Hasbro Gaming CONNECT4 SHOTS

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Summary

Game Setup

Initial Assembly

Instructions for initial assembly, including attaching the ramp.

Grid Construction

Steps to assemble the main game grid, backboard, and feet.

Gameplay Instructions

Starting the Game

Guide on how to start playing, including ball selection and countdown.

Playing the Game

Rules for bouncing balls and continuing play until a win or end condition is met.

Winning and Ties

How to Win

Visuals and explanation of achieving a four-in-a-row win.

Resolving Ties

Procedure for handling ties using the orange ball and determining the winner.

The Connect 4 Shots game is a dynamic and engaging twist on the classic Connect 4 game, designed for two or more players aged 8 and up. It combines the strategic element of connecting four in a row with the active, skill-based challenge of bouncing balls into a grid. Adult assembly is required for the initial setup of the game grid.

Function Description:

The primary function of Connect 4 Shots is to provide an interactive and competitive game experience where players aim to be the first to connect four of their colored balls in a row, either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, within a collapsible grid. Unlike the traditional game where discs are dropped, this version requires players to bounce balls off a surface (typically a table) and into the grid simultaneously. This adds a layer of physical skill and speed to the strategic gameplay. The game supports multiple players by allowing teams to be formed if more than two people are playing. A unique tie-breaker mechanism involving an orange ball is included to resolve situations where both players run out of balls without achieving a four-in-a-row connection.

Important Technical Specifications:

Ages: 8+
Players: 2+
Grid Size: 2 feet (when assembled)
Components:
- Collapsible grid: This is the main structure where balls are collected. It's designed for easy assembly and disassembly.
- Cardboard backboard: Provides a backdrop for the grid and helps guide balls.
- 12 yellow balls: Used by one player or team.
- 12 red balls: Used by the other player or team.
- 1 orange ball: Serves as the tie-breaker ball.
Assembly: Adult assembly is required for the initial setup of the grid. The grid consists of several interlocking parts, including a bottom section with left and right feet, a main grid structure, a backboard, a ramp, and a ball release mechanism.

Usage Features:

Setup:
1. Grid Assembly: The process begins by connecting the left and right feet to the bottom of the main grid structure.
2. Backboard Insertion: The cardboard backboard is then slid into place from the top and set aside initially.
3. Ramp Activation: A ramp component is pulled up until it clicks into place at an angle, ready to receive bounced balls.
4. Final Assembly: The backboard is then slid down into its final position, completing the grid setup.
5. Ball Release: The grid includes a ball release mechanism at the bottom, allowing for easy retrieval of balls after each game.
Gameplay:
1. Preparation: Players choose their colored balls (red or yellow), and the orange tie-breaker ball is set aside.
2. Simultaneous Play: The game starts with a "1-2-3 BOUNCE!" countdown. Both players simultaneously bounce their balls off a table surface and aim for the grid.
3. Bounce Rule: Balls must bounce on the table before entering the grid.
4. Re-bouncing: Players can pick up balls that miss the grid or bounce out and re-bounce them.
5. No Touching: Once a ball is in the grid or on the ramp, it cannot be touched by players. This includes balls that stack within the ramps when the grid is full.
6. Winning: The first player or team to connect four of their colored balls in a row (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally) wins the game.
7. Game End: Play continues simultaneously until one player achieves four-in-a-row or both players run out of balls.
Tie-breaker Feature:
- If both players run out of balls without either achieving a four-in-a-row connection, the orange tie-breaker ball is used.
- The player who bounced all of their balls into the grid first gets the first shot with the orange ball.
- Players take turns bouncing the orange ball into any open spot in the grid.
- A shot counts even if it doesn't result in a four-in-a-row, but it does not count if it lands in the ramp above the grid.
- The player who successfully lands the final shot with the orange ball, breaking the tie, wins the game.

Maintenance Features:

Collapsible Design: The grid is designed to be collapsible, making it easy to store and transport when not in use. The assembly instructions indicate that the backboard can be slid up and put aside, implying a straightforward disassembly process for storage.
Ball Release: The integrated ball release mechanism at the bottom of the grid allows for quick and easy collection of all balls after a game, simplifying cleanup and preparation for the next round.
Durability: The components are made from materials suitable for repeated bouncing and assembly/disassembly, ensuring longevity with proper handling. The cardboard backboard, while sturdy, should be handled with care during assembly and disassembly to prevent damage.