RoboRally

RoboRally is a board game originally designed by Richard Garfield and published by Wizards of the Coast in 1994. The game focuses on programming robots to navigate through a dangerous factory floor, often referred to as "The Factory," with the ultimate goal of reaching a series of checkpoints in a specific order.

Gameplay revolves around each player simultaneously selecting a set of programming cards representing robot movements (forward, backward, turn left, turn right, etc.) and actions (power up, etc.). These cards are arranged in sequence to create a program for the robot. Once all players have programmed their robots, the rounds are executed one step at a time, with each player revealing one card from their program at a time.

The factory floor is filled with hazards such as conveyor belts, laser beams, pits, and crushers, which can damage or destroy the robots. Robots can also interact with each other, pushing opponents into hazards or blocking their paths. The game is known for its chaotic and unpredictable nature, as robots often veer off course due to unexpected interactions with the environment and other players.

A key element of the game is robot damage. Robots have a limited number of hit points. Damage can impair a robot's functionality, reducing the number of programming cards they can use each round, potentially causing them to lose control. Sufficient damage can even destroy a robot, forcing the player to restart from a designated repair bay.

RoboRally emphasizes strategic planning and adaptation. Players must anticipate not only the hazards on the board but also the actions of their opponents. Successfully navigating the factory and reaching the checkpoints before the other players requires careful planning, quick thinking, and a healthy dose of luck. The game has been reprinted and reimagined in various editions and formats over the years.