Pyramid Review
Captain Park's Imaginary Polar Expedition
Published by Cheapass Games
Designed by James Ernest
4 board sections, 90 cards, and rule book; $7.50
In Cheapass Games' latest board game, Captain Park's Imaginary Polar Expedition, players are members of the London Professional Gentlemen's Club who are in on a little secret concerning the club's most popular member: Captain Park never actually went to the South Pole. Instead, he simply hid out in London, bought a few strange objects he claimed were from his journeys, then when the time was ripe, returned to the club to claim fame and glory. Rather than turn the old man in as a liar, the players have decided to do the same thing.
Like so many of James Ernest's creations, Captain Park combines simple and challenging game play with a great sense of humor, forming another inexpensive winner.
As is tradition for Cheapass Games, the components are printed in black and white on acceptably sturdy cardstock. The artwork appears to be public domain clip art; no artist is named. Players will need two pawns plus one pawn for each person, counters, and a pad of paper for scoring.
The game board represents a map of London with locations that allow players to pick up cards, play cards, and score those cards. The cards contain Photos, Facts, Anecdotes, and Heroes, all of which players use to build the tale of their false journeys. Each card also has an amusing description that slows the first few games as everyone giggles at their hands. . . .
This article originally appeared in the second volume of Pyramid. See the current Pyramid website for more information.
Article publication date: May 17, 2002
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