1st had some issues that made me sell but 2nd has thankfully addressed them all. Super excited to get the physical copy.
The only proper way to play this, is to play 6+ players on a single board. Chaos ensues and after 1 hour you call it quits as only 2 or 3 robots have survived for that long and the rest is just going to be boring.
lol...savage.
i havent and wont watch the video till the end, but what i can say, yes, it is still worth it 🙂
I am participationing in all that youtube bullshit.
Cheers mush 👍🏻
Looks terrible. Fantastic review and as entertaining as ever.😂
Come on, the hourglass timer is a key ingredient in what makes the game fun. You WANT to see mistakes, you WANT to see chaos. Therefor you NEED to use the timer so that you force some errors and memorable mistakes. If everyone is playing perfectly then what's the point.
Sorry mate. I binned it.
So, it’s a “no” from me and it’s a “no” from him.
Never even heard of it but thanks. not her great video.
😂
Love the woke free content! No blue hair and idiotic pronouns.
I just died it, they…
I can tell you like the Game, your just in denial 😉
Poppycock!