We first heard aboutBioShock Infinite: The Siege of Columbiajust afew weeks ago, and this week,Plaid Hat Gameshas released aPDF of the game’s rulebookfor your perusal. Board game geeks may want to read it from cover to cover; there is some interesting stuff in there.
One of my favorite game mechanics is cards that can be used for multiple functions. It’s an idea that has been employed byGears of War: the Board GameandBattlestar Galactica: the Board Game(also known as “the best board game ever”), and it’s seen inThe Siege of Columbiawith cards that can be used for their combat power, voting influence, or monetary value.
Other notable game mechanics include variable short term objectives, a voting mechanic to attempt to influence Columbia, and multiple story paths for Elizabeth and Booker, who act as neutral characters in the battle between the Founders and the Vox Populi. If Booker and Elizabeth escape Columbia before one faction can declare a victory, then the rulebook even describes the winner as having achieved “a flawed and hollow victory.” Too cool.
Expect a review of The Siege of Columbia when it releases later this year.
