Mouse Trap is a classic board game renowned for its elaborate, chain-reaction gameplay, often described as a playable Rube Goldberg machine.
Originally known as Mouse Trap Game, it was first published by Ideal in 1963. This iconic game is designed for two to four players and holds a significant place in board game history as one of the very first mass-produced three-dimensional board games. Its unique appeal lies in its interactive setup and often humorous outcomes.
Gameplay and Mechanics
The core of Mouse Trap's gameplay revolves around the construction and activation of a complex contraption, inspired by the whimsical designs of a Rube Goldberg machine. Players at first cooperate to build a working mouse trap using various plastic components.
Key aspects of the game include:
- Cooperative Building Phase: Initially, players work together to assemble the intricate components of the mouse trap. This involves piecing together various elements like the crank, gears, lever, diver, bathtub, and the trap itself.
- Competitive Play: Once the trap is built, the game shifts to a competitive mode. Players move their mouse pawns around the game board, aiming to collect cheese pieces and strategically navigate the spaces.
- Trapping Opponents: The ultimate objective is to maneuver an opponent's mouse pawn onto the "Cheese Wheel" space and then activate the Rube Goldberg machine. The elaborate sequence of actions, from the diver falling into the tub to the cage dropping, is a highlight of the game, leading to the capture of an opponent's mouse.
The game uniquely blends construction, strategy, and a bit of luck, making it engaging for a wide range of ages. Its physical, three-dimensional nature provides a tactile and visually stimulating experience, setting it apart from many traditional flat board games.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Mouse Trap (board game) Wikipedia page.
