'League of Legends' has become one of the most popular games in the world of e-sports competition, and such popularity has led to several offshoots -- Mechs vs. Minions included. Rather than a video game, Mechs vs. Minions is a cooperative tabletop board game that uses the same characters, campaign system, and gameplay mechanics used in the larger digital franchise.
Mechs vs. Minions campaigns can be adjusted for between two an four players. In the universe of the game, the players enter a school to train with "mechs," which are powerful, programmable fighting robot suits. The "minions" in the game are originally meant to be harmless dummies, but things quickly get out of hand.
The gameplay itself is based on programmable command lines, or series of actions that players can unleash in defined orders -- just like in League of Legends.
Video Game-Inspired Board Games
'Mechs vs. Minions' is Based on 'League of Legends'
Trend Themes
1. Cooperative Tabletop Board Games - The trend of cooperative tabletop board games like Mechs vs. Minions extends the immersive experience of popular video games into a physical, social setting.
2. Video Game Franchise Expansions - The trend of video game franchise expansions into tabletop board games offers fans a new way to engage with their favorite digital worlds outside of the screen.
3. Programmable Gameplay Mechanics - The trend of using programmable command lines in board games, as seen in Mechs vs. Minions, introduces a unique and strategic element to gameplay.
Industry Implications
1. E-sports - The e-sports industry can capitalize on the popularity of video game-inspired board games to create new merchandise and engage with fans in different formats.
2. Board Game Manufacturing - The board game manufacturing industry can adapt their production capabilities to cater to the growing demand for video game-inspired board games.
3. Video Game Development - The video game development industry can explore opportunities to create licensed tabletop board game versions of their popular video game franchises, expanding their reach and revenue streams.