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  11. <title>play board games</title>
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  13. <link>https://www.play-board-games.com</link>
  14. <description>Board game reviews, strategy tips &#38; session reports</description>
  15. <lastBuildDate>Fri, 19 Apr 2024 18:20:32 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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  22. <item>
  23. <title>Lost Ruins of Arnak The Missing Expedition Expansion Review</title>
  24. <link>https://www.play-board-games.com/lost-ruins-of-arnak-the-missing-expedition-expansion-review/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=lost-ruins-of-arnak-the-missing-expedition-expansion-review</link>
  25. <comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/lost-ruins-of-arnak-the-missing-expedition-expansion-review/#respond</comments>
  27. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
  28. <pubDate>Fri, 19 Apr 2024 18:20:32 +0000</pubDate>
  29. <category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
  30. <category><![CDATA[solo play]]></category>
  31. <category><![CDATA[two players]]></category>
  32. <category><![CDATA[three or more players]]></category>
  33. <category><![CDATA[Cooperative game]]></category>
  34. <category><![CDATA[expansion]]></category>
  35. <category><![CDATA[Co-operative game]]></category>
  36. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7718</guid>
  37.  
  38. <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/arnak-missing-expedition-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Lost Ruins of Arnak: The Missing Expedition expansion" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" />The Missing Expedition is the second expansion for the Lost Ruins of Arnak board game. It adds two new leaders, two new research tracks, and new artifacts, items, and assistants. Plus you now have the option for a solo/cooperative campaign mode.]]></description>
  39. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/arnak-missing-expedition-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Lost Ruins of Arnak: The Missing Expedition expansion" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" /><p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/arnak-missing-expedition.jpg" alt="Lost Ruins of Arnak: The Missing Expedition expansion" width="209" height="300" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7720" /><strong>Stats:</strong><br />
  40. No. of players: 1-4<br />
  41. Amount of time to play: 30-120 min<br />
  42. Age requirements: 12+<br />
  43. Set-up time: 5-10 min</p>
  44. <p>The Missing Expedition is the second expansion for the Lost Ruins of Arnak board game. It adds two new leaders, two new research tracks, and new artifacts, items, and assistants. Plus you now have the option for a solo/cooperative campaign mode.<br />
  45. <span id="more-7718"></span></p>
  46. <h2>Lost Ruins of Arnak The Missing Expedition Expansion Rules Description:</h2>
  47. <p>Lost Ruins of Arnak combines worker placement and deck building to create a fun, thematic, medium-weight, boardgaming experience. <a href="https://www.play-board-games.com/lost-ruins-of-arnak-board-game-review/" title="Lost Ruins of Arnak Board Game Review" rel="noopener" target="_blank">You can read my full review of it here.</a> This post is going to focus on the elements introduced in The Missing Expedition expansion.</p>
  48. <p>The first expansion, <a href="https://www.play-board-games.com/lost-ruins-of-arnak-expedition-leaders-expansion-review/" title="Lost Ruins of Arnak Expedition Leaders Expansion Review" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Expedition Leaders</a>, introduced leaders that added asymmetrical starting decks and player specific boards and powers. The Missing Expedition expansion adds two additional leaders, the Journalist and Mechanic.  </p>
  49. <p>The Journalist is able to move his notebook one level higher than his magnifying glass on the research track. When traveling to sites, he can write articles, by paying an extra travel icon. Those articles are added to his newspaper board and earn him bonus resources.</p>
  50. <p>While the Mechanic has a machine that shows different resources or game actions. It can be rotated and she gains those bonuses after the rotation. She adds tiles to the machine as the game goes on and also gains an assistant, Rusty. Rusty is a monkey that will help rotate the machine and help her gain its benefits more often.</p>
  51. <p>Other elements include more items, artifacts, and locations. The new locations tie into the campaign encounter cards. They give you a choice in rewards. One that you gain instantly and another that is gained at a later time. There are two new research tracks: the waterfall and the tree temple. The waterfall contains hidden locations that you activate when you view them with your magnifying glass and a secret passage that moves you higher up the track but costs an unused idol. The tree temple has two spots that allow you to spend an unused idol for a bonus.</p>
  52. <p>Also included are the elements for the campaign. It takes place over six games and may be played solitaire or with two players. Unlike the base game’s solo mode, winning campaign scenarios requires more than scoring a lot of points. Each scenario has a goal you need to accomplish to win. There are also achievements you may earn the previously mentioned encounter cards.</p>
  53. <h2>Quick Review of Lost Ruins of Arnak The Missing Expedition Expansion:</h2>
  54. <p>The Missing Expedition adds more content to Lost Ruins of Arnak. The new leaders and campaign mode especially stand out. I am happy when a competitive board game has the option for cooperative play, (when done well) and this expansion does that.</p>
  55. <p>The components for this game are in line with the rest from the series. Everything looks good and is well made. The rules are easy to follow and provide useful examples. The campaign mode’s components are organized to help expedite set up which is nice.</p>
  56. <p>Like I said above the new leaders and campaign mode make this expansion. The new leaders give players more options and add to the asymmetry introduced in The Leaders expansion. These new leaders are unique and fun to play though I must admit I enjoy the mechanic more than the journalist. Who doesn’t like having an animal companion? </p>
  57. <p>Not only does the campaign mode give you an opportunity to play alone or together with one other player, its objectives will require you to adjust how you play. This wrinkle creates new experiences and problem-solving. It isn’t just Lost Ruins of Arnak for two.  </p>
  58. <p>Should you buy the Missing Expedition expansion? That depends. I’d buy The Leaders expansion first, unless I was only interested in the solo/cooperative gameplay. If you already own The Leaders Expansion and are looking for more, buy this. If you are not a fan of Lost Ruins of Arnak, this expansion will not change your mind.</p>
  59. <p><strong>Score and synopsis:</strong> (<a href="../../review-categories/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here for an explanation of these review categories.</a>)<br />
  60. Strategy 4 out of 6<br />
  61. Luck 4 out of 6<br />
  62. Player Interaction 5 of 6 (NA if playing solo or cooperative)<br />
  63. Replay Value 5 out of 6<br />
  64. Complexity 5 out of 6<br />
  65. Fun 5 out of 6<br />
  66. <strong>Overall 5 out of 6</strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
  68. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.play-board-games.com/lost-ruins-of-arnak-the-missing-expedition-expansion-review/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  69. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  72. </item>
  73. <item>
  74. <title>Dominion Digital Edition Review</title>
  75. <link>https://www.play-board-games.com/dominion-digital-edition-review/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=dominion-digital-edition-review</link>
  76. <comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/dominion-digital-edition-review/#respond</comments>
  78. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
  79. <pubDate>Tue, 20 Feb 2024 12:28:41 +0000</pubDate>
  80. <category><![CDATA[solo play]]></category>
  81. <category><![CDATA[Digital Board Game Review]]></category>
  82. <category><![CDATA[1 to 6 players]]></category>
  83. <category><![CDATA[deck-building game]]></category>
  84. <category><![CDATA[Dominion]]></category>
  85. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7695</guid>
  86.  
  87. <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/dominion-digital-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />Dominion is the og deckbuilding game. It was a game that introduced a new mechanic to the hobby. The digital version takes this classic card game and makes it easy to play and experiment with different sets. Also if you don’t have a human to play against, the AI opponents are pretty good.]]></description>
  88. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/dominion-digital-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/dominion-digital.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="197" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7699" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/dominion-digital.jpg 350w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/dominion-digital-300x169.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" />Dominion is the og deckbuilding game. It was a game that introduced a new mechanic to the hobby. The digital version takes this classic card game and makes it easy to play and experiment with different sets. Also if you don’t have a human to play against, the AI opponents are pretty good.<br />
  89. <span id="more-7695"></span></p>
  90. <h2>Dominion Digital Edition Description:</h2>
  91. <p><a href="https://www.play-board-games.com/dominion-game-review/" title="Dominion Game Review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">I first reviewed Dominion when I started this blog.</a> It was one of the games that really drew me into the hobby. And though the deckbuilding mechanic is not too revolutionary at this time, back then it was pretty radical.</p>
  92. <p>Since its initial release in 2008 there has been a second edition. The second edition doesn’t change the rules. It changes some of the cards by moving them to different expansions or getting rid of them altogether and replacing them with new ones. <a href="https://wiki.dominionstrategy.com/index.php/Second_Edition" rel="noopener" target="_blank">This wiki page outlines the changes for those (like myself) that only own and played the first edition.</a></p>
  93. <p>The digital edition has a great tutorial to walk you through the basic rules of the game. Each expansion also includes a tutorial that covers new concepts introduced in that expansion. Fifteen expansions are available to purchase as DLC and add a bunch of cards and variety to the game.</p>
  94. <h2>Quick Review of Dominion Digital Edition:</h2>
  95. <p>I have really enjoyed the digital edition of Dominion. You can play a game quickly with others on the couch or online. It was fun to see the changes made for the second edition and try out cards and concepts from expansions I had never played.</p>
  96. <p>The AI has four difficulty levels and is challenging on the hard setting. The AI is quick making games go fast with little downtime. You can even start some turns as you wait for your opponent to wrap up theirs. </p>
  97. <p>This app has an intuitive interface and getting the info you need about cards is easy. The tutorials were great and helped me learn all the concepts I had never played with before. If you are getting a new expansion definitely use the tutorial to understand its impact.</p>
  98. <p>My favorite mode is the Daily challenge. It has been excellent. You play vs one AI opponent with a predetermined set of cards. You can keep trying even if you lose and get a streak going if you win over and over again. This mode has introduced me to many of the cards I have not tried before. And though I usually do not win the first time, I retry until I get the W. </p>
  99. <p>If you like playing Dominion this is a must buy. You might not need or want all the expansions but getting a few you like can add extra variety to the game. If you do not like Dominion, this app will not make you like it. But if you want a fun game you can play quickly with friends or decent AI opponents, pick this up. Dominion Digital Edition is available on <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/1131620/Dominion/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Steam</a>, <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dominion/id1476461085" rel="noopener" target="_blank">iOS</a> and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.templegatesgames.DominionAndroid&#038;hl=en_US&#038;gl=US" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Android</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  101. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.play-board-games.com/dominion-digital-edition-review/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  102. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  105. </item>
  106. <item>
  107. <title>Pathfinder Revolution Board Game Review</title>
  108. <link>https://www.play-board-games.com/pathfinder-revolution-board-game-review/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=pathfinder-revolution-board-game-review</link>
  109. <comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/pathfinder-revolution-board-game-review/#respond</comments>
  111. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
  112. <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jan 2024 05:02:38 +0000</pubDate>
  113. <category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
  114. <category><![CDATA[3 to 6 players]]></category>
  115. <category><![CDATA[auction game]]></category>
  116. <category><![CDATA[take that]]></category>
  117. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7643</guid>
  118.  
  119. <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/pathfinder-revolution-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Pathfinder Revolution" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />Pathfinder Revolution is a reskinned edition of the original Revolution game with some updates and items from previous expansions all in one box.]]></description>
  120. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/pathfinder-revolution-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Pathfinder Revolution" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/pathfinder-revolution.jpg" alt="Pathfinder Revolution" width="259" height="350" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7667" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/pathfinder-revolution.jpg 259w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/pathfinder-revolution-222x300.jpg 222w" sizes="(max-width: 259px) 100vw, 259px" /><strong>Stats:</strong><br />
  121. No. of players: 3-6<br />
  122. Amount of time to play: 60 min<br />
  123. Age requirements: 13+<br />
  124. Set-up time: 5 min</p>
  125. <p>Pathfinder Revolution is a reskinned edition of the original Revolution game with some updates and items from previous expansions all in one box.<br />
  126. <span id="more-7643"></span></p>
  127. <h2>Pathfinder Revolution Rules Description:</h2>
  128. <p>The rules for Pathfinder Revolution are the same as in the original. The names of characters you bid on and locations you influence have been changed but the rules are the same. <a href="https://www.play-board-games.com/revolution-review/" title="Revolution Review" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Some time ago I reviewed the original Revolution. If you are unfamiliar with the gameplay read my rules overview.</a> Then come back here to get caught up on the changes in the Pathfinder edition. </p>
  129. <p>One change is the way the bid boards show what you can bid on each character. Previously the backgrounds of the characters showed what they were immune to. For example, the General is immune to force so the background of his block is red in the original version. In Pathfinder Revolution, the Field Marshal&#8217;s background is black and yellow to show you can bid with blackmail and gold. The order of the characters is also different.</p>
  130. <p>This table shows a summary of the character changes:</p>
  131. <table border="solid 1px #000" id="pathfinder">
  132. <colgroup>
  133. <col width="38%" />
  134. <col width="24%" />
  135. <col width="38%" />
  136.    </colgroup>
  137. <tbody>
  138. <tr>
  139. <td><strong>Old Name</strong><strong></td>
  140. <td><strong>New Name</strong></td>
  141. <td><strong>Ability Changes</strong></td>
  142. </tr>
  143. <tr>
  144. <td>General</td>
  145. <td>Field Marshal</td>
  146. <td> No +1 Support</td>
  147. </tr>
  148. <tr>
  149. <td>Captain</td>
  150. <td>Headmaster</td>
  151. <td>None</td>
  152. </tr>
  153. <tr>
  154. <td>Innkeeper</td>
  155. <td>Innkeeper</td>
  156. <td>None</td>
  157. </tr>
  158. <tr>
  159. <td>Magistrate</td>
  160. <td>Sable Company</td>
  161. <td>No +1 Support</td>
  162. </tr>
  163. <tr>
  164. <td>Priest</td>
  165. <td>Cleric</td>
  166. <td>+5 Gold instead of +6 Support</td>
  167. </tr>
  168. <tr>
  169. <td>Aristocrat</td>
  170. <td>Fisherman</td>
  171. <td>None</td>
  172. </tr>
  173. <tr>
  174. <td>Merchant</td>
  175. <td>Arbiter</td>
  176. <td>+4 Gold instead of +5 Gold</td>
  177. </tr>
  178. <tr>
  179. <td>Printer/Messenger (P)</td>
  180. <td>Magistrate</td>
  181. <td>+7 Support and move one of your cubes</td>
  182. </tr>
  183. <tr>
  184. <td>Rogue</td>
  185. <td>Crimelord</td>
  186. <td>Option to get +8 Support instead of +2 Blackmail</td>
  187. </tr>
  188. <tr>
  189. <td>Spy</td>
  190. <td>Catsdew Lofties</td>
  191. <td>None</td>
  192. </tr>
  193. <tr>
  194. <td>Apothecary</td>
  195. <td>Red Mantis</td>
  196. <td>None</td>
  197. </tr>
  198. <tr>
  199. <td>Mercenary</td>
  200. <td>Hellknight</td>
  201. <td>None</td>
  202. </tr>
  203. <tr>
  204. <td colspan="3"><strong>5-6 Player Game</strong></td>
  205. </tr>
  206. <tr>
  207. <td>Heretic (A)</td>
  208. <td>Commoner</td>
  209. <td>None</td>
  210. </tr>
  211. <tr>
  212. <td>Mayor (P)</td>
  213. <td>Guildmaster</td>
  214. <td>Influence any open space plus the Thief Camp</td>
  215. </tr>
  216. <tr>
  217. <td>Anarchist (A)</td>
  218. <td>Monarch</td>
  219. <td>Limited to copying first three rows</td>
  220. </tr>
  221. <tr>
  222. <td>Viceroy (P)</td>
  223. <td>Seneschal</td>
  224. <td>None</td>
  225. </tr>
  226. <tr>
  227. <td><em>P = from the <a href="https://www.play-board-games.com/revolution-the-palace-expansion-review/" title="Revolution The Palace Expansion Review" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Palace expansion</a></em></td>
  228. <td></td>
  229. <td><em>A = from the Anarchy expansion</em></td>
  230. </tr>
  231. </tbody>
  232. </table>
  233. <p></br></p>
  234. <p>As you can see the names have changed and some abilities were tweaked. But at its heart, this is the same board game.</p>
  235. <h2>Quick Review of Pathfinder Revolution:</h2>
  236. <p>Pathfinder Revolution is not very different from the original board game. I am simply happy this game is back in print. It can be mean and might suffer from allowing a runaway leader, but I still enjoy it a lot.</p>
  237. <p>The components for this board game are good. The art is all from Pathfinder and looks great. One side of the board accommodates three to four players while the other is for the five or six player game. The translucent cubes are cool looking too. I do like the tokens from the original version a bit better as these are more graphic. But that is a small nitpick. The rules are well written and easy to follow and reference.</p>
  238. <p>Like I said above, this edition is basically the same as the original. Some Pathfinder fans might enjoy the references, but if you are unfamiliar with the RPG they will probably go over your head which I don’t think matters.</p>
  239. <p>You might be asking if you should buy this board game. I think that depends. Do you like auction/bidding board games? Do you dislike take that/mean mechanics? Do you own the original? If so, do you want to play with five or six players and don’t have the Palace or Anarchy expansion?</p>
  240. <p>Depending how you answer those questions, you can answer if you should buy Pathfinder Revolution. If you like bidding board games and don’t mind mean games and don’t have the original, pick this version up. If you like auction games but take that games bother you, I say try before you buy. If you have the original but want to play with more than four players, pick this up. If you have Revolution and the Palace or Anarchy expansion, you don’t really need this edition. But might enjoy the way fuses the two expansions, so give it a try.</p>
  241.  
  242. <p><strong>Score and synopsis:</strong> (<a href="../../review-categories/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here for an explanation of these review categories.</a>)<br />
  243. Strategy 4 out of 6<br />
  244. Luck 3 out of 6<br />
  245. Player Interaction 6 out of 6<br />
  246. Replay Value 5 out of 6<br />
  247. Complexity 3 out of 6<br />
  248. Fun 5 out of 6<br />
  249. <strong>Overall 5 out of 6</strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
  251. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.play-board-games.com/pathfinder-revolution-board-game-review/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  252. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  255. </item>
  256. <item>
  257. <title>Mage Knight Ultimate Edition Review</title>
  258. <link>https://www.play-board-games.com/mage-knight-ultimate-edition-review/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=mage-knight-ultimate-edition-review</link>
  259. <comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/mage-knight-ultimate-edition-review/#respond</comments>
  261. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
  262. <pubDate>Mon, 08 Jan 2024 13:25:40 +0000</pubDate>
  263. <category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
  264. <category><![CDATA[solo play]]></category>
  265. <category><![CDATA[2 or more players]]></category>
  266. <category><![CDATA[1 to 5 players]]></category>
  267. <category><![CDATA[deck-building game]]></category>
  268. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7219</guid>
  269.  
  270. <description><![CDATA[Mage Knight Ultimate Edition combines the base game, all three expansions (The Lost Legion, Krang, and Shades of Tezla), and 5 new cards. The miniatures have alternate paint jobs from the original board game too.]]></description>
  271. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mage-knight-ultimate-edition.jpg" alt="Mage Knight Ultimate Edition" width="350" height="366" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7225" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mage-knight-ultimate-edition.jpg 350w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mage-knight-ultimate-edition-287x300.jpg 287w" sizes="(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" /><strong>Stats:</strong><br />
  272. No. of players: 1-5<br />
  273. Amount of time to play: 120-240 min<br />
  274. Age requirements: 14+<br />
  275. Set-up time: 10-15 min</p>
  276. <p>Mage Knight Ultimate Edition combines the base game, all three expansions (The Lost Legion, Krang, and Shades of Tezla), and 5 new cards. The miniatures have alternate paint jobs from the original board game too.<br />
  277. <span id="more-7219"></span></p>
  278. <h2>Mage Knight Ultimate Edition Basic Rules Description:</h2>
  279. <p>Mage Knight is played out over a certain number of rounds (up to six) based on the scenario you play. Each round will alternate between day and night. After selecting your character and getting their sixteen card deck (with two character unique cards) the starting player draws a tactic card (numbered one to six) that matches the time (day or night). Then each player does the same. The tactic card will grant you a bonus as well as determine when you will act in the round. </p>
  280. <p>After shuffling your deck you draw five cards into your hand, the starting player takes a turn and play proceeds clockwise. When you try to draw a card but there are none in your deck you will trigger the last turn of the round. </p>
  281. <p>On your turn you may want to move around the map, attack monsters or visit a village or other location. To take these actions, you play cards from your hand and get the value they show for movement, attack, block, influence  or other needed resources. For example, to move three hexes next to a monster (to attack it this turn or later), you might need nine total movement. This depends on the terrain of the hexes and the time of day/night. You can play a card with a four movement and one with a five, then move. But if you only had two cards with four movement there is another solution. You can play any card sideways to gain one point of any needed basic action no matter what is on the card. To finish your turn you discard any non-wound cards you’d like then draw back up to five. </p>
  282. <p>In my example above we only moved a character, but you can move, attack and hire followers all on the same turn, if you have the cards to pay the costs those actions will take.</p>
  283. <p>The card abilities are split into two sections. The top section shows its basic ability. But cards can be enhanced by playing them and spending mana. Then you use the bottom (more powerful) ability. You may gain mana from cards, hexes on the board or as treasure, but every turn you may use one mana dice from the pool for free.</p>
  284. <p>Monsters are represented by cardboard tokens which show stats for their armor value, attack, and any special abilities they have. Combat is broken into phases. First you may make ranged/sieged attacks (this is not a basic action), if the total ranged/sieged attack value is not equal to or higher than the enemy survives and attacks you. In the next phase you block incoming damage using cards, armor, or units you command. If you cannot block the attack you gain wounds which are useless cards into your hand. You can wound units to avoid damage and even if you are hit, your armor will help reduce wounds. The last phase is when you attack the monster. Playing attack cards valued equal to or more than the monster&#8217;s armor value eliminates it.</p>
  285. <p>Defeating enemies gains you fame which acts like experience and levels you up. Going up a level grants you the ability to gain one more follower and possibly increase your hand size and armor or gain a character specific skill and an advanced action card.</p>
  286. <p>Your goal will differ based on the scenario and this rules description is just a basic overview. You should <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLC1dHV165Cu-Ps7EUa_UQjVuFVPY2cWi_" rel="noopener" target="_blank">check out these videos</a> for a more in-depth dive into Mage Knight’s rules. If at the end of the round if the goal was not met, you start the next round alternating between day and night.</p>
  287. <h2>Quick Review of Mage Knight Ultimate Edition:</h2>
  288. <p>Mage Knight Ultimate Edition is a great board game and is my favorite solitaire board game. This edition is awesome and includes everything released plus five new advanced action cards. If you have not played the game you need to realize there is a learning curve and that adding players adds time. </p>
  289. <p>The components for the Ultimate Edition are great. Everything looks fantastic on the table and the miniatures are painted very well. The rules are well written but can sometimes be hard to reference. I highly suggest reading the rules, watching a few videos, and then playing the game with a search engine close by. After playing a couple times you should have the basics down.</p>
  290. <p>One reason this game is so great is that each turn is a unique puzzle. You draw your hand and must figure out the best things you can accomplish given what you’ve drawn. There can be a few different answers and it isn’t always clear which is the best.</p>
  291. <p>Like I said each turn is a puzzle and being able to use any card for a basic action makes for some flexible yet challenging decision making. Sometimes playing cards sideways means you’ll miss out on actions you’d like later that turn. But it is super satisfying figuring out how to get the most out of your cards and accomplish your goal for the turn.</p>
  292. <p>Gaining fame and leveling up the characters is very fun too. It lets you take on later challenges in the game without getting overpowered. There is a sense of accomplishment defeating monsters and watching your character grow and gain more followers.</p>
  293. <p>Mage Knight Ultimate Edition is a time commitment and I am not sure I’d play with more than two (maybe three if everyone was pretty experienced). There is a super easy dummy player making solo play easy.</p>
  294. <p>The replay value of this game is fantastic too. You’ll want to try all the characters. The cards that come out from spells, to units or advanced actions, are different every game. This ensures a different experience every time. And that is before trying the different scenarios.</p>
  295. <p>If you are looking for a fun, kinda-heavy solitaire board game, pick up Mage Knight Ultimate Edition. For players with the base set, if you play pick up this edition. If you have the base set and the Lost Legion expansion, it might depend how much you play. I really like how everything from the series is in this edition and plan to play it often.</p>
  296.  
  297. <p><strong>Score and synopsis:</strong> (<a href="../../review-categories/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here for an explanation of these review categories.</a>)<br />
  298. Strategy 5 out of 6<br />
  299. Luck 4 out of 6<br />
  300. Player Interaction (depends on the scenario)<br />
  301. Replay Value 6 out of 6<br />
  302. Complexity 5 out of 6<br />
  303. Fun 6 out of 6<br />
  304. <strong>Overall 6 out of 6</strong> </p>]]></content:encoded>
  306. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.play-board-games.com/mage-knight-ultimate-edition-review/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  307. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  310. </item>
  311. <item>
  312. <title>Dune Imperium Digital Board Game Review</title>
  313. <link>https://www.play-board-games.com/dune-imperium-digital-board-game-review/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=dune-imperium-digital-board-game-review</link>
  314. <comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/dune-imperium-digital-board-game-review/#respond</comments>
  316. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
  317. <pubDate>Wed, 22 Nov 2023 12:54:00 +0000</pubDate>
  318. <category><![CDATA[Digital Board Game Review]]></category>
  319. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7210</guid>
  320.  
  321. <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/dune-imperium-digital-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Dune Imperium Digital" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />The digital version of Dune Imperium is a good adaptation of the physical board game. It has an intuitive interface and a good tutorial. It features solo, local, or online play and some interesting solitaire challenges.]]></description>
  322. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/dune-imperium-digital-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Dune Imperium Digital" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/dune-imperium-digital.jpg" alt="Dune Imperium Digital" width="350" height="197" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7211" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/dune-imperium-digital.jpg 350w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/dune-imperium-digital-300x169.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" />The digital version of Dune Imperium is a good adaptation of the physical board game. It has an intuitive interface and a good tutorial. It features solo, local, or online play and some interesting solitaire challenges.<br />
  323. <span id="more-7210"></span></p>
  324. <h2>Dune Imperium Digital Board Game Rules Description:</h2>
  325. <p>Dune Imperium’s main mechanics are worker placement and decking building. You have direct conflict with your opponents, as you play as one of the house leaders vying to control Dune. Each house leader has a unique ability and one unique ability associated with a card in their starting deck.</p>
  326. <p>Cards may be used in a few different ways. The icons on the left side tell you where they allow you to place your agents on the board. When used to place an agent they usually give you another benefit. For example, some cards let you trash other cards, draw cards, or gain resources. After placing your two agents you must reveal the rest of your hand. Cards have a section at the bottom summarizing what they give you when revealed. This is usually additional combat strength or Persuasion. Persuasion is spent after you reveal to add cards to your deck. You can even buy a card that scores you one VP.</p>
  327. <p>After all players have revealed their hands, you resolve the conflict. Each round a conflict is revealed and winning the conflict at the end of the round rewards players for having the most combat strength. These rewards are resources, Intrigue cards or victory points.</p>
  328. <p>Board spaces may only contain one agent and might cost resources to place an agent on. They let you get resources, draw from your deck, or gain Intrigue cards. There is a space that permanently gains you two Persuasion every round, one that gets you a third agent, and one that lets you hire a temporary agent for the round. Some spaces allow you to add troops from your supply to your garrison. Or from your garrison to the conflict. </p>
  329. <p>The last types of spaces are faction spaces. Going on them grants you a bonus and favor with that faction. Each faction has a track and scores you a VP at a certain level. Going even higher up a faction track grants you an alliance with that faction. This scores you another VP but if someone passes you on that faction track, they take your VP. Securing the top spot on a faction track ensures it can’t be stolen.</p>
  330. <p>The game lasts ten rounds or until someone scores ten VPs. No matter what, you always finish the current round and then tally the score. Players might have end game Intrigue cards that score them VPs. The player with the highest score wins and ties are broken by most resource, starting with spice, then solari, and then water.</p>
  331. <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/dune-imperium-digital-ss.jpg" alt="Dune Imperium Digital" width="550" height="309" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7212" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/dune-imperium-digital-ss.jpg 550w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/dune-imperium-digital-ss-300x169.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 550px) 100vw, 550px" /></p>
  332. <h2>Quick Review of Dune Imperium Digital Board Game:</h2>
  333. <p>Dune Imperium does a great job mixing deck building and worker placement. There are lots of ways to score points and multiple paths to victory. This digital adaptation is a great representation of the physical game. It has an easy to use interface, good tutorial, and challenging AI opponents.  </p>
  334. <p>The rules overview above is exactly that, an overview. The tutorial will help new players understand how to play the game. And if you have any questions you can always <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvX9EYxQEfY" rel="noopener" target="_blank">watch this video tutorial</a>.</p>
  335. <p>You can compete against a competitive AI or take on unique challenges in the digital version of Dune Imperium. These challenges change some rules or win conditions. For example, one challenge gives you unlimited agents but forces you to pay a solari for each one deployed after the first. Another adds the win condition of placing an agent on all non-Lannsraad (green) space. Plus once you complete the challenge on the normal level you can try an even harder variant at heroic level.</p>
  336. <p>In skirmish mode you take on the AI to score points and compete against other players. The rules and scoring modifiers change every three days. Do well and you can score achievement badges. Other modes include online multiplayer or local pass and play. There is also an events section under online play that is labeled coming soon. </p>
  337. <p>This is an excellent board game and the digital adaptation lets you play it a few different ways with some different wrinkles. You will get hours of enjoyment with this purchase. If you like the physical board game, pick this up. If you enjoy worker placement/deck building games, pick this up. If you are a Dune fan that enjoys board games, pick this up. This is a great game but I am not sure how much the theme resonates as I have never read the books.</p>
  338. <p><a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/1689500/Dune_Imperium/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Dune Imperium Digital is available on Steam</a> </p>]]></content:encoded>
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  341. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  344. </item>
  345. <item>
  346. <title>Hyperborea Light and Shadow Expansion Review</title>
  347. <link>https://www.play-board-games.com/hyperborea-light-and-shadow-expansion-review/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=hyperborea-light-and-shadow-expansion-review</link>
  348. <comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/hyperborea-light-and-shadow-expansion-review/#respond</comments>
  350. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
  351. <pubDate>Wed, 20 Sep 2023 11:20:43 +0000</pubDate>
  352. <category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
  353. <category><![CDATA[2 or more players]]></category>
  354. <category><![CDATA[three or more players]]></category>
  355. <category><![CDATA[four or more players]]></category>
  356. <category><![CDATA[expansion]]></category>
  357. <category><![CDATA[2 to 6 players]]></category>
  358. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7196</guid>
  359.  
  360. <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/hyperborea-light-shadow-expansion-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Hyperborea Light and Shadow Expansion" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />Light and Shadow is the first expansion for Hyperborea. It contains modular elements you can add to the base board game as you like. Some are easy additions even for new players and others you might want to only use with experienced players.]]></description>
  361. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/hyperborea-light-shadow-expansion-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Hyperborea Light and Shadow Expansion" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/hyperborea-light-shadow-expansion.jpg" alt="Hyperborea Light and Shadow Expansion" width="267" height="350" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7198" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/hyperborea-light-shadow-expansion.jpg 267w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/hyperborea-light-shadow-expansion-229x300.jpg 229w" sizes="(max-width: 267px) 100vw, 267px" /><strong>Stats:</strong><br />
  362. No. of players: 2-6<br />
  363. Amount of time to play: 60-180 min<br />
  364. Age requirements: 13+<br />
  365. Set-up time: 5 min</p>
  366. <p>Light and Shadow is the first expansion for Hyperborea. It contains modular elements you can add to the base board game as you like. Some are easy additions even for new players and others you might want to only use with experienced players.<br />
  367. <span id="more-7196"></span></p>
  368. <h2>Hyperborea Light and Shadow Expansion Rules Description:</h2>
  369. <p>This review is for Hyperborea Light and Shadow not the base game. If you know the basics of how to play Hyperborea, read on. If you are unfamiliar with its basic gameplay, <a href="https://www.play-board-games.com/hyperborea-board-game-review/" title="Hyperborea Board Game Review" rel="noopener" target="_blank">you can read my overview and review here</a>. The rest of this review will focus on the new elements added via the Light and Shadow expansion. </p>
  370. <p>During setup you may add Soul Cubes to the game. They come in two varieties, light and shadow. You add two of each per player. You may gain one soul cube everytime you upgrade your civilization. Instead of taking the cube associated with the track you have advanced, you may take either one light or shadow cube. Light cubes are white and may be placed on any multi-color activation space. Also when you place a white cube you draw a cube from your bag. Shadow cubes are black and may be placed on any colored activation space (not multi-colored or gray). The downside of soul cubes is they are not worth VPs at the end of the game.</p>
  371. <p>You may also choose to add Crypt/Relics tiles to Hyperborea. One Crypt/Relic tile is placed face-down on each hex adjacent to the center hex. You may use a free miniature on a hex containing a Crypt tile to claim it. The miniature that claimed the Crypt tile is returned to their capital city and the Crypt tile is placed Relic side up next to their capital. Relics grant you a once per-game or ongoing bonus and come in three types, terraforming, elite troop, or necromancy powers. </p>
  372. <p>Terraforming relics are used once and let you take an unused hex from the box and replace a current hex or add it to the map. This new hex is filled with ghosts, ruins, etc as noted and also a face-down  Crypt/Relic tile. If replacing a hex, all miniatures are placed outside of cities and ruins.</p>
  373. <p>Elite Troop relics have a corresponding colored token. When creating a miniature, you may place the colored token under it to denote it is your Elite Troop. Based on the color of the token that unit gains a bonus. If it dies you keep the token and may create another Elite Troop.</p>
  374. <p>Necromancy Powers are one-time use and let you return ghosts to the supply to get an instant bonus. This bonus might add miniatures to the board, gain extra attack, allow two teleports, or draw four cubes. </p>
  375. <p>This expansion also adds new objectives for gaining a fourth relic, controlling the center hex with no other players’ miniatures there, and for killing the last ghost. It even includes a promo objective for obtaining at least one technology from each deck. </p>
  376. <p>Lastly there are new race effects for each faction in the game.</p>
  377. <h2>Quick Review of Hyperborea Light and Shadow Expansion:</h2>
  378. <p>Hyperborea Light and Shadow adds some elements that will help new players and add flexibility for experienced ones. It also adds items for more experienced players to increase replay value and add a couple wrinkles to the base game.</p>
  379. <p>The components for this expansion are much in line with those from the base game. The art, miniatures and map all look great on the table. Unfortunately the rule book is not as great. There are errors that have been known and persisted across a few reprintings of the expansion. The main one is the reference to “cube generation” effects that should be replaced with “cube draw”. This is not a huge deal but definitely confusing and something that could have been avoided.</p>
  380. <p>The soul cubes are a nice addition everyone can enjoy. They add flexibility but at the cost of VPs. And though the light seems less useful at first, its added cube draw helps increase the productivity of your turn. The flexibility can help new players not get stuck with too many cubes of the same color. </p>
  381. <p>The crypt/relic tiles are not best for newer players but experienced Hyperborea players will enjoy the wrinkles they add. Terraforming can be very powerful and getting to change the map to your advantage can give you a leg up. The necromancy powers can be powerful, but will cost you VPs and you will need to judge whether their bonus is worth the cost. Elite troops feel like more of a mixed bag as their usefulness can depend on their color, the map, and the game situation.</p>
  382. <p>I like the new objectives as they spice things up a bit. But make sure you are using attainable objectives based on the parts of Light and Shadow you are using. Likewise the new race effects provide some nice options but are not game breaking. My biggest issue with Hyperborea was the imbalance of the races. Specifically (blue) Celestial Reign starting with Diplomacy. It allowed them to reset far quicker than the other races. Light and Shadow doesn’t necessarily address this issue. But if your group bans that starting tech at least there is another option for the blue player in this expansion.</p>
  383. <p>If you enjoy Hyperborea and are looking to add to its replay value, pick up the Light and Shadow expansion. It adds some nice elements for both new and seasoned players. </p>
  384. <p>From the publisher: In order to purchase in the USA, just send $32.50 plus $10.00 for shipping to <a href="mailto:payment@hackandslashgames.com">payment@hackandslashgames.com</a> (total of 42.50) and I&#8217;ll get one shipped to you via priority mail (so you will have it in 3 business days or less).  I will include the GenCon promo tile and some additional promo cards for our other games as well. If you need shipping outside the USA, please use our ebay listing here: <a href="https://www.ebay.com/itm/195368893476" rel="noopener" target="_blank">https://www.ebay.com/itm/195368893476</a> as Ebay will handle all the customs forms to make sure you receive your item. Be sure to message me at <a href="mailto:rshofkom@hackandslashgames.com">rshofkom@hackandslashgames.com</a> after you make the purchase, so I can provide tracking details if needed.</p>
  385. <p><strong>Score and synopsis:</strong> (<a href="../../review-categories/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here for an explanation of these review categories.</a>)<br />
  386. Strategy 3 out of 6<br />
  387. Luck 3 out of 6<br />
  388. Player Interaction 5 of 6<br />
  389. Replay Value 5 out of 6<br />
  390. Complexity 4 out of 6<br />
  391. Fun 5 out of 6<br />
  392. <strong>Overall 4 out of 6</strong> </p>]]></content:encoded>
  394. <wfw:commentRss>https://www.play-board-games.com/hyperborea-light-and-shadow-expansion-review/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  395. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  398. </item>
  399. <item>
  400. <title>KAPOW! Vol 1 Board Game Review</title>
  401. <link>https://www.play-board-games.com/kapow-vol-1-board-game-review/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=kapow-vol-1-board-game-review</link>
  402. <comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/kapow-vol-1-board-game-review/#respond</comments>
  404. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
  405. <pubDate>Wed, 30 Aug 2023 13:50:49 +0000</pubDate>
  406. <category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
  407. <category><![CDATA[solo play]]></category>
  408. <category><![CDATA[two players]]></category>
  409. <category><![CDATA[family games]]></category>
  410. <category><![CDATA[dice game]]></category>
  411. <category><![CDATA[1 to 2 players]]></category>
  412. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7188</guid>
  413.  
  414. <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/KAPOW-Vol-1-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />KAPOW! is a dice-building, superhero themed, fighting game. You have six characters to choose from and it can be played 1-vs-1 or solitaire.]]></description>
  415. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/KAPOW-Vol-1-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/KAPOW-Vol-1.jpg" alt="" width="256" height="320" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7190" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/KAPOW-Vol-1.jpg 256w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/KAPOW-Vol-1-240x300.jpg 240w" sizes="(max-width: 256px) 100vw, 256px" /><strong>Stats:</strong><br />
  416. No. of players: 1-2<br />
  417. Amount of time to play: 20-60 min<br />
  418. Age requirements: 12+<br />
  419. Set-up time: 5 min</p>
  420. <p>KAPOW! is a dice-building, superhero themed, fighting game. You have six characters to choose from and it can be played 1-vs-1 or solitaire.<br />
  421. <span id="more-7188"></span></p>
  422. <h2>Kapow! Rules Description:</h2>
  423. <p>To start KAPOW! take a player board, screen, and health tracker, then pick which character you want to play. Depending on which character you choose you put their starting health on the health tracker and take their starting dice. Some characters get tokens too. The player with lowest health gets the first player marker to begin the game.</p>
  424. <p>There are two types of dice, trait dice and action dice. Trait dice are colored dice that have three sides of a particular result. For example, the green die has three dodge results, one defense and one wild result, and one blank result. Action dice start blank but you may gain die faces to add to them.</p>
  425. <p>The game is played over rounds that are broken into four phases, Ability Selection, Attack and Defend, Power Up and After Power Up, and Clean Up.</p>
  426. <p>In Phase 1 you put up your screen and roll your dice. Both players have the same player board with the same actions on them, plus their character’s unique sideboard. After rolling their dice both players simultaneously assign their dice to abilities. These abilities will grant them attack, defense, more dice, or other special abilities. Some trigger immediately or in another phase of the round. The more powerful abilities require more dice and they might need to be matching or of a certain type.</p>
  427. <p>The Attack and Defend phase is exactly what you think. Attack and defense abilities are divided into three sections: base, kicker and multiplier.  You must use a base attack or defense to use kicker or multiplier abilities. But you may only use one base ability in attack and one in defense. The first player attacks first using the following formula, base plus kicker times multiplier. You subtract the defender’s defense value and the remainder is taken as damage. Then you follow the same procedure for the second player. Most defensive abilities gain you one or more die faces that are added to action dice later in the round. Before moving on the player with the highest defense takes the first player marker. If tied it stays with the current first player.</p>
  428. <p>Power Up and After Power Up abilities get you more trait dice or die faces for your action dice. You can also damage opponents when based on the die or dice faces they gained this round. Other character specific abilities might also resolve at this time. </p>
  429. <p>During the Clean Up phase you add any die faces you gained that round to your action dice. You can even rearrange them if you like.</p>
  430. <p>If at any point you reduce your opponent’s character to zero health the game ends and you win. It doesn’t matter if they had an ability that would gain them health later in the round.</p>
  431. <h2>Quick Review of KAPOW! Vol 1:</h2>
  432. <p>KAPOW! Is easy to teach, set up, and play. It appeals to a wide range of gamers and ages too. The theme is fun and adds to the action packed, dice-chucking battle. This game has some engine building and bluffing too. You can mitigate some of the luck factor but dice give random results.</p>
  433. <p>The components for this game are very nice. The art and graphic design add to the super hero theme. Everything looks good on the table and is sturdy. The rules are well-written and have examples to follow. There is an FAQ that should clear up any questions about specific character abilities (or other questions), <a href="https://www.wisewizardgames.com/kapow-faq/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">here</a>. I do like the artwork but it is a little mature for young kids. This is not a big deal but something a parent should be aware of in this otherwise very kid-friendly game. This might not matter to you and depends on your kids’ ages. </p>
  434. <p>This game has a nice mix of mechanics and I enjoy the bluffing of the action selection. Do you spend a round gaining dice and defending or go for an all-out attack? There are times when the dice will dictate what you can do but even if it is not efficient you can usually accomplish your goals for the round.</p>
  435. <p>The six included characters all play slightly differently and you’ll want to try them all. Some have abilities that lean more offensively or defensively. Others let you lock abilities and use them every round. You can build your action dice to suit your characters powers.</p>
  436. <p>Playing solo is fun but tough. You play against an opponent that you place dice on their board from top to bottom following priority rules. It moves quickly but like I said it is not easy. </p>
  437. <p>You should be aware this is a dice chucking board game, and though there is some luck mitigation, you are still at the mercy of your rolls. If you are not a fan of randomness in games KAPOW! Might not be for you.</p>
  438. <p>If you are looking for a fun, two player, dueling board game that is easy to teach and appeals to gamers and non-gamers, you will enjoy KAPOW! The theme is great, there is replay value in the box, and a Volume 2. </p>
  439.  
  440. <p><strong>Score and synopsis:</strong> (<a href="../../review-categories/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here for an explanation of these review categories.</a>)<br />
  441. Strategy 3 out of 6<br />
  442. Luck 5 out of 6<br />
  443. Player Interaction 6 of 6<br />
  444. Replay Value 5 out of 6<br />
  445. Complexity 4 out of 6<br />
  446. Fun 4 out of 6<br />
  447. <strong>Overall 4 out of 6</strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
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  450. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  453. </item>
  454. <item>
  455. <title>Dragonlance Warriors of Krynn Board Game Review</title>
  456. <link>https://www.play-board-games.com/dragonlance-warriors-of-krynn-board-game-review/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=dragonlance-warriors-of-krynn-board-game-review</link>
  457. <comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/dragonlance-warriors-of-krynn-board-game-review/#respond</comments>
  459. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
  460. <pubDate>Tue, 25 Jul 2023 12:41:07 +0000</pubDate>
  461. <category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
  462. <category><![CDATA[DnD]]></category>
  463. <category><![CDATA[3 players]]></category>
  464. <category><![CDATA[4 players]]></category>
  465. <category><![CDATA[Cooperative game]]></category>
  466. <category><![CDATA[war game]]></category>
  467. <category><![CDATA[3 to 5 players]]></category>
  468. <category><![CDATA[Dungeons and Dragons]]></category>
  469. <category><![CDATA[Co-operative game]]></category>
  470. <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7180</guid>
  471.  
  472. <description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/dragonlance-warriors-krynn-review-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Dragonlance Warriors of Krynn" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />Dragonlance Warriors of Krynn is a cooperative board game based on the high fantasy Dungeons and Dragons Dragonlance setting. It mimics large scale battles between good and evil armies. You play the heroes trying to help turn the tide for the good guys.]]></description>
  473. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/dragonlance-warriors-krynn-review-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Dragonlance Warriors of Krynn" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/dragonlance-warriors-krynn-review.jpg" alt="Dragonlance Warriors of Krynn" width="449" height="250" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7182" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/dragonlance-warriors-krynn-review.jpg 449w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/dragonlance-warriors-krynn-review-300x167.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 449px) 100vw, 449px" /><strong>Stats:</strong><br />
  474. No. of players: 3-5<br />
  475. Amount of time to play: 80-120 min<br />
  476. Age requirements: 14+<br />
  477. Set-up time: 10-15 min</p>
  478. <p>Dragonlance Warriors of Krynn is a cooperative board game based on the high fantasy Dungeons and Dragons Dragonlance setting. It mimics large scale battles between good and evil armies. You play the heroes trying to help turn the tide for the good guys.<br />
  479. <span id="more-7180"></span></p>
  480. <h2>Dragonlance Warriors of Krynn Rules Description:</h2>
  481. <p>This game may be played as part of the <a href="https://amzn.to/3rID3YP" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Dragonlance Shadow of the Dragon Queen</a> module or separately. Other than character selection which should be based on the character you are playing in the RPG, and how the outcomes tie into that module (vs just the next scenario), the game plays the same.</p>
  482. <p>To start you set up the map based on the scenario, pick which character you want to play, and read the scenario description. Your character will have abilities and powers based on their class. Your turns are broken into four phases; Event, Action, Respite, and Battle.</p>
  483. <p>For the Event phase you draw the top card from the event deck and resolve it. It might trigger a key event that moves the scenario forward, add troops, or somehow alter the battlefield. They also determine which army will attack in the Battle Phase.</p>
  484. <p>In the Action phase the current player may take up to four actions. Actions include moving around the map, encountering champion enemies or objectives, or helping on the battlefield. Most actions are resolved by rolling dice to get a certain number of successes. You can get additional dice by spending your class abilities cards. </p>
  485. <p>The Respite phase allows you to regain spent cards or reduce your stress. Being too stressed can trigger the end of the game and a loss.</p>
  486. <p>During the Battle phase, the larger of the armies of the battle lines denoted on the event card attack. It might be all the armies and their commanders or just one row. Battles are resolved with dice and cards. Some results might even hurt the attacking army.</p>
  487. <p>Turns continue until the players meet the scenario objective, the final key moment is read, the dragon army controls a certain number of tiles (based on the scenario) or all of them, or a player becomes too stressed.</p>
  488. <p>Each scenario has an aftermath section that details whether the players win, hold, or lose. These results determine what they’ll gain going into the next scenario.</p>
  489. <h2>Quick Review of Dragonlance Warriors of Krynn:</h2>
  490. <p>Dragonlance Warriors of Krynn is full of tension and difficult decisions. There is an imminent feeling that the good armies might falter, and sometimes they do. But there is much rejoicing when good wins the day and the evil Dragon Armies are defeated.</p>
  491. <p>There are lots of components in this board game and they are a mixed bag. The sheer amount of tokens and chits is impressive and the minis look great. The art is really nice on some items but bland on others. Some of the cardboard is fine but some is thin and flimsy. None of it really affects game play but  at least thick cardboard throughout would have  been nice. The rules are well-written and full of examples.</p>
  492. <p>The above rules overview is just that. There are more details including commanders and armies being shaken and details on movement. But I thought the above explanation gives you an idea of how the game flows.</p>
  493. <p>Like I said there are competing tensions in Warriors of Krynn. And deciding if you help in the battlefield or go resolve an encounter that might help move you closer to winning the scenario is a lot of the game play. You need to do both but will often need to find the most efficient path in order to claim victory. </p>
  494. <p>Dice are involved so there is luck and it feels good when you choose the right action and get a successful roll. Or when you avoid what seems to be an unavoidable defeat when the enemy rolls poorly. It can make for some fun and memorable moments.</p>
  495. <p>You should be aware that the setup can be a bit daunting. There are lots of chits and cards that need shuffling and the set up can take some time. Also some might consider the game fiddly.</p>
  496. <p>If you are wondering whether to pick this up it might depend on if you are playing it along with the <a href="https://amzn.to/3rID3YP" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Shadow of the Dragon Queen module</a>. I did not play it that way but think it might be best in those circumstances. How you perform in the war game will impact how things play out in the adventure. If you are a fan of Dragonlance or Dungeons and Dragons and are looking for a fantasy themed war game this might be for you too.</p>
  497.  
  498. <p><strong>Score and synopsis:</strong> (<a href="../../review-categories/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here for an explanation of these review categories.</a>)<br />
  499. Strategy 4 out of 6<br />
  500. Luck 4 out of 6<br />
  501. Player Interaction 4 of 6<br />
  502. Replay Value 4 out of 6<br />
  503. Complexity 4 out of 6<br />
  504. Fun 4 out of 6<br />
  505. <strong>Overall 4 out of 6</strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
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