Indiana Jones: Sands of Adventure turns Raiders into a party game

There’s a moment in every Indiana Jones movie where a fight breaks out and things rapidly spiral out of control. Perhaps a man with a large sword stands in the way of finding Indy’s companion. A clean escape in a minecart could turn into a dangerous chase. A dogfight between a Messerschmitt and a biplane can turn into a crash-landing when the tail is accidentally shot out. Whatever the odds, Indy and the gang always find a way to win the day — usually through teamwork and improvisation.

It’s precisely those action-packed moments that Funko Games’ Indiana Jones Sands of AdventureThe board game attempts to recreate the experience. And while I usually steer clear of products that make use of a sand timer, in this case it’s absolutely critical to the pace and tension of the game.

The following are some of the ways to get in touch with us Sands of AdventureTwo to four players take turns playing characters Raiders of the Lost Ark — Indiana Jones, Marion Ravenwood, Sallah el-Kahir, and Marcus Brody. The core experience is a classic card matching game. UnoTo play, the players must match symbols on colored cards such as hats and spades instead of numbers. You win if your team can play enough cards to attack before the clock runs out. But, just as with Indiana Jones’ most chaotic action sequences, there are a lot of complications with which players must contend.

Photo: James Paul Correia Photography/Funko Games

First of all, the board is created randomly using seven double-sided tiled, with each having a different effect. That means you can’t rely on the same strategy each game, or even every round. The second reason is that the enemies become stronger in every stage. Col. Dietrich for example is nothing compared with Maj. Toht. Later, rival explorer René Belloq packs quite a punch.

Photo: James Paul Correia Photography/Funko Games

Finally, there’s that big ol’ sand timer looming over it all. Players will have to place a plastic jewel in a bucket on the top of the sand timer at various times during the game. The extra weight of the gem will cause the timer eventually to topple over. It resets the timer, and immediately triggers the final fight phase. What was simply a casual little strategy card game suddenly transforms into a full-on scream-a-thon as everyone at the table stands to attention and begins calling out advice and throwing punches — in the form of cards — left and right before the timer runs out. It’s a blast, and it makes the game appealing for the entire family.

As with almost all of Funko’s board games, the production quality here is excellent — especially for a $29.99 mass-market product. The miniatures are large and full of character, and the art isn’t just a stack of recycled stills from the movie. Every image feels lovingly crafted, from Marion’s rakish grin to Marcus’ flamboyant jab with a fountain pen. My only complaint is that a few of the minis that came with Polygon’s set are a bit warped, but it’s nothing a little hot water and careful reposing can’t fix.

Find out more about Indiana Jones Sands of AdventureTarget stores, online and in-stores only.

Indiana Jones Sands of AdventureThe review was conducted using a copy of the pre-release version provided by Funko Games. Vox Media maintains affiliate relationships. Vox Media can earn affiliate commissions, but this does not affect editorial content. Find out more about affiliate links. additional information about Polygon’s ethics policy here.