Board Game Arena - User contributions [en]

https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/api.php?action=feedcontributions&feedformat=atom&user=IndianaScones Board Game Arena - User contributions [en] 2026-10-02T06:14:30Z User contributions MediaWiki 1.39.0 https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30790 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-22T22:10:02Z

<p>IndianaScones: added section in appendix about discarding cards</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Checkmark : No consequence</li><br /> <li>-2 cards : Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>-1 card, -1 psych : Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Discarding cards ====<br /> <br /> When a Climbing card or Risk Die result forces you to discard card/s or give them to another player, they must come from your hand. If there aren't enough cards or cards of the required type in your hand, you may discard/give them from your Asset Board after first discarding as many as you can from your hand.<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30789 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-22T22:02:13Z

<p>IndianaScones: Removed images since some of them were not working directly in BGA</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Checkmark : No consequence</li><br /> <li>-2 cards : Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>-1 card, -1 psych : Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30603 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-08T03:31:15Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> TEST IMAGE FIX 3<br /> <br /> [[File:FA_forest_mountain.png|582px|Mountain from Forest board]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=File:FA_forest_mountain.png&diff=30602 File:FA forest mountain.png 2026-07-08T03:28:54Z

<p>IndianaScones: Mountain from Forest board</p> <hr /> <div>== Summary ==<br /> Mountain from Forest board</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30596 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-07T18:19:53Z

<p>IndianaScones: /* The Mountain Layout */</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> TEST IMAGE FIX v2<br /> <br /> [[File:Image12.png|582px|Mountain Forest board]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30595 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-07T17:11:50Z

<p>IndianaScones: /* The Headwall */</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> TEST IMAGE FIX<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain forest board.png|582px|link=https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/File:Mountain_forest_board.png|alt=Mountain Forest board|Mountain Forest board]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30594 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-07T17:10:43Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain forest board.png|582px|link=https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/File:Mountain_forest_board.png|alt=Mountain Forest board|Mountain Forest board]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30579 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T21:04:41Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|link={{filepath:Mountain_forest_board.png}}|582px]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30578 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T21:03:25Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> TESTING FOR IN-GAME WIKI<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|link={{filepath:Mountain_forest_board.png}}|582px]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30577 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T20:55:36Z

<p>IndianaScones: /* The Mountain Layout */</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> TESTING FOR IN-GAME WIKI<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|link={{filepath:Mountain_forest_board.png}}|582px]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30576 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T20:55:08Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> TESTING FOR IN-GAME WIKI<br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|link={{filepath:Mountain_forest_board.png}}|582px]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30575 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T20:54:37Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|link={{filepath:Mountain_forest_board.png}}|582px]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30574 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T20:53:01Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> <html><img src="https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/images/1/12/Mountain_forest_board.png" alt="Mountain (Forest board)" width="582" /></html><br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30573 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T20:52:32Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/images/1/12/Mountain_forest_board.png<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30572 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T20:49:44Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> <img src="https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/images/1/12/Mountain_forest_board.png" alt="Mountain (Forest board)" width="582" /><br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30571 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T20:49:10Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> <img src="https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/images/1/12/Mountain_forest_board.png" alt="Mountain (Forest board)" width="582"/><br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30570 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T20:02:57Z

<p>IndianaScones: Undo revision 30565 by IndianaScones (talk)</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|582x450px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30569 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T20:02:47Z

<p>IndianaScones: Undo revision 30566 by IndianaScones (talk)</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route. This portion is a test.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|582x450px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30568 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T20:02:18Z

<p>IndianaScones: Undo revision 30567 by IndianaScones (talk)</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== '''The Apron''' ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|582x450px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30567 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T19:58:40Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|500x387px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30566 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T19:56:20Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== '''The Apron''' ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|582x450px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30565 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-07-06T19:52:59Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route. This portion is a test.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|582x450px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30305 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-21T03:21:26Z

<p>IndianaScones: /* Character Selection */ bigger pics</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|582x450px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|594x165px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|594x165px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30304 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-21T03:19:49Z

<p>IndianaScones: /* The Headwall */ bigger pic</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|582x450px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30303 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-21T03:18:10Z

<p>IndianaScones: /* Climbing Card */ rerach to rerack</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30302 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-21T03:16:54Z

<p>IndianaScones: v1.0</p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing Card ======<br /> <br /> Draw a climbing card and choose how to resolve it. Most cards give you a choice between two outcomes, though some allow you to choose a skill token to add to a pitch to increase its difficulty (its value remains unchanged).<br /> <br /> If you cannot completely resolve a climbing card choice, you may not choose it. If you cannot resolve either choice, you discard the card and will only draw 1 card in the Rerach Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br><small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ====== Personal Objectives ======<br /> <br /> You're dealt 2 Personal Objective cards when you select your character. Each Personal Objective shows a symbol. Every pitch bearing that symbol in the lower left corner will count towards that Personal Objective. Its value is shown in the lower right corner.<br /> <br /> At the end of the game, you will choose 1 completed Personal Objective (if you've completed any) to score.<br /> <br /> == Appendix ==<br /> <br /> ==== Summit Beta Tokens ====<br /> <br /> Single use tokens gained from Climbing cards with various positive effects.<br><small>Note: If a card option says something like "Gain 1 Face Skill Card, lose 1 Psych" and you use the Jesus Piece token, you would gain the card but not lose the Psych.</small><br /> <br /> ==== The Portaledge ====<br /> <br /> The Portaledge acts as a "bank" of each card type. You draw from it in the following circumstances:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>A Climbing card directs you to</li><br /> <li>You trade in 3 cards of the same type from your hand</li><br /> <li>You rested and are gaining assets in the Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> Each Portaledge type deck is populated with 7 cards of that type. If it ever runs out, it will be populated with 7 more from the discard pile (and Asset Deck if need be).<br /> <br /> <i><s>Terrifying</s> Fun fact</i>: A Portaledge is what climbers sleep on when on the side of a cliff during a big-wall ascent if there are no natural features or ledges to sleep on.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30301 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-21T02:35:15Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====<br /> <br /> You may climb a pitch that was previously climbed by another player, but doing so scales down both the difficulty and the payoff.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>1st Climber: Pay full asset costs and earn full points.</li><br /> <li>2nd Climber: Pay 1 fewer asset of your choice and earn 1 fewer point.</li><br /> <li>3rd+ Climbers: Pay 2 fewer assets of your choice and earn 2 fewer points.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Game End & Scoring ==<br /> <br /> When a player climbs their 8th pitch, the current round will be the last. Tally points after the Follow Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Final Score Tally ====<br /> <br /> Points are gained from the following categories:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>'''Pitches Climbed''': The value of all pitches containing your ropes (accounting for reduced points from previously climbed pitches)</li><br /> <li>'''Technique Bonuses''': Points from 2-Point tokens.</li><br /> <li>'''Shared Objectives''': Points from your chosen completed Personal Objective card.</li><br /> <li>'''Summit Bonus''': 1 Point if your climber has reached a summit.</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The player with the highest point total has established the best First Ascent and wins the game! If there is a tie, victory goes to the player with the most Permanent Asset tokens. If there is still a tie, winners share the glory.<br /> <br /> ====== Shared Objectives ======<br /> <br /> Shared Objectives, shown at the top of the board, may be achieved by multiple players.<br /> <br /> '''Shared Objectives Explained''':<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''Climb 3 of A Specific Type''': Climb 3 pitches of the type specified.</li><br /> <li>'''1 point for each shaded/sunny pitch''': A pitch's background shows whether it's sunny or shaded.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb the North/Sound Ridge''': Climb at least 4 pitches along either ridge. The Summits count.</li><br /> <li>'''Gain 1 point for each pitch on the Headwall''': Every pitch above the Ledge is worth an extra point.</li><br /> <li>'''Climb no 1 point pitches''': Climb no 1 star pitches. Previously climbed 2+ star pitches that are worth 1 point don't count as a 1 star pitch.</li><br /> <li>'''Earn Permanent Asset tokens''': Have the specified Permanent Asset tokens at the end of the game.<br /> <br /> <small>Note: When you climb The Trifecta, you choose whether it counts as sunny or shaded and the type.</small></li><br /> </ul></div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30255 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-13T12:26:08Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> A player's first climbed pitch must be along the bottom row of the mountain. After that you may climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches). You may climb from any pitch along the ledge to any other pitch along the ledge as if they were adjacent.<br /> <br /> '''The Headwall''', or top portion of the mountain, begins the game with its pitches face-down. At the end of any Climb Phase where one or more players has climbed a pitch along The Ledge, the Headwall pitches are revealed.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Up Ascents ====</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30254 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-13T12:02:31Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==<br /> <br /> ==== Movement Rules ====<br /> <br /> You may normally climb any adjacent pitch as long as there is no other climber currently on that pitch and you haven't already climbed it. The '''summits''' (topmost pitches) are exceptions in that any number of climbers can be there at the same time.<br /> <br /> '''The Ledge''' spans across the middle of the mountain (the rows above and below the break in pitches).</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30247 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-13T01:39:32Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>'''If you climbed in the Climb Phase''' draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>'''If you rested instead''', choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>'''If you were forced to retreat''', you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> There is no hand limit. After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.<br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30246 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-13T01:37:07Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======<br /> <br /> You may trade in 4 cards of the same type to gain a Permanent Asset token of that type. This can be repeated for as many such groups as you have, however each character has a finite number of Permanent Asset slots. Once they are filled, no more Permanent Assset tokens may be gained.<br /> <br /> ====== Flip over Assets ======<br /> <br /> Asset cards played this turn onto players' Asset Boards are flipped face-down. This happens because only the current turn's cards may contribute to 3 matching Technique icons. Once a card is turned face-down, its technique symbol is hidden.<br /> <br /> ==== Rerack Phase ====<br /> <br /> Players "rerack" (a climbing term for when climbers take time to reorganize their gear to prepare for the next section of a climb, switch who is leading, or inventory gear after removing it from the rock) in turn order to gain assets for subsequent rounds.<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>If you climbed in the Climb Phase draw 3 cards total from The Spread and/or Asset Deck. There is no hand limit. If you rested instead, choose a combination of five assets. These are a card of any type from the Portaledge, a Water, or a Psych.</li><br /> <li>If you were forced to retreat, you draw 1 card from The Spread or Asset Deck.</li><br /> <li>After all players have Reracked, the First Player marker automatically passes to the right (counterclockwise). Then the next Climb Phase begins.</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> == Movement & Mountain Mechanics ==</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30240 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-12T02:36:01Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point Token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques Tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta Token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30239 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-12T02:29:42Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======<br /> <br /> There are four techniques:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Balance</li><br /> <li>Precision</li><br /> <li>Pain Tolerance</li><br /> <li>Power</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> For every 3 matching icons you can produce, you'll gain a 2-Point Token. These icons can come face-up cards on your Asset Board, Techniques Tokens in your hand, and the Summit Beta Token "New Rubber". Any tokens used are discarded.<br /> <br /> ====== Permanent Assets ======</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30238 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-12T02:21:16Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during your turn in the Climb Phase, you may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from your hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If you're missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, you may opt to "Risk It". This allows you to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first you must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> <br /> If you're able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''you must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and you will only draw 1 card during the next Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Resting ======<br /> <br /> Instead of climbing a pitch, you may Rest. Resting skips your turn in the Climb and Follow Phases but allows you to gain more assets in the Rerack Phase.<br /> <br /> ==== Follow Phase ====<br /> <br /> Take the following steps:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Award Technique bonuses</li><br /> <li>Gain Permanent Assets</li><br /> <li>Flip over Assets</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> ====== Technique bonuses ======</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30237 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-11T22:24:30Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during their turn in the Climb Phase, a player may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from their hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If a player is missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, they may opt to "Risk It". This allows the player to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first they must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li><br /> <br /> If the player is able to resolve the rolled die face, the climb succeeds. If not, '''they must retreat'''. No resources are spent, the pitch isn't climbed, and the</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30236 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-11T21:33:32Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during their turn in the Climb Phase, a player may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from their hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If a player is missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, they may opt to "Risk It". This allows the player to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first they must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_checkmark.png|30x30px|Risk Die checkmark]] - No consequence</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_two_cards.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus two cards]] - Give 2 cards to another player</li><br /> <li>[[File:Risk_card_psych.png|30x30px|Risk Die minus one card and one psych]] - Lose 1 psych. Give 1 card to another player and they gain 1 psych</li></div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=File:Risk_card_psych.png&diff=30235 File:Risk card psych.png 2026-06-11T21:31:59Z

<p>IndianaScones: Risk Die minus one card and one psych</p> <hr /> <div>== Summary ==<br /> Risk Die minus one card and one psych</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=File:Risk_two_cards.png&diff=30234 File:Risk two cards.png 2026-06-11T21:30:51Z

<p>IndianaScones: Risk Die minus two cards</p> <hr /> <div>== Summary ==<br /> Risk Die minus two cards</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=File:Risk_checkmark.png&diff=30233 File:Risk checkmark.png 2026-06-11T21:27:43Z

<p>IndianaScones: Risk Die checkmark</p> <hr /> <div>== Summary ==<br /> Risk Die checkmark</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30230 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-11T15:34:48Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.<br /> <br /> ====== Trade ======<br /> <br /> At any point during their turn in the Climb Phase, a player may discard '''3 cards of the same type''' from their hand to take 1 card from the Portaledge.<br /> <br /> ====== Risk It ======<br /> <br /> If a player is missing exactly 1 asset required by a pitch, they may opt to "Risk It". This allows the player to climb the pitch without the 1 missing requirement, but first they must roll the Risk Die. Rolling the Risk Die has 3 possible outcomes:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li></div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30229 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-11T15:26:24Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]<br /> <br /> ==== The Climb Phase ====<br /> <br /> In turn order, each player will either climb or rest.<br /> <br /> ====== Climbing ======<br /> <br /> Select an available pitch as per Movement & Mountain Mechanics. If you have the necessary resources, confirm the pitch and select them. There are three types of resources for climbing a pitch:<br /> <br /> <ul><br /> <li>Asset cards</li><br /> <li>Permanent Asset tokens (found on your Asset Board)</li><br /> <li>Certain Summit Beta tokens</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> In addition, several characters have active climbing abilities that may be performed to meet a pitch's requirements.<br /> <br /> When climbing a pitch, any Asset cards spent are moved to your Asset Board, water and psych are adjusted on your Character Board, and any played Summit Beta tokens are discarded.<br /> <br /> Next, your Climber moves to the pitch and one of your ropes is placed on it. Your ropes will track your path up the mountain.<br /> <br /> After that, draw and resolve a Climbing Card.</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30225 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-11T13:14:14Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron - ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge - ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall - ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30224 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-11T13:12:38Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== '''The Apron''' ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== '''The Ledge''' ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== '''The Headwall''' ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30216 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-11T01:44:07Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]<br /> <br /> ====== Rack up! ======<br /> <br /> In turn order, players draw a number of cards from The Spread and/or Asset Deck based on their starting position:<br /> <br /> {| cellpadding="20"<br /> | <br /> * 1st player: 5<br /> * 2nd player: 5<br /> * 3rd player: 6<br /> * 4th player: 7<br /> * 5th player: 8<br /> | align="center" valign="middle" | [[File:Deck_and_Spread.png|166x289px|center|Deck and Spread]]<br /> |}<br /> <br /> Example:<br /> <br /> [[File:Card_draw_example.png|557x250px|Card draw example]]</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=File:Card_draw_example.png&diff=30215 File:Card draw example.png 2026-06-11T01:36:31Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Summary ==<br /> Card draw example</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=File:Card_draw_example.png&diff=30214 File:Card draw example.png 2026-06-11T01:35:49Z

<p>IndianaScones: IndianaScones uploaded a new version of File:Card draw example.png</p> <hr /> <div>{{speedydelete|reason=Better version added}}<br /> <br /> == Summary ==<br /> Card draw example</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=File:Card_draw_example.png&diff=30213 File:Card draw example.png 2026-06-11T01:30:25Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>{{speedydelete|reason=Better version added}}<br /> <br /> == Summary ==<br /> Card draw example</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=File:Card_draw_example.png&diff=30212 File:Card draw example.png 2026-06-11T01:22:41Z

<p>IndianaScones: Card draw example</p> <hr /> <div>== Summary ==<br /> Card draw example</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=File:Deck_and_Spread.png&diff=30211 File:Deck and Spread.png 2026-06-11T01:10:31Z

<p>IndianaScones: Deck and Spread</p> <hr /> <div>== Summary ==<br /> Deck and Spread</div>

IndianaScones https://en.doc.boardgamearena.com/index.php?title=Gamehelpfirstascent&diff=30210 Gamehelpfirstascent 2026-06-11T01:05:24Z

<p>IndianaScones: </p> <hr /> <div>== Goal & Game Overview ==<br /> <br /> ==== Goal ====<br /> <br /> Establish the best route up the mountain to gain the most points. Points are gained in 4 ways:<br /> <br /> <ul class="bulletlist" style="margin:1em 0;padding-inline-start:40px;"><br /> <li>Climbing pitches</li><br /> <li>Completing objectives</li><br /> <li>Matching technique symbols</li><br /> <li>Reaching a summit</li><br /> </ul><br /> <br /> ==== Rules Summary ====<br /> <br /> These are a concise set of rules tailored for gameplay on Board Game Arena. The full rules can be found in the [https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f3aa7c5fe5a24697b2a69ea/t/62ce19448354835d9ac0107c/1657674056423/FA+guidebook+smaller+071222.pdf First Ascent Rulebook]. The "?" icon in the bottom left of the screen opens the Reference Cards with helpful reminders about gameplay.<br /> <br /> == The Mountain Layout ==<br /> <br /> ==== Overview ====<br /> <br /> The mountain is made up of individual hex tiles called Pitches. Players climb these pitches to establish their route.<br /> <br /> ====== The Apron ======<br /> <br /> The lower half of the mountain, visible to all players at the start of the game.<br /> <br /> ====== The Ledge ======<br /> <br /> Runs horizontally across the middle of the mountain between rows 3-4.<br /> <br /> ====== The Headwall ======<br /> <br /> The upper half of the mountain. This region starts face-down and is revealed when any player ends The Climb Phase positioned on a pitch in the 3rd row.<br /> <br /> [[File:Mountain_forest_board.png|517x400px|Mountain (Forest board)]]<br /> <br /> ==== Pitch Requirements and Assets ====<br /> <br /> Each Pitch requires a certain combination of Assets from a player in order to climb it. There are six types of assets:<br /> <br /> <ol><br /> <li>Gear</li><br /> <li>Water</li><br /> <li>Psych</li><br /> <li>Face climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Crack climbing skills</li><br /> <li>Slab climbing skills</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> [[File:Asset_types.png|260x75px|Asset types]]<br /> <br /> The required Assets are indicated by the icons on each Pitch. The Wildcard Skill symbol [[File:Wildcard_Skill_symbol.png|45x48px|Wildcard Skill symbol]] can be fulfilled by any of the 3 Skill types (Slab, Crack, or Face).<br /> <br /> [[File:Pitch_example.png|Pitch example]]<br /> <br /> This is an example of a pitch that requires 1 Gear, 2 Face Skills, 1 Crack Skill, and 1 Water.<br /> <br /> ====== The Trifecta - a special pitch ======<br /> <br /> Some Shared Objectives are determined by the type of a Pitch (Arete, Slab, Roof, Crack, Flake, or Corner) or its exposure (sunny or shaded). When a player climbs The Trifecta, they must choose the type and exposure of the route climbed there. The Trifecta does not count towards any Personal Objectives.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_Selection_Box.png|170x235px|Trifecta Selection Box]]<br /> <br /> It may be defined as a different exposure and type for each player that climbs it. Once climbed, a drop down button becomes available to show which Exposure and Type were defined for each player that climbed The Trifecta.<br /> <br /> [[File:Trifecta_types_box.png|174x180px|Trifecta Types Box]]<br /> <br /> == Gameplay overview ==<br /> <br /> The game is played over a series of rounds. Each round consists of '''3 distinct phases''':<br /> <ol><br /> <li>Climb Phase</li><br /> <li>Follow Phase</li><br /> <li>Rerack Phase</li><br /> </ol><br /> <br /> The end of the game is triggered when a player climbs their eighth pitch and lays their final rope down on the board. When this happens, the Climbing and Follow phases are completed and final scores are tallied.<br /> <br /> ==== Setup ====<br /> The game begins with character selection and the Rack Up Phase.<br /> <br /> ====== Character Selection ======<br /> First a random assortment of characters is chosen equaling the number of players plus one. Then in reverse turn order, players select their characters. The unchosen character is then discarded.<br /> <br /> Selecting a character will reveal their Asset Board. Upon confirming their character, a player will be dealt two random personal objective cards.<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_selection.png|450x125px|Character selection]]<br /> <br /> [[File:Character_with_Asset_Board.png|450x125px|Character with Asset Board]]</div>

IndianaScones