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<strong>Overall 5 out of 6</strong></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                          ^

Source: http://feeds.feedburner.com/playboardgames/

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<title>Dungeons & Dragons Starter Set: Heroes on the Borderlands Review</title>
<link>https://www.play-board-games.com/dungeons-dragons-starter-set-heroes-on-the-borderlands-review/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=dungeons-dragons-starter-set-heroes-on-the-borderlands-review</link>
<comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/dungeons-dragons-starter-set-heroes-on-the-borderlands-review/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Sep 2025 04:36:19 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[RPG Review]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[DnD]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[gateway game]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[family games]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7909</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/dnd-starter-set-horoes-borderlands-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" />The latest starter set for DnD 5th edition includes updates from the 2024 Revised Core Rulebooks. There are a lot of board game elements in the box to help new players learn how to play Dungeons and Dragons. This includes pre-printed maps, tokens for monsters, cards for NPCs and more. The included adventure is for one to four characters plus one DM.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/dnd-starter-set-horoes-borderlands-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" /><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/dnd-starter-set-horoes-borderlands.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="353" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7910" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/dnd-starter-set-horoes-borderlands.jpg 300w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/dnd-starter-set-horoes-borderlands-255x300.jpg 255w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />The latest starter set for DnD 5th edition includes updates from the 2024 Revised Core Rulebooks. There are a lot of board game elements in the box to help new players learn how to play Dungeons and Dragons. This includes pre-printed maps, tokens for monsters, cards for NPCs and more. The included adventure is for one to four characters plus one Dungeon Master.

<h2>DnD Starter Set Heroes on the Borderlands Description:</h2>
Heroes on the Borderlands contains contains a quick-start guide, a play guide reference booklet, three adventure booklets, eight player class boards (for Fighter, Cleric, Wizard, and Rogue), over 200 game cards, 11 dice, over 20 poster maps, and over 200 tokens (including monsters, resources, and terrain). It also includes a combat tracker and in-world handouts to help immerse players into the world. 
Creating a Player Character (PC) is done by selecting one of the player boards, choosing a species and background card, and then gathering the equipment and spell cards you might need. You place any power tokens that are removed when you use your PCs abilities. And you get hit point tokens equal to your starting health and gold tokens equal to your starting gold.
The quick-start guide walks you through unboxing things and who needs to read what. There is a QR code that links to a couple intro videos by Becca Scott. These give players an idea what to expect and the basics of how to play Dungeons and Dragons. For more information PCs can use the play guide to help them.
The Dungeon Master (DM) and players can choose which adventure book to start with but it is suggested newcomers start with the Wilderness booklet. It has a series of encounters that highlight different aspects of the game like meeting an NPC, exploring regions and combat. You can use the included maps and tokens or try theater of the mind but again newcomers might find the physical representation helpful. Any items or cards the DM needs are listed in the scenario booklet.
This starter set uses milestone experience which means you level up at certain parts of the campaign. When you level up you simply flip your playboard over and place any additional cards or tokens as necessary. There is enough adventure material to get your PCs to 3rd level.
<h2>Dungeons and Dragons Heroes on the Borderlands Review:</h2>
Heroes on the Borderlands is a starter set for the Dungeons and Dragons that features the updated 2024 rules. It is different than previous starter sets as it includes a lot of helper elements and items you’d find in board games. In fact this starter set is listed and sold as a board game.
There is a lot to like about this starter set. The quick character creation is better than pregenerated characters. Most new players will appreciate the choices they can make but won’t be overwhelmed starting from scratch. 
The NPC and monster cards look great and have useful information on them. These give DMs something to show players when they encounter an NPC or monster. It has a brief description of the NPC’s ways they might talk and what they might know or say.
All the maps and tokens you get help your group see combat and encounters. They look great and you can use them for other adventures. Miniatures are great but can be expensive. Having these maps, tokens, and standees is a nice jump start.
 
Some other nice to have items are the player aid which details what players may do one their turn. And the combat tracker. It reminds me of the initiative tracker in Roll20 but with even more helpful information. 
Not everything is perfect though. Though character creation is streamlined you may only have one PC of each class in your party. If two players want to be wizards, too bad.
Another small nitpick is the cards having the monster/NPC name on the side with the art. It is less of an issue for NPCs, but for monsters you lose some of the mystery and discovery of encounters. This is especially true for new players. It is awesome being able to show them the scary thing they see, but I would like to retain the unknown aspect of what it is.
You might be wondering who should buy Heroes on the Borderlands. It’s a great question. Obviously anyone interested in trying out Dungeons and Dragons for the first time. This is an excellent introduction to the game and how to play it. It also might make sense for newer groups or DMs that would like the maps, tokens, and other elements to include in their games. If you are a veteran DM or experienced group there is probably less in this starter set for you.]]></content:encoded>
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<item>
<title>Heroscape Age of Annihilation Wave 2 & 3 Review</title>
<link>https://www.play-board-games.com/heroscape-age-of-annihilation-wave-2-3-review/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=heroscape-age-of-annihilation-wave-2-3-review</link>
<comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/heroscape-age-of-annihilation-wave-2-3-review/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Thu, 04 Sep 2025 02:02:43 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[two players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[family games]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[2 or 4 players]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7901</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/heroscape-revnas-rebuke-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Heroscape Revnas Rebuke" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />Expansions for Heroscape Age of Annihilation are available. Both Revna’s Rebuke (Wave 2) and Rising Tide (Wave 3) add new figures, factions, and unique special abilities. They even offer additional terrain.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/heroscape-revnas-rebuke-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Heroscape Revnas Rebuke" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/heroscape-revnas-rebuke.jpg" alt="Heroscape Revnas Rebuke" width="350" height="209" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7904" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/heroscape-revnas-rebuke.jpg 350w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/heroscape-revnas-rebuke-300x179.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" />Stats:
No. of players: 2 
Amount of time to play: 60-120 min 
Age requirements: 14+ 
Set-up time: 10-20 min
Expansions for Heroscape Age of Annihilation are available. Both Revna’s Rebuke (Wave 2) and Rising Tide (Wave 3) add new figures, factions, and unique special abilities. They even offer additional terrain. 

<h2>Heroscape Age of Annihilation Revna’s Rebuke (Wave 2) & Rising Tide (Wave 3) Description:</h2>
Previously I reviewed the Heroscape Age of Annihilation Master Set. Shortly after its release Waves 2 and 3 hit the market. Wave 2, named Revna’s Rebuke, introduces two army expansion packs. Wave 3, named Rising Tide, consists of six army expansions and two terrain expansions. I did not get all of these expansion boxes and am only giving details and reviewing the ones I have.
One Revna’s Rebuke (Wave 2) expansion box adds five <a href="https://amzn.to/4mGiKCR" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored " target="_blank">Kyrie figures</a>: Queen Qhyrion, Xiamara, Glinerva, Mielki, and Kilkorax. The other contains the <a href="https://amzn.to/42eJiml" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored " target="_blank">Iron Lich Viscerot and Necrotech Wraithriders</a>. 
The Kyrie warriors are flying melee units. And though they have pretty run-of-the-mill stats, it’s their special abilities that set them apart. Queen Qhyrion has an attack that reduces the opponent’s defense dice to one if she rolls a 12 or more. Xiamara reduces the wounds taken by other Ulnaar Kyrie within six spaces of her to one. Glinerva can conceal friendly units within five spaces of her from ranged attacks. Mielki has a double attack and can heal some friendly units when she eliminates an enemy. Kilkorax can pull figures within five spaces of her toward her.
Debuting in this expansion are the Eisenek, a faction of cybernetic beings. Iron Lich Viscerot is a huge figure that can ignore smaller units when moving around the map. He can also increase another Eisenek’s move and attack by two up to three times per game. Also when he acts you may take a turn with another Eisenek unit. That might include the Necrotech Wraithriders. They are a squad of three figures and have an eight move, but they cannot go up more than two levels. Their chain grab ability can help them pull enemy units from up to three spaces away next to them.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/heroscape-rising-tide.jpg" alt="Heroscape Rising Tide" width="527" height="180" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7905" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/heroscape-rising-tide.jpg 527w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/heroscape-rising-tide-300x102.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 527px) 100vw, 527px" />
Rising Tide (Wave 3) has an army expansion with <a href="https://amzn.to/47YkfaQ" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored " target="_blank">Sonlan and Halushia</a>. Two large figures from the Ullar faction. Sonlan can heal friends while moving over them and has a double attack. Halushia can have a beast figure act on his turn, removes one defense die from enemies next to forest spaces, and can attack as he runs past enemy figures. 
The <a href="https://amzn.to/45YbFXa" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored " target="_blank">Knight Primus Adelbern & Ordo Borealis</a> box adds four more ursine Jandar figures. One unique champion and a squad of three. Knight Primus Adelbern can wound small and medium enemies just by walking up to them. The Ordo Borealis squad has a range of six (instead of one) if they don’t move.
There is another Eisenek unit in Wave 3, the <a href="https://amzn.to/4ngZpYN" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored " target="_blank">Hellforge Mandukor</a>. It is a huge figure that has a chance to inflict a wound on any figure it moves adjacent to. Figures adjacent to it that are destroyed give it a chance to heal. Also on turns when only Eisenek figures have order markers the Hellforge Mandukor may move four spaces after order markers are placed.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/heroscape-rising-tide2.jpg" alt="Heroscape Rising Tide" width="328" height="180" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7906" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/heroscape-rising-tide2.jpg 328w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/heroscape-rising-tide2-300x165.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 328px) 100vw, 328px" />
One of two army expansions that introduce the Skordyre faction is <a href="https://amzn.to/4pbLe9o" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored " target="_blank">Oathbound Phalanx and Oathbound Legionnaires</a>. They work in conjunction with each other. The huge Phalanx figure needs the Legionnaires to shrug damage or perform an impactful multi-attack. The Legionnaires are a four figure squad that can attack on their own or join with the Phalanx from turn to turn.
The <a href="https://amzn.to/45ZOADl" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored " target="_blank">Queen Maladrix and Festering Honor Guard</a> is a six figure army expansion box. Queen Maladrix is a huge Skordyre figure with double attack. When she activates her Honor Guard does too. She also lets you place destroyed Honor Guards on enemy heroes cards. Then each turn there is a chance the Honor Guard parasite will destroy that enemy hero.
<h2>Heroscape Age of Annihilation Expansions Review:</h2>
The new units introduced in the Revna’s Rebuke and Rising Tide expansions are welcome additions to the Master Set and Battle Box. They are affiliated with a variety of factions and generals so you can pair them with old and new units. They offer a bunch of new special abilities you will want to try too. Some are paired well with other units released in their wave (like the two Skordye boxes), some pair well with units from the Age of Annihilation line (like the ursine Jander box) and others pair with figures from the original Heroscape (the new Ullar Kyries strengthens older Ullar units).
As with the other releases in the Age of Annihilation line the figures look fantastic. The sculpts have detail, look impressive and have good paint jobs (if you get the pre-painted sets). Just the size of the larger figures is daunting. They look scary on the table. The army cards have great artwork and special abilities are well explained and easy to understand.
Should you pick all of these (plus the other wave 2 and 3 expansions) up? Some of them? While this is a pretty individual question, I am going to propose some guidelines. First, what do you already have? Do these army sets work with units you already play and enjoy? Have you played a lot of games with your current figures and want to mix it up? And I guess there is always, I must get everything to complete my collection. People in the last group can just buy away and enjoy having everything. Others will probably want to focus what they get on what they like or the type of variety of units they want to bring to their game. What is nice is you can pick and choose or add expansion boxes over time.]]></content:encoded>
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</item>
<item>
<title>Hoplomachus Remastered Board Game Review</title>
<link>https://www.play-board-games.com/hoplomachus-remastered-board-game-review/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=hoplomachus-remastered-board-game-review</link>
<comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/hoplomachus-remastered-board-game-review/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 04 Aug 2025 16:11:55 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[solo play]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[two players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[4 players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[1 to 4 players]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7891</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/hoplomachus-remastered-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Hoplomachus Remastered" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />In Hoplomachus Remastered, you control one of seven unique factions, each has a distinct playstyle, and compete in gladiatorial skirmishes. This updated version is playable solo, with two players cooperatively, 1-vs-1 or 2-vs-2.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/hoplomachus-remastered-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Hoplomachus Remastered" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/hoplomachus-remastered.jpg" alt="Hoplomachus Remastered" width="300" height="170" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7894" />Stats:
No. of players: 1-4 
Amount of time to play: 60-120 min 
Age requirements: 10+ 
Set-up time: 5-10 min
In Hoplomachus Remastered, you control one of seven unique factions, each has a distinct playstyle, and compete in gladiatorial skirmishes. This updated version is playable solo, with two players cooperatively, 1-vs-1 or 2-vs-2. 

<h2>Hoplomachus Remastered Rules Description:</h2>
Previously I reviewed <a href="https://www.play-board-games.com/hoplomachus-victorum-board-game-review/" title="Hoplomachus Victorum Board Game Review" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Hoplomachus: Victorum</a>, it uses the same basic rules as Hoplomachus Remastered. Hoplomachus Remastered is a skirmish game with several modes (including solo) and is an episodic game. <a href="https://www.play-board-games.com/hoplomachus-victorum-board-game-review/" title="Hoplomachus Victorum Board Game Review" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Hoplomachus: Victorum</a> is a solo campaign board game with an overarching story and character and team development. You can read my review of the Victorum edition here.
Hoplomachus Remastered uses the same great looking plastic unit chips with the same stats and information on them. There are seven factions in the game each has one hero and ten units for you to command. 
For the most part your turn flows the same no matter which game mode you play. The first step is to check control of the stone hexes, but only applies on the Pozzuoli side of the map. The bonuses for these spaces are determined by the game mode.
Next, the Deployment step allows you to place available units onto your deployment hexes. If you have no units in play you must deploy at least one unit. Units enter play dazed and cannot do anything but use innate abilities upon entering the arena. When placing a unit put health chips under it equal to its health stat.
In the Tactic step, you may place a tactic on any or your non-elite units or an adjacent enemy non-elite unit. Tactics will give your units a bonus and enemy units a penalty.
The Movement step is exactly what it sounds like, you may move any of your units based ontheir movement stat. You must complete one unit’s move completely before moving another unit and cannot move through blocked hexes.
Abilities are triggered next and you may utilize them in any order you like.
During the Engage step you attack with a unit’s melee or range attack or use a Special skill. Pick a target and roll the dice that match those showing on the unit’s chip or described in its Special skill. Count the number of hits rolled and remove that many health chips from the targeted unit. If a uit runs out of health chips it is removed from the arena.
Solo and cooperative modes have a Rival Turn during which enemy units follow a similar flow.
There are five game modes, Onslaught, Ascension, Skirmish, Pandemonium, and Alliance. Onslaught is a cooperative mode for one or two players. You face off against wave after wave of immortals and their allied units. Ascension mode is also cooperative and for one or two players. In it you take on a godlike titan who interacts uniquely with the arena and brings along some allied units. Skirmish mode is a two player head-to-head match. Pandemonium mode is a frantic four play free for all. Alliance is a four player two-vs-vs team match.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/hoplomachus-remastered-all.jpg" alt="Hoplomachus Remastered" width="550" height="254" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-7893" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/hoplomachus-remastered-all.jpg 550w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/hoplomachus-remastered-all-300x139.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 550px) 100vw, 550px" />
<h2>Quick Review of Hoplomachus Remastered:</h2>
Hoplomachus Remastered gives you a lot of different ways to play it with different player counts. Its flexibility is impressive. All five modes are fun but the head-to-head skirmish mode shines. This is a tactical board game that can be played and enjoyed by a variety of ages. Its appeal is not limited to gamers either.
The components for this game are fantastic. Chip Theory Games are known for their high quality games and this one is no different. The plastic chips, arena maps and cards are top-notch and look great too. The rules are well organized and the player aid is helpful so keep it close by. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-IPkleHoRs" rel="noopener nofollow " target="_blank">Here is a video overview of the rules that can jumpstart learning.</a>
There is a ton of replay value in this box. Not only will you want to try all the different game modes, but there are seven factions with unique playstyles to try out. And three different neutral heroes to mix things up. 
Hoplomachus Remastered is very accessible. It is easy to teach and learn and fun for all ages. This helps it get to the table more often and allows you to partake of all the variety mentioned above. Some games have variety but are hard to get new players up to speed. That is not the case here.
This tactical skirmish game rewards smart positioning and engagement. Drawing your available units to deploy from a bag adds some randomness, but making the most of your ready units is important. Timely use of your tactics can turn a game in your favor. Also being a dice game means being lucky can help too.
Some people might be wondering which to get, Hoplomachus Remastered or <a href="https://www.play-board-games.com/hoplomachus-victorum-board-game-review/" title="Hoplomachus Victorum Board Game Review" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Hoplomachus Victorum</a>. The answer depends on if you want a solo game or a game you can play solo and with others. If you play mostly solo games get Hoplomachus Victorum. If you have a consistent friend or group of friends to play with then Hoplomachus Remastered might make more sense.
Score and synopsis: (<a href="../../review-categories/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here for an explanation of these review categories.</a>) 
Strategy 4 out of 6 
Luck 5 out of 6 
Player Interaction 6 of 6 (for applicable modes) 
Replay Value 5 out of 6 
Complexity 4 out of 6 
Fun 5 out of 6 
Overall 5 out of 6]]></content:encoded>
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</item>
<item>
<title>SETI Board Game Review</title>
<link>https://www.play-board-games.com/seti-board-game-review/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=seti-board-game-review</link>
<comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/seti-board-game-review/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:58:05 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[solo play]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[two players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[3 players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[4 players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[1 to 4 players]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7880</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/seti-board-game-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="SETI board game" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />SETI: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence is a board game inspired by the real-world SETI project, the game simulates the race to be the first to contact alien civilizations through scientific discovery and space exploration. You need to scan the skies, send probes to planets and their moons, advance your technology, and gather data to discover alien life (and score VPs).]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/seti-board-game-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="SETI board game" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/seti-board-game.jpg" alt="SETI board game" width="341" height="300" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7882" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/seti-board-game.jpg 341w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/seti-board-game-300x264.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 341px) 100vw, 341px" />Stats:
No. of players: 1-4 
Amount of time to play: 60-160 min 
Age requirements: 13+ 
Set-up time: minimal
SETI: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence is a board game inspired by the real-world SETI project, the game simulates the race to be the first to contact alien civilizations through scientific discovery and space exploration. You need to scan the skies, send probes to planets and their moons, advance your technology, and gather data to discover alien life (and score VPs). 

<h2>SETI Rules Description:</h2>
In SETI you represent a team of scientists trying to discover alien life. The game is played over five rounds. You start the game with four publicity, four credits, three energy, and five cards. The first thing you’ll do is turn one card into income (and instantly receive it). There are other opportunities to increase your income and you will collect it between each round.
Every card may be used in a few different ways. The upper left hand corner shows an icon that can be used to gain movement, publicity, or data. In the center of the card is a main action you may resolve that usually costs credits. The icon in the lower right corner of the card shows what you gain when it is used for income.
On your turn you may take one main action and as many free actions as you like. If you cannot afford (or no longer want) to take an action you can pass. After all players have passed the round ends. 
The main action include:
Play a card – Resolve the main action on a card. Some of these include missions that can get you additional resources or VPs
Launch a probe – Pay two credits to place one of your probes on Earth
Orbit – Once your probe has moved to a planet it may orbit that planet for the cost of one energy and one credit. This will often score VPs and get you other resources or income.
Land – A probe at a planet may land on it. This action costs three energy (or two if there is a probe orbiting the planet) and will get you VPs and other resources as well as a yellow life trace.
Scan – For one credit and two energy you can scan the stars above Earth. This gets you data and can score VPs once the scanning track is full. The player with the most scan tokens scores and gets a bonus including a red life trace.
Analyze data – If your computer is full of data you may spend an energy to analyze the data which empties your computer and gets you a blue life trace.
Research a tech – Gain a tech for six publicity. These tech come with an instant bonus and can upgrade your computer, probes, and scanning capabilities. 
Pass – Discard down to four cards, rotate the solar system (only the first player to pass), and select one card from the end-of-round pile putting the rest back. 
Free actions are:
Place data – You may place data you have collected into your computer
Complete a mission – If you previously played a card with a mission on it you may complete it and gain the rewards.
Play a card for its free-action – Discard a card to gain the resource in the upper left corner.
Buy a movement – Spend one energy to move a probe one space
Buy a card – Spend three publicity to gain a card
Exchange resources – Swap two of the same resources for one other resource. 
Once you and your opponents have marked one blue, yellow and red life trace, you reveal the aliens. They will add additional cards and possible missions for you to accomplish. 
There are lots of ways to score VPs in this game including end game scoring tiles. You choose which three of the four end game scoring tiles you’ll use when you pass 25, 50, and 70 VPs. After five rounds the game ends and you add the end game scoring to your total. The player with the most VPs wins.
<h2>Quick Review of SETI:</h2>
SETI: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence is a simple yet complicated board game. The actions are easy to understand and straightforward but it will take a few games to understand when best to take them. You have a lot of options early in rounds, but as you play cards and spend resources, your options dwindle. 
The components for this game are great. Though it takes up a lot of space the game looks impressive. The highlight is the solar system that actually rotates. The art looks good and the cards are well laid out. The iconography might take a game to take in but once understood it does a good job communicating actions and other information. There is also an excellent player aid to help you remember and translate things. The rules are well written, but I highly suggest watching this excellent <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsJgjoEYNAY" rel="noopener nofollow " target="_blank">how to play video</a>.
The cards in SETI can be used for different things. You must decide how best to use your cards given the resources you have. You must also balance short term gains with building an engine that will propel you to the stars in later rounds. It creates a fun and interesting puzzle. And with 200+ cards the puzzle is never quite the same.
SETI’s theme is based on the actual science we are using to scan space. Obviously alien discovery and contact has not occurred, but it is cool that past and present technology is in the game. 
Also adding to the theme are the unknown aliens. They add a sense of discovery especially the first time you encounter each race. They add some chaos to the game by changing the board’s landscape and letting you score in additional ways. Some might feel having only five alien races will limit replay value, but I would be surprised if we never see an expansion with more.
The solo mode is fun, doesn’t require you to learn a lot of new rules or mechanics, and you can adjust its difficulty to your liking.
Like I mentioned that this game is a card-driven puzzle. And how you often have many options but which is best can be hard to determine. This is especially true on your first couple of plays. There is a learning curve, but it is not steep. The game is not super complex, but knowing what to do when is tough.
Another thing to be aware of is that you should explore to win. Scanning is helpful but if you focus there you will probably get outscored by players that launched probes and took to the sky. Landing on moons can get lots of points and traveling to distant planets is worthwhile.
Lastly, know that with higher player counts there is more downtime. This is exacerbated if someone in your group suffers from analysis paralysis. I have also heard that if you fall behind in the early game, there is no mechanic to help you catch back up.
If you are looking for a fun, medium-heavy weight board game, pick up SETI. It will take a couple plays to comprehend the puzzle of this game. But you will enjoy learning and then playing more. It is worth the investment.
Score and synopsis: (<a href="../../review-categories/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here for an explanation of these review categories.</a>) 
Strategy 4 out of 6 
Luck 4 out of 6 
Player Interaction 4 of 6 
Replay Value 4 out of 6 
Complexity 4 out of 6 
Fun 5 out of 6 
Overall 5 out of 6]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Cars Wars Companion and Red/Yellow Starter Set Review</title>
<link>https://www.play-board-games.com/cars-wars-companion-and-red-yellow-starter-set-review/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=cars-wars-companion-and-red-yellow-starter-set-review</link>
<comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/cars-wars-companion-and-red-yellow-starter-set-review/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 04 Jun 2025 03:43:03 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[two players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[3 players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[4 players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[2 to 4 players]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7873</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/car-wars-companion-red-yellow-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Car Wars Companion & Red Yellow Starter Set" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />The Car Wars Companion adds new options, scenarios, and rules to enhance and customize your auto dueling experience. Many of the scenarios work for four players so I tried out the Red/Yellow Starter set too.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/car-wars-companion-red-yellow-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Car Wars Companion & Red Yellow Starter Set" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/car-wars-companion-red-yellow.jpg" alt="Car Wars Companion & Red Yellow Starter Set" width="489" height="300" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7876" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/car-wars-companion-red-yellow.jpg 489w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/car-wars-companion-red-yellow-300x184.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 489px) 100vw, 489px" />Stats:
No. of players: 2 
Amount of time to play: 60-120 min 
Age requirements: 10+ 
Set-up time: 5-10 min
The Car Wars Companion adds new options, scenarios, and rules to enhance and customize your auto dueling experience. Many of the scenarios work for four players so I tried out the Red/Yellow Starter set too. 

<h2>Car Wars Companion Description:</h2>
The Car Wars Companion starts with an introduction and explanation of how to use the book. Next there is a section about building an arena. It gives rules for existing obstacles and hazards as well as introducing new obstacles and hazards. This includes turrets, grandstands, charge plates, flaming oil and saw blades. You can put these into the arenas you build to add even more action and danger for your automotive combatants. 
The next section (and majority of the book) has over 30 scenarios. These scenarios alter some rules, add some hazards and obstacles, and/or introduce entirely new elements to the game. Each scenario starts with a brief introduction, followed by the set up and any specific rules needed to play. The components box highlights what game sets or expansions are needed to play the scenario. You don’t always need all of these components, like specific playmats etc, but they might make it easier. The write up also includes the map, ways to score points (if applicable), and the win condition.
New optional rules from the scenarios and beyond are included in the next section. You can add these as you like to your Car Wars game. There is a section of weather effects so you can add the natural elements to your outdoor arena. And a section on underdog tokens. These are tokens you earn when things don’t go your way. You can spend them later to add dice to your attack or defense or other bonuses.
If you have less than four players you can add bots to the game. Bots still require a dashboard and are managed by a human. The next section details how to build bots, how they act in combat based on their personality at that time.
After the bots section you learn all about the dice. There is a graphic showing all the different colored dice and their faces. It also talks about the strategy of re-rolls and which dice might be beneficial or detrimental to re-roll.
The book ends with some sample maps you can make using the road tiles you may purchase.
<h2>Red/Yellow Starter Set Description:</h2>
Previously I reviewed the Orange/Purple starter set. The Red/Yellow starter set is similar but does contain a few more items. It includes six miniatures instead of just two. There are still just two bases so more miniatures doesn’t equal more than two players. There are just more miniatures options. Also instead of having sample builds in the rulebook, there are record sheets for each car. Other than that the sets are the same.
<h2>Quick Review of the Car Wars Companion:</h2>
The Car Wars Companion adds a bunch of fun ways to play the game. The scenarios alone add a ton of wrinkles to the game. The additional hazards and obstacles allow players to create their own unique scenarios and customized arenas. This all increases Car Wars’ replay value.
The bot rules allow for solo play or you can add more opponents to scenarios with more players. Running the bots are a bit cumbersome at first, but over time they get easier to manage. They can help add targets, but they are not as intelligent as actual players.
Some of the other information in the Car Wars Companion is nice to have. Like the theories on re-rolls and sample maps. It is cool to get but the main reason to pick this up is if you want to add some variety to your Car Wars game.
<h2>Quick Review of the Car Wars Red/Yellow Starter Set:</h2>
After playing two player games with the Orange/Purple Starter Set i wanted to try out four player games. Getting the Red/Yellow or any of the other Starter Sets made this a reality. I am happy I tried it out and there are different things I like about Car Wars at different player counts. With two it is less chaotic and there are fewer targets. When playing with three or four players there is more action, but opportunities to gang up on one opponent. Two vs two team games can strike a chord between these, but they are all fun for different reasons. I will say three players is awkward as one player tends to be taken out quickly as ganging up and king-making is more likely.
The contents of the Red/Yellow Starter Set is similar to the Orange/Purple Starter Set. The extra miniatures are nice. And for newer players the pre-made cars are great for jumping in. Having two starter sets is nice as there are lots of dice to go around. Everyone gets their own turning key too.]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Ring of Chaos Board Game Review</title>
<link>https://www.play-board-games.com/ring-of-chaos-board-game-review/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ring-of-chaos-board-game-review</link>
<comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/ring-of-chaos-board-game-review/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 12 May 2025 13:29:22 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[three or more players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[3 to 6 players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[take that]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7864</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ring-of-chaos-board-game-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Ring of Chaos Board Game" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />In Ring of Chaos, players lead a party of four adventurers to claim the legendary Ring of Chaos. This artifact grants its wielder immense power, capable of summoning the Chaos Gods to reshape the world. To claim the Ring, players must confront rival adventurers and survive encounters with formidable guardians.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ring-of-chaos-board-game-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Ring of Chaos Board Game" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ring-of-chaos-board-game.jpg" alt="Ring of Chaos Board Game" width="277" height="350" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7867" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ring-of-chaos-board-game.jpg 277w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ring-of-chaos-board-game-237x300.jpg 237w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 277px) 100vw, 277px" />Stats:
No. of players: 3-6 
Amount of time to play: 60-120 min 
Age requirements: 13+ 
Set-up time: minimal
In Ring of Chaos, players lead a party of four adventurers to claim the legendary Ring of Chaos. This artifact grants its wielder immense power, capable of summoning the Chaos Gods to reshape the world. To claim the Ring, players must confront rival adventurers and survive encounters with formidable guardians. 

<h2>Ring of Chaos Rules Description:</h2>
To begin Ring of Chaos you select your adventuring party. There are eight to choose from and each has a unique special ability. Then you set the heroes on your player mat, place one of your standees on a starting space on the map and the other on the summoning track, and draw four cards. To win the game you must gain 11 summoning points or be the last party standing.
On your turn you draw three cards one at a time. If you draw a Temple Guardian it should be resolved immediately. Temple Guardians attack every party, but each player decides which of their four heroes take the attack. This attack may be avoided by discarding any playable Attack or Counter action card. After resolving the Temple Guardian you continue drawing cards until you have three new cards in your hand.
Next you may take one Move, one Attack, and one Bonus action in any order. Move actions include, play a Move action card or move up to two spaces on the board. Landing on an occupied space allows you to push that party to an empty space. Attack actions let you either play an Attack action card or draw a card from the deck. Bonus actions are, play a Bonus action card, pick up the Ring of Chaos (if it is in your space), or steal the ring from an adjacent party. At the end of your turn you must discard down to five cards.
Attacks come in two types: melee and ranged. Melee attacks must be against a party adjacent to you and Ranged attacks can only be against a party not adjacent to you. A few Attack cards are labeled Any and may be used as either type and Attacks cards labeled All impact all parties but the current player’s. Attackers target a specific Hero and the defender must play an appropriate Counter card or take damage. The first time your hero takes damage their card is flipped over to the wounded side. The second time they are dead. Wounded heroes cannot defend. Some attacks are color coded and may only be played if the associated hero is still alive.
Picking up or stealing the Ring of Chaos gets you one summoning point. Possessing it at the beginning of your turn gets you three more. Eliminating an opposing party lets you take all their summoning points. But you can only score your 11th and final summoning point by wearing or stealing the ring. 
<h2>Quick Review of Ring of Chaos:</h2>
Ring of Chaos is aptly named. It is a chaotic board game full of action and “take that”. It is easy to learn and teach. You can play this with gamers and non-gamers and everyone should enjoy it. Unless they are not a fan of “take that” board games and player elimination.
The components for this game are well made. I do not have the platinum edition but the standees in the retail version look good. The art is well done and the rules are well-written. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aORVWmwGrY" rel="noopener nofollow " target="_blank">Here is an excellent how to play video.</a> 
Ring of Chaos has simple mechanics, has multiple ways to win and is fast-paced. Though more casual, this game is easy to get to the table. 
There are eight unique adventuring parties with different abilities. You will want to try them all and they add a wrinkle to each game. You draft them at the beginning of the game so you should get a chance to try them all out. 
This game supports three to six players. That means it is not great for couples. But finding decent board games for six or more players can be tough. It is nice that it goes above the usual four or five players.
Some things to be aware of in Ring of Chaos. Obviously the “take that” mechanic. But also it is optimal to kill your opponent’s cleric first. This will remove their ability to resurrect a Hero. That is unless their party is the Dread Legion. Then they can use cards from eliminated classes. 
That leads to another thing. I am not sure the abilities are balanced. The Brute Squad and Dread Legion are pretty powerful. I explained the Dread Leagion’s ability above. The Brute’s melee attacks count as two hits if successful. That means in melee they one-shot your heroes.
Lastly there is player elimination. Once your heroes are all dead you have to sit and watch your friends play the game. Depending how long you wait this might bother you more.
If you are looking for a lighter, casual, “take that” board game, give Ring of Chaos a try.
Score and synopsis: (<a href="../../review-categories/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here for an explanation of these review categories.</a>) 
Strategy 3 out of 6 
Luck 6 out of 6 
Player Interaction 6 of 6 
Replay Value 4 out of 6 
Complexity 2 out of 6 
Fun 4 out of 6 
Overall 4 out of 6]]></content:encoded>
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<title>Kinfire Delve Callous’ Lab Game Review</title>
<link>https://www.play-board-games.com/kinfire-delve-callous-lab-game-review/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=kinfire-delve-callous-lab-game-review</link>
<comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/kinfire-delve-callous-lab-game-review/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Wed, 30 Apr 2025 03:34:40 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Board Game Reviews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[solo play]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[two players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Cooperative game]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[1 to 2 players]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Co-operative game]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7838</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kinfire-delve-callous-lab-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Kinfire Delve Callous' Lab" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />Kinfire Delve: Callous' Lab is a card-driven, cooperative board game set in a fantasy world that is plagued by a returning Darkness. Players, as Seekers armed with kinfire lanterns, explore unique dungeons called Wells, each ruled by powerful Well Masters, to protect their world.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kinfire-delve-callous-lab-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="Kinfire Delve Callous' Lab" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kinfire-delve-callous-lab.jpg" alt="Kinfire Delve Callous' Lab" width="272" height="350" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7840" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kinfire-delve-callous-lab.jpg 272w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/kinfire-delve-callous-lab-233x300.jpg 233w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 272px) 100vw, 272px" />Stats:
No. of players: 1-2 
Amount of time to play: 60-120 min 
Age requirements: 14+ 
Set-up time: 5 min
Kinfire Delve: Callous’ Lab is a card-driven, cooperative board game set in a fantasy world that is plagued by a returning Darkness. Players, as Seekers armed with kinfire lanterns, explore unique dungeons called Wells, each ruled by powerful Well Masters, to protect their world. 

<h2>Kinfire Delve Callous’ Lab Rules Description:</h2>
To begin Kinfire Delve you randomly select the one of the three Master cards to face. This is the boss at the bottom of the Well. Next you draw the top four Well cards and place them orthogonally next to the Master card. Last you discard three cards from the Well deck. 
There are two characters to play, Valora and Roland. Volora is a bow-wielding archer and Roland is a dwarven magic user. Each player chooses who they will play, takes that character’s Seeker card and lantern card. Also you take their player deck, shuffle it, draw cards based on the number of players and set the health tracker to ten. 
On your turn you must try to resolve one of the four cards adjacent to the Master. Most of these cards are challenges but some are events. Event cards will instruct you to perform specific actions. You might add or remove progress tokens from other cards or gain health. 
Challenge cards have a number in the top right and are a specific color based on their type, combat, obstacle, or puzzle. The number represents the difficulty or number of progress tokens required to beat the challenge. After choosing the challenge you wish to resolve, you may play a card from your hand that matches the color of the challenge. Some cards are multi-colored and white matches everything. Next your teammate may boost your result. They may play up to two cards using the bottom text to add to your progress. The boost section has a color and again must match the color of the challenge. If you are playing solo, you may boost your own actions. Then you gather the four dice and roll them. Any results that match the color of the challenge or are white add to your progress. You compare your total progress and any previously on the card. If that equals or exceeds the difficulty you discard it and reap the reward on it. Often the reward is discarding cards from the Well. There is also a penalty if you fail to overcome the challenge. This might be loss of health, discarding cards, or returning cards to the Well.
You start the game with a lantern card which is very powerful but inactive to begin with. Some rewards and skill cards allow you to activate it for use later. It is played in place of your skill card and is turned face down afterward.
When you are ready at the start of any turn you may discard your hand and redraw up to your hand limit. But when you do this you also take an exhaustion card. These cards are always bad and some might lose you the game if certain criteria are met. They remain in play until another card or effect lets you discard them. At that point they are shuffled back into the deck.
Play continues alternating between players until you are required to add a card from the Well but it is empty. It is time to face the Master. You flip the Master faceup, remove any cards adjacent to them, and add the four gauntlet cards. Defeating gauntlets allows you to flip them over which makes Callous vulnerable to their matching colored attacks going forward. With none of the gauntlets flipped he is invulnerable.
Defeating the Master is similar to overcoming other challenges but you won’t always have consequences for failing. Failure only results in negative consequences if you roll a black result on the white/black die. Get enough progress tokens on Callous and you win. Drop to zero health or meet a revealed lose condition and you lose.
<h2>Quick Review of Kinfire Delve Callous’ Lab:</h2>
Callous’ Lab is the latest installment in the Kinfire Delve series. All three games released play similarly, but feature different Seekers and Masters. They may be played solo, with two players or if you own more than one set, up to four players. I have only played this game from the series.
The components for this game are very nice. The artwork is great and everything looks top-notch. The cards are thick and durable and even the card backs look high end with gold foil. The box has a decent insert but it is a bit tight. The rules are well written and have examples. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PD1mO8_NFg" rel="noopener nofollow " target="_blank">Here is a video that explains how to play as well.</a>
Kinfire Delve is a streamlined, tactically focused card game. You need to work with the cards you have to make the best of the challenges you face. This can be difficult if your hand doesn’t match any of the face up challenges. But this is rare and most often you can take on a challenge even if it means only making progress without removing it. Then dealing with the consequences.
This game features two unique characters with different play styles. The two new characters, Roland Wordforger and Valora Helmsman, offer unique abilities that encourage strategic cooperation. Roland can boost card draws for teammates, aiding in fatigue management, while Valora’s skills allow her to apply progress to challenges she isn’t currently tackling, setting up future successes.
I also like the replay value of Callous’ Lab. The Well is made up of 57 challenge cards. This design ensures that each time you play your experience is unique, with varying combinations of challenges and rewards.
Another nice thing is the size of this game. It is compact and easy to carry. You can throw it into a backpack or suitcase without worrying about damage, lost pieces, or taking up too much space.
If you’re looking for a replayable co-op game that won’t clutter your shelf or your luggage, <a href="https://amzn.to/42Nto1W" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored " target="_blank">pick Kinfire Delve Callous’ Lab up</a>. If you have and enjoy the other games in this series, you will like this one too.
Score and synopsis: (<a href="../../review-categories/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here for an explanation of these review categories.</a>) 
Strategy 4 out of 6 
Luck 5 out of 6 
Player Interaction 6 of 6 
Replay Value 5 out of 6 
Complexity 3 out of 6 
Fun 4 out of 6 
Overall 4 out of 6]]></content:encoded>
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<title>D&D 2024 Monster Manual Review</title>
<link>https://www.play-board-games.com/dnd-2024-monster-manual-review/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=dnd-2024-monster-manual-review</link>
<comments>https://www.play-board-games.com/dnd-2024-monster-manual-review/#respond</comments>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason C]]></dc:creator>
<pubDate>Mon, 07 Apr 2025 04:08:07 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[RPG Review]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[DnD]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dungeons and Dragons]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[RPG]]></category>
<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.play-board-games.com/?p=7830</guid>
<description><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/dnd-2024-monster-manual-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="DnD 2024 Monster Manual" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" />The 2024 Monster Manual is the third and final core rulebook updated for Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition. As you might expect it has a bunch of monsters. It is similar to the Monster Manual from 2014, but there are differences. Some changes are to make monsters easier to use and others are to keep things in step with the 2024 update.]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[<img width="150" height="150" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/dnd-2024-monster-manual-150x150.jpg" class="webfeedsFeaturedVisual wp-post-image" alt="DnD 2024 Monster Manual" style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" link_thumbnail="" decoding="async" loading="lazy" /><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/dnd-2024-monster-manual.jpg" alt="DnD 2024 Monster Manual" width="278" height="350" class="alignright size-full wp-image-7832" srcset="https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/dnd-2024-monster-manual.jpg 278w, https://www.play-board-games.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/dnd-2024-monster-manual-238x300.jpg 238w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 278px) 100vw, 278px" />The 2024 Monster Manual is the third and final core rulebook updated for Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition. As you might expect it has a bunch of monsters. It is similar to the Monster Manual from 2014, but there are differences. Some changes are to make monsters easier to use and others are to keep things in step with the 2024 update.

<h2>DnD 2024 Monster Manual Description:</h2>
The 2024 Monster Manual has over 500 monsters in it. Most are the same but updated from earlier editions, some are renamed, and others new. After the table of contents, the book starts with an overview and sample monster stat block. Then a section that tells you what all the different stats, headers, and sections mean.
There are a handful of changes to every monster’s listing. First you will notice a one line description of the monster under its name. For example, the Gargoyle’s is “Sculpted Sentinel Hidden in Plain Sight”. Below that it lists their habitat and treasure they might have. Another change is the monster’s initiative is near the top of the stat block. Ability scores are listed as before but now show the modifier and save next to them. In general the descriptions, actions, and traits have been simplified and are less wordy.
Appendix A has animal stats, making it easy for druids that shapeshift. Appendix B has different listings of monsters. First is a list of monsters that were converted or replaced from the 2014 5th edition Monster Manual. It also lists monsters by their habitat in ascending CR. Then there is a list sectioned by creature type and another by CR.
<h2>Quick Review of the D&D 2024 Monster Manual:</h2>
The updated 2024 Monster Manual is easier to use, has great art, and is compatible with the other 2024 core rulebooks. There are lots of things to like about it and a few things that could still be improved. 
One of my favorite additions is the one line description of the monster. It can help you gain a quick understanding of the monster and its MO. The monsters are more challenging and deadly, but simpler to run than their 2014 counterparts.
Another positive change impacts martial characters. Many monsters in the 2014 Monster Manual had resistance to bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing damage from non-magical weapons. There is much less of it in the updated book. To compensate, monsters have more hit points and sometimes higher AC.
Some things are missing. Like the listings in Appendix B of monsters by Type, Group and CR not giving page numbers. It would have been easy to add these and there is space for them. While not a huge deal it keeps you from having to flip to the table of contents as often.
There is also no guide to make your own monsters. Nothing. All we got was the info in the Dungeon Master’s Guide. DMs, especially newer ones, that want to homebrew monsters have little direction for creating their own unique monsters.
This book also contains less lore than the previous edition. But you might find that as an opportunity to create your own or be annoyed there is less official information on a monster. Again this is probably something that would help newer DMs. Experienced ones already know lore or might make up their own.
If you have purchased the other updated core rulebooks then picking up the <a href="https://amzn.to/3FVGiDf" rel="noopener nofollow sponsored " target="_blank">2024 Monster Manual</a> is a no brainer. PCs are more powerful and require the monsters to keep pace. If you didn’t buy the updated <a href="https://www.play-board-games.com/dd-2024-dungeon-masters-guide-review/" title="D&D 2024 Dungeon Master’s Guide Review">Dungeon Master’s Guide</a> or <a href="https://www.play-board-games.com/dnd-2024-players-handbook-review/" title="D&D 2024 Player’s Handbook Review">Player’s Handbook</a>, I am not sure just buying this makes a lot of sense.]]></content:encoded>
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