
Product test
Board game tested: "7 Wonders: Duel"
by Irene Portmann
"Shopping Queen - the board game" is based entirely on the TV programme of the same name on VOX. Is it fun? Yes, at least for the participants.
Anybody who has read the game test about "7 Wonders - Duel" knows that I (Marketing Manager Toys) was allowed to choose a game for this test because I lost the duel against Christian (Product Manager Toys) so miserably. You can read about it in detail here:
Of course, I chose a game that wouldn't immediately appeal to Christian: The board game "Shopping Queen" can be played by a maximum of five people. So I mobilised three colleagues from the toy office. (Actually, it was more like a casting show, because everyone wanted to play!) Guido on the board, four women at the table - and Christian: This is going to be torture for my rival!
After we had kitted ourselves out with Cafe de Paris in proper style, the evening could begin. Into the shopping mobile and onto the catwalk at the end. In between, there was plenty of laughter, challenges to overcome and, of course, lots of shopping. After we had judged each other's outfits, it was clear: Christian didn't win, but he actually beat me! Is there such a thing? I didn't have to win, but I wanted to be better than him!!! Now that I've vented my frustration here, I'd like to explain the game to you
The rules and the aim of the game are the same as in the TV programme: whoever has the most points at the end is crowned Shopping Queen of the Day. Fashion points are mainly awarded for outfits that are as complete as possible and through the judgement of the other players. But heading for the catwalk in good time also offers advantages.
At the beginning of the game, the motto is announced - just like in the programme. In contrast to the TV show, there are two different mottos, one of which you should fulfil. Also unlike in the programme, you can only go shopping once you have performed an action well or answered a knowledge question correctly. Of course, the tasks and questions always revolve around fashion and styling.
You can shop in one of the shops that you reach by rolling the dice. You can buy a fashion card in the shop in front of which you park your shopping mobile. After eight rounds, time is up and everyone gets ready for the catwalk. When placing your dressing figure, make sure that the fashion cards on display fulfil all the must-haves of one of the two themes on display. At the end of the game, the player with the most points is crowned Shopping Queen. Here is the direct link to the game instructions.
"First of all: The game mechanics of the board game "Shopping Queen" really surprised me and it was fun in itself. However, the game is completely unsuitable for men and will definitely not be my favourite game! It's clear from the action cards that the game was designed for women. But the women in the group were clearly having fun and, as we all know, that's infectious. So even I had to smile a few times. In any case, I'm proud of my 3rd place, but I'm going to retire from my Shopping Queen career and leave the game to those who know something about fashion."
"Simply brilliant! I love the show and was initially a bit sceptical as to whether the format could really be turned into a game. A definite "yes" to that. Unfortunately, I wasn't so lucky with the dice in the round, which is why I never got to the hairdresser's shop and therefore didn't have a hairstyle. That's why I'm really keen to play again: I'll probably manage a better look! The game also remains exciting for a long time, as there are always different mottos to follow. The action cards in particular are a lot of fun, as the tasks often require creativity and trigger emotions."
I love the strategy game “The Settlers of Catan”, the Ravensburger puzzle “Colourful Cupcakes” and the pink fluffy unicorn that sits on my desk (a birthday present from my workmates). Not only do I have a weakness for toys, I also get excited about good food and comedy TV shows.