Physical Removal

Physical Removal in Board Games

Physical removal is a game mechanic where players actively remove game components, which can include cards, tokens, or even other players from the board or game. This mechanic is intertwined with gameplay strategies and significantly affects the game’s progression and player dynamics.

Function and Impact

The primary function of physical removal is to create direct interaction between players, often fostering a competitive atmosphere. It impacts gameplay by:

• Allowing strategic removal of opponents' pieces to hinder their progress or to benefit the acting player.
• Introducing an element of risk management, where players must protect their own pieces from removal.
• Influencing the game's pacing and can lead to a game state known as "player elimination," where one or more players are removed entirely from the game and have to wait until the game concludes.

Examples

Some popular board games that employ the physical removal mechanic are:

• Chess: Eliminating opponent's pieces is core to the game's strategy.
• Risk: Players attack territories to remove opponents' armies and conquer the map.
• Survive: Escape from Atlantis: Players remove tiles to simulate a sinking island, impacting the movement and survival of player pawns.

In conclusion, physical removal is a dynamic mechanic that shapes the strategic landscape of many board games, creating interactive and often intense gameplay experiences.