Strat-O-Matic Basketball Rules

Basic Game Play

• Strat-O-Matic basketball is played much like a normal game of basketball, except on a table and without real players. All the rules used in professional basketball are applicable. Even the basketball players in the game have realistic performances, which are based on their actual records. Like your typical basketball game, the outcome depends both on the skill of your players, your "coaching" skill and a little bit of luck.

  You and your opponent have to first choose your starting lineup. This consists of five players--two forwards, one center and two guards. The positions that players are allowed to play are listed on their player cards and must be followed during the game. To determine who the initial offensive team is, dice will be rolled and the instructions will tell you who wins the jump. You will have action cards, which you should shuffle and draw one by one to determine how the game pans out. It is important to follow the instructions on the cards to the letter and if you are unsure, to check the game manual. Most of all, you should have fun while playing this game!

Explanation of the "Basic Outcomes" of the Action Cards

• Each action card will have something that happens over the course of the game and will determine events that would occur in a real game of basketball--does a player pass, does a player shoot or is there a turnover, among others. Most action card outcomes will end up with one of the teams taking a shot and the success of that shot will depend on the player's statistics compared to the specifications on the action card.

  A "Replay" simulates a real situation where the offensive team's attack has broken down. In this case, there's no turnover and you should look back at the "Control" section of the previous action card which will tell you how to proceed with play. A "Steal -- Pass to Highest Rated Shooter for Shot" is, like it suggests, where the defensive team gets the ball and the stats of the defensive team's highest-rated shooter is compared to the specifications on the action card. If the player's rating is greater than the number on the action card, then the shot goes in and a point is scored.

  There are many more action cards that can be found in your Strat-O-Matic game. The best way to learn all the rules of the game is to read the handbook. It will be included with your game and will have an in-depth breakdown of how all the cards work.