Throw Throw Burrito: A Comprehensive Guide
Throw Throw Burrito is a wildly chaotic dodgeball-meets-card-game, blending strategic gameplay with the exhilarating fun of throwing soft, burrito-shaped projectiles at your friends!
What is Throw Throw Burrito?
Throw Throw Burrito is an incredibly unique and energetic card game designed by Tim Eisner, the creator of the popular Unstable Unicorns. It’s not your typical tabletop experience; it actively encourages (and requires!) players to physically throw soft, burrito-shaped foam toys at each other.
The game cleverly combines the strategy of card collecting and playing with the unpredictable excitement of a dodgeball match. Players aim to collect sets of matching cards – specifically, three of a kind (Brawl, War, or Duel) – to initiate a “Burrito Battle.” But beware! Exploding Burrito cards can lead to hilarious and sudden eliminations, adding another layer of chaotic fun. It’s a game that’s guaranteed to get everyone laughing and moving, making it perfect for game nights and gatherings.
Game Overview & Core Mechanics
The core mechanic of Throw Throw Burrito revolves around building sets of matching cards – Brawl, War, or Duel – to trigger a Burrito Battle. Players take turns drawing and playing cards, strategically aiming to complete these sets while simultaneously disrupting opponents. However, the game isn’t solely about card collection; it’s about timing and reflexes!
When a set is completed, two players are chosen to engage in a quick-draw, counting-to-three, and throwing showdown. The goal is simple: avoid getting hit by the thrown “burritos.” Successfully dodging a burrito keeps you in the game, while getting hit results in being temporarily eliminated. The game continues until only one player remains, or a predetermined point total is reached, blending card strategy with physical dexterity.
Components of the Game
Throw Throw Burrito includes a vibrant collection of game elements designed for maximum chaos and fun. The game features a deck of 108 cards, comprised of Action Cards, Brawl Cards, War Cards, and Duel Cards, each serving a unique purpose in gameplay. Crucially, it contains six soft foam “burritos” – the projectiles that define the game’s signature dodgeball element.
Beyond the cards and burritos, the game box itself serves as the central play area. The box’s interior artwork depicts the scoring track and provides a visual guide for players. There are no additional tokens or boards; the game is designed to be portable and easily set up anywhere, relying on the box itself as the primary game component. It’s a self-contained package of playful mayhem!
Setting Up the Game
Setting up Throw Throw Burrito is remarkably swift, allowing for immediate engagement in the burrito-flinging action. First, unfold the game box – this becomes your central playing arena. Next, shuffle the deck of 108 cards thoroughly, ensuring a randomized distribution of Action, Brawl, War, and Duel cards.
Dealing Cards: Each player receives seven cards to form their initial hand. Ensure all players have an equal number of cards before proceeding. Player Positions: Players then position themselves around the unfolded game box, maintaining a safe distance from one another – crucial for the impending burrito battles! There are no designated player spots; players can freely arrange themselves around the box, but awareness of throwing space is key.
Dealing Cards
Dealing the cards in Throw Throw Burrito is a straightforward process, initiating the game’s dynamic flow. Begin by thoroughly shuffling the entire deck of 108 cards, ensuring a randomized distribution of all card types – Action, Brawl, War, and Duel. This randomization is vital for unpredictable gameplay and exciting battles.
Once shuffled, deal seven cards face down to each player. It’s important that each player receives exactly seven cards to maintain fairness and balance. Players should keep their hands concealed from one another, adding an element of strategic secrecy; After dealing, players can briefly examine their hands, preparing for the chaotic fun that awaits. Any remaining cards form the draw pile, placed within reach of all players.
Player Positions
Establishing player positions in Throw Throw Burrito is crucial for safe and enjoyable gameplay. Unlike traditional seated card games, this one demands space – a reasonably open area free from obstacles is essential. Players should arrange themselves in a circle, maintaining a comfortable distance from each other, ideally several feet apart.
This spacing is paramount, as the core mechanic involves throwing soft burritos! There are no designated “seats”; players remain standing throughout the game, ready to dodge and throw. Consider the surroundings – ensure there’s nothing fragile or breakable within throwing range. A clear boundary helps contain the burrito chaos. Players should be aware of their surroundings and respectful of others’ personal space during the game;
Gameplay: The Basics
Gameplay revolves around collecting cards, strategically playing them, and bracing for potential Burrito Battles initiated by specific card combinations, demanding quick reflexes!
Taking Turns
Each player’s turn begins by drawing cards until they hold a hand of seven cards, ensuring a constant flow of options and strategic possibilities. After drawing, a player must play one card from their hand, initiating an action or potentially triggering a chaotic Burrito Battle.
The core of a turn involves carefully assessing your hand, considering the cards held by opponents (though hidden!), and deciding on the most advantageous play. Players can play Action cards to disrupt opponents, protect themselves, or set up future plays. Crucially, if a player accumulates three Burrito cards – Brawl, War, or Duel – a battle is immediately initiated, shifting the focus from card play to dodging soft projectiles!
Turns proceed clockwise around the table, maintaining a dynamic and engaging pace. Strategic card management and anticipating opponent actions are key to success, but always be prepared to duck!
Playing Cards
During your turn, you must play one card from your hand, enacting its effect immediately. Cards are categorized into Action, Burrito, and other special types, each influencing the game in unique ways. Action cards allow you to manipulate the game state – stealing cards, forcing discards, or protecting yourself from incoming burritos.
However, the real excitement begins when you accumulate three Burrito cards (Brawl, War, or Duel). This instantly triggers a Burrito Battle! These cards aren’t just points; they’re a call to arms (or, rather, a call to throw!). Understanding the nuances of each card type is crucial for both offensive and defensive strategies.
Careful card selection and timing are essential, as a single well-played card can turn the tide of the game, or launch a hilarious, burrito-fueled showdown.
Action Cards Explained
Action Cards are the engine of strategic play in Throw Throw Burrito, offering a diverse range of effects to disrupt opponents and bolster your own position. These cards allow you to steal cards directly from other players’ hands, forcing them to discard valuable assets. Some cards provide temporary shields, protecting you from incoming burrito attacks during a battle.
Others might let you peek at opponents’ hands, revealing their strategies, or even swap hands entirely! Mastering these cards requires anticipating your rivals’ moves and capitalizing on opportunities. Clever use of Action Cards can create advantageous situations, setting up favorable burrito battles or preventing devastating attacks.
Remember, timing is key – a perfectly played Action Card can be the difference between victory and a face full of foam!
Burrito Cards & Battles
Burrito Cards – Brawl, War, and Duel – are the catalysts for the game’s signature chaotic fun: the Burrito Battles! Collecting a set of three Burrito Cards immediately initiates a battle with a player of your choosing. The type of Burrito Card dictates the battle style.
Brawl is a free-for-all, War involves two players, and Duel is a one-on-one showdown. When a battle begins, the involved players grab a burrito and stand back-to-back, counting to three before attempting to hit each other. Successfully hitting your opponent earns you points and bragging rights!
However, getting hit means you’re out of the battle, and your opponent scores. A set of three Burrito Cards is also worth 2 points, even without initiating a battle!
Initiating a Burrito Battle
To begin a battle, players select opponents, grab burritos, stand back-to-back, and count to three before throwing with strategic, yet cautious, force!
The Count of Three
The Count of Three is a crucial element in initiating a Burrito Battle, demanding synchronized timing and a touch of anticipation. Both duelists turn their backs to each other, creating a moment of suspense before the impending throw.
As the count begins – “One… Two… Three!” – players simultaneously step forward and release their soft burrito projectiles. The timing is key; counting too fast or slow can give your opponent an advantage.
Each count represents a step closer to the throw, building tension with each number. It’s a simple mechanic, but mastering the rhythm of the count is vital for accuracy and a fair fight. Remember, the goal is a swift, surprising, and (relatively) safe launch!
Throwing Technique & Safety
Throwing Technique & Safety are paramount when engaging in a Burrito Battle! While the burritos are soft, a well-aimed throw can still be startling. A simple overhand throw is generally recommended for control and accuracy, but feel free to experiment with underhand tosses.
Always ensure a clear throwing space, free from obstacles and bystanders. Aim for the torso – headshots are strictly prohibited and ruin the fun for everyone! Be mindful of your surroundings and the distance to other players.
Prioritize safety by maintaining a reasonable throwing force; you want to surprise, not injure. Communicate with your opponent before each battle to establish a safe zone and agree on boundaries. Remember, it’s all about playful competition!
Winning a Burrito Battle
Winning a Burrito Battle is determined by a simple, yet thrilling, contest of reflexes and dodging skills. After the count of three, both players simultaneously throw their burritos at each other. The player who successfully dodges both incoming burritos is declared the victor!
If a player is hit by one or both burritos, they unfortunately lose the battle. It’s crucial to react quickly and move your body to avoid being struck. A successful dodge requires agility and a bit of luck!
Remember, even in defeat, the game continues! Losing a battle doesn’t eliminate you from the overall game; it simply means your opponent gains an advantage. Embrace the chaos and prepare for the next showdown!
Card Types & Strategies
Throw Throw Burrito features diverse card types – Brawl, War, and Duel – each dictating battle intensity and requiring adaptable strategies for optimal gameplay success.
Brawl Cards: Aggressive Play
Brawl Cards in Throw Throw Burrito are your gateway to initiating immediate, chaotic action! When you play a Brawl Card, you immediately challenge another player to a Burrito Battle – no waiting for turns or building up tension. This is a direct, aggressive move designed to disrupt opponents and gain an early advantage.
The strategy behind Brawl Cards is simple: be unpredictable and capitalize on moments when players are least expecting an attack. Don’t hesitate to use them even if you don’t have a strong hand; the element of surprise can be incredibly effective. Remember, a successful Brawl can quickly shift the momentum in your favor, potentially leading to valuable points and hindering your rivals’ progress. It’s a bold tactic for players who thrive on immediate conflict!
War Cards: Escalating Conflict
War Cards dramatically escalate the chaos in Throw Throw Burrito, triggering a multi-player Burrito Battle! Unlike Brawl Cards which target a single opponent, a War Card forces everyone to participate in a free-for-all, creating a whirlwind of flying burritos and frantic dodging. This is a high-risk, high-reward play, perfect for disrupting a leading player or turning the tide of a close game.
The strategy with War Cards revolves around timing and positioning. Launch a War Card when players are clustered together, maximizing the potential for hits and confusion; Be prepared to defend yourself, as you’ll be a target! Successfully navigating a War Battle can earn you significant points, but failing to protect yourself could lead to a quick elimination. It’s a truly explosive move!
Duel Cards: One-on-One Showdowns
Duel Cards in Throw Throw Burrito initiate a focused, intense Burrito Battle between just two players. The card issuer chooses their opponent, creating a personal showdown separate from the main game flow. This is a strategic option for eliminating a specific threat or settling a score! Unlike the chaotic free-for-all of a War Card, a Duel demands precision and quick reflexes.
When a Duel Card is played, the chosen players back-to-back and count to three, just like a regular Burrito Battle. However, the limited scope allows for more calculated throws and defensive maneuvers. A successful hit earns points for the thrower, while the loser risks taking damage. Duels are excellent for disrupting an opponent’s strategy and gaining a competitive edge.
Advanced Rules & Variations
Advanced play introduces exploding burritos, resurrection mechanics, and customizable house rules, adding layers of complexity and replayability to Throw Throw Burrito!
Exploding Burritos & Resurrection
Exploding Burritos dramatically shift the game’s momentum! When a player is hit by a burrito while holding an Exploding Burrito card, they dramatically “explode,” discarding all their cards and being eliminated from the current round.
However, fear not! Resurrection is possible. Players can hold onto Resurrection cards, allowing them to re-enter the game after exploding, regaining a hand of cards and continuing the chaotic fun. Strategic timing is crucial – saving a Resurrection card for the perfect moment can turn the tide of battle.
These elements introduce a thrilling risk-reward dynamic, forcing players to carefully consider when to play their cards and how to protect themselves from explosive consequences. Mastering the art of explosion and resurrection is key to dominating Throw Throw Burrito!
Point Scoring System
Scoring in Throw Throw Burrito is achieved primarily through completing sets of three cards. A completed set – consisting of one Brawl, one War, and one Duel card – earns the player a valuable 2 points. This encourages strategic card collection alongside the frantic dodging and throwing.
Additionally, successfully initiating and winning a Burrito Battle contributes to your score. While the exact point value may vary based on house rules, winning battles provides a direct path to victory. Players must balance offensive card play with defensive burrito-throwing skills.
The first player to reach a predetermined number of points, typically 5 or 7, is declared the winner. Careful card management and skillful burrito battles are essential for accumulating points and claiming ultimate Throw Throw Burrito supremacy!
House Rules & Customization
Throw Throw Burrito thrives on adaptability! Feel free to tailor the experience with custom house rules. Adjust the winning point threshold – increasing it for longer games or decreasing it for quicker rounds. Modify the burrito battle rules; perhaps require a verbal call-out before throwing, or implement a “safe zone”.
Experiment with card modifications. Introduce penalties for failed throws, or grant bonus points for particularly impressive dodges. Some players even create entirely new card types to add layers of complexity. Remember, the goal is to enhance enjoyment!
Don’t be afraid to adjust the game’s intensity. For younger players, consider reducing the throwing distance or using softer burritos. Embrace creativity and personalize Throw Throw Burrito to suit your group’s preferences!