Back to the Future: Dice Through Time (2020) Review

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Back to the Future: Dice Through Time (2020)

Theme: board and themed dice game based in the Back to the Future film franchise

Team: Developers Ken Franklin, Chris Leder, Kevin Rodgers, and Ravensburger

Players: 2-4 (~2 preferred) can be played solo despite what the box states

Style: Cooperative

Balance: Appropriate

Complexity: Moderate

Time: 45-60min (usually ~60min)


Components

Y Card

Y Dice

Y Meeples 

Y Trackers

N Social/Negotiation

N Building 

N Leveling


Mechanics

N Keyword

Y Symbols

N Drafting


Pros

  • Dice-based action system allows players to plan their turns ahead of time

  • Player cards display explanations of the dice facings, acting as a rules reference

  • Excellent theming within all three Back to the Future films, with accompanying props that build intrigue

  • Various built-in difficulties make the game customizable


Cons

  • Event randomization may result in an uphill, sometimes seemingly impossible, battle

  • Delorean figurines are identical regardless of the Doc and Marty selected (a very minor gripe)


Closing Notes

As an avid fanatic of Back to the Future I was skeptical that this board game could bring the appropriate styling of the film series into a dice-rolling format. Having each player as Doc and Marty strategically move through iconic areas in different time zones allows a unique story to be told with each new play. I would highly recommend Dice Through Time to those that enjoy the Back to the Future films, as well as groups that engage in cooperative play. Thanks for reading.


Do you feel this review helped in any way? Feel free to visit my Curator Page at Spearpoint Reviews on Steam.

Originally posted on October 5, 2022.

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