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And players face off against the ridiculously costumed gangs that are one of the movie\u2019s most memorable elements: the suspiciously mime-like Hi-Hats, the vaguely mechanic-ish Rogues, the all-female Lizzies, and yes, the baseball-themed Furies. Each gang has its own thematic complication in combat, and each gets its own adorably detailed plastic mini. (Aww, lookit the teensy little crowbar the Rogue is wielding.) Those minis occupy a reputation track on the board, and move up or down as the Warriors fight each gang in turn. Wins give the players a better rep, which grants them a small combat benefit and a buffer against losing the game by tanking their reputation.<\/p>\n

But above all, the game reproduces the movie\u2019s feeling of dread and hanging on the edge at all times, which may be the deciding factor in whether a given group enjoys playing it. One group Polygon playtested The Warriors <\/em>with hated the sensation of never leveling up to the point where they could handily dominate a fight. When each new battle became a scrabble to hang onto their diminishing decks, they felt overwhelmed and defensive in a way they didn\u2019t enjoy. (Players who despise race-against-defeat board games like Dead of Winter<\/em> or Pandemic<\/em> should steer clear of this one.) In a playtest with a completely different set of people, the group strategically dodged some early fights, accepted some hits, and came away from the game victorious. That team was pleased by the challenge and the tension of feeling like they were about to lose for most of the game. Your mileage may vary according to your tastes.<\/p>\n

The Warriors<\/em> isn\u2019t for everybody. It\u2019s an unusual experience \u2014 a game that\u2019s fairly simple to set up and learn, but that feels like every choice could be meaningful and dangerous. But in an industry where media tie-in games often barely feel connected to their source material, The Warriors <\/em>can at least boast a solid connection: It puts you right in the action of the movie, and it doesn\u2019t let up until you either make it back home or die trying. <\/p>\n

The Warriors: Come Out to Play <\/small>was reviewed with a physical copy provided by Funko Games. Vox Media has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence editorial content, though Vox Media may earn commissions for products purchased via affiliate links. You can find <\/em><\/small>additional information about Polygon\u2019s ethics policy here<\/em><\/small>.<\/em><\/small><\/p>\n

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