GamerReborn

Let me start by saying, while I don’t hate this game, I have yet to meet its equal in terms of player punishment. The summation of its game play goes something like this. One to two players take on the role of a ravening horde of zombies bent on eating human civilization out of existence. The rest of the players will be the plucky and familiar heroes from countless zombie flicks, such as the cheerleader, and the jock. One side needs to kill a certain number of living players, while tho other needs to survive long enough to make the board a safer place to live.

The game itself is comical, and does inspire the same sense of helplessness that a zombie movie is meant to invoke. However, In my experience the game takes it a little too far and slants the odds overwhelmingly in the zombies players favor. I have not been part of a game in which the living came out on top. Don’t get me wrong, I love a challenging game. Anyone who has ever played Outbreak will know it’s the most fun you can have while loosing. But in this instance, the virulent outbreak is put in the hands of a player, which I think ruins the mood of the game. Had the mechanics simply controlled the actions of the zombies in a manner similar to the Death Angel card game,that being a simple mechanic on how the zombies will interact with the set up, I think Last Night on Earth would be a vastly more satisfying experience.

As far as components go, everything is well designed. The cards in this game don’t see enough shuffling or similar rough handling to require card protectors. Each player has a customized playing piece depending on the role they received. And as far as the zombies go, there are plenty of them, as there should be.

Replay wise, there are plenty of scenarios with which to game. I however, found that after realizing the inevitable out come is most likely complete zombie domination, I was less excited to play each time. This wasn’t a case of poor player performance, as those I play with are all veteran board gamers. It simply stems from the fact that those who played the zombies tended to enjoy themselves, while those that played the living, tended to not.

My recommendation? If zombie subculture is your thing, than this game is a must have. It holds true to everything you know about how a zombie invasion will go down. If you are simply a board gamer looking for a new game, there are better buys out there for you.

Dungeon Lords is a fun and humorous look into the life of a villainous mastermind. The object of the game is to compete against other Dungeon Lords over resources in order to build a strong and defensible dungeon while fending off roving heroes who will come to loot it for treasure. I don’t think any game ever created has such an exciting description!

The game play is rather complicated, and learning the rules can be somewhat of a challenge. If you know someone who is already familiar with the rules it may be easier to have them teach your through game play, rather than trying to decipher it by reading the rule book. If this isn’t the case, fighting your way through your first few games to get the hang of it is still worth it with Dungeon Lords, because once you know how, playing is very addicting.

Mechanics wise, the game is very challenging. While you are competing against your fellow players for victory, the game itself puts the screws to the players by taxing their resources at every step. You’ll need to be thinking several turns in advance in order to be successful as a Dungeon Lord. The rules actually provide a simplified version to play for your first few games that basically take away a few of the mechanics that are designed to specifically hinder the players in their quest for glory. I highly suggest using this rule set when playing for the first time, as it will make a significant difference in enjoyability. Often times, my group will still play using the simplified rules, as it makes for a faster and more light hearted game.

As far as components go, you get a lot of bang for your buck with Dungeon Lords. Each of up to four players has their own personal game board with which to construct their dungeon. The central board holds a multitude of pieces from food and gold, to imps you’ll force into labor in your mines. Even in a 4 player game, I’ve never experienced a scenario where we ever came even close to running out of any resource token. All the components are well constructed and, even though my copy sees frequent use,it shows no signs of wear.

My only real complaint is, as I stated earlier in the review, the complexity of the rules. This is a true “boardgamers” game. But if you are not someone who has vast experience with complicated rule systems, I still feel this is a game worth trying. Many of the rules in this game, such as events and taxes, can be completely removed without destroying the game play. My suggestion is to play around with the rules and see how you feel. Keep what you like, and trim away the parts the “feel” wrong to you. This game is too much fun to pass up because of a comprehensive and challenging set of rules.

Overall, a great buy for any board gaming enthusiast. Take your time a learning, and you”ll be a Dungeon Lord in no time!

This is a hard product to review. As far as re playability, it is very dependent on the person using the book. The Dungeon Master is responsible for using his imagination to create an immersive and enjoyable role playing experience. Someone with a good enough imagination would not even need this book. It does little in the way of expanding the rule set of D&D and for the most part contains a lot of fluff and suggestions. As was states by a previous reviewer, the current edition is much less useful than previous editions.

As a whole D&D is the introduction most people receive to pen and paper role playing games. But with an abundance of better but less well know RPG’s on the market, many soon gravitate away from the mass market mentality of D&D. With a good group of friends and someone who is a decent storyteller any RPG can be fun. I feel you can simply get more from your money elsewhere.

I’m not a huge fan of any of the Talisman expansions as I feel they do little to improve the base game, but of them all I like this one the least. Reaper not only adds little, I feel it detracts from the game as a whole. The character of Death, I’m sure was meant to add an additional element of randomness to the game, but instead just makes a long game run even longer. With the ability to outright kill a player, it can make for a truly long, boring, and joyless game. The few other additions this expansion does add, don’t improve upon or bolster any flaws the base set already had. In my opinion, save your money for something more fun.

If you are into war gaming, you probably hear of Flames of War. It is a collectable game, where you build a force from one of the many book supplements published to support the game, and face off against an opponent who has done the same.

Like most miniature games, there can be a considerably investment associated with playing both in time and money. That being said, it can be a very rewarding hobby. As war games go, this one has one of the largest model ranges available. At 15mm scale they are relatively easy to paint and assemble, as detail is hard to discern on such a small miniature. Though if desired they can be painted and modeled with considerable detail with the appropriate time investment.

This really is a hobby where you get out what you put in. Some people collect so they can have an incredibly painted army, others for the sheer joy of the game. I suggest playing Flames of War for the other players. I have never met a more friendly and helpful group of war gamers that those that have chosen this game.

The rules are complex, and very elaborate. I wouldn’t be dissuaded by this, as the community will help you learn through play. Spend some time with a rulebook, and browse their model range before making any purchases. Good luck, and have fun with this great game.

While not my most favorite board game, risk is probably where I got my start when it comes to my current love of war themed strategy games. You don’t get much more simple than Risk. Players take turns attacking each other in a bid for global domination. Battle is the outcome of the roll of the dice, and despite some tactical choices relies heavily on luck.

The production quality of the most recent games has been decent, though nothing overly special. The game is easy to learn, and fun to play if not played too often. Great for a bored day when you’re feeling nostalgic.

While not the most in depth game in the world, Uno is a classic and it’s undeniably fun. While many people have already pointed out that this is a great game to play with kids, It also makes a good party game if nothing else is at hand. Add some adult beverages and you can have an enjoyable night on your hands.

As stated above, I am completely biased when it comes to Warhammer 40k. I’ve played it for nearly 20 years now and withe very few exceptions, I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. This is a hobby you’ll need to invest time and money into. If that’s what your looking for then this could be a great match. This box set is definitely a great starting point if you are interested in either Orks of Space Marines. The figures are of high quality, and the mini rule book and templates are invaluable. Best recommendation is to find a friend who is interested in the opposing faction, each buy the set, and trade each other the models.

This is perhaps the simplest game on the face of the planet. It fast and fun, and anyone can learn it. each player takes a turn drawing a green apple card which had word on it such a desirable. Then each other player takes a turn secretly playing a red apple card that has person, place, event, or concept written on it with a brief description. Once each player has played their red apple card, the person who played the green apple card reviews them all and decides which one best meets their understanding of the word on their card.

It’s a very silly and entertaining party game for all ages. If you’ve purchased the apple crate edition, you’ll get a nice wooden storage container as well as a few blank cards to make your own with. This should be in everyone’s collection!

This board game is, for all intents and purposes, a stripped down version of Dungeons and Dragons 4th Edition. The basic mechanics are the same as what you would see in the Role Playing game, but removes the opportunity to do any role playing. The replay value is fairly high as it comes with a substantial amount of missions, but most mission are simply a variation on the same theme…. combat. My suggestion is play the role playing game if you want a better sense of adventure. If you are short on time and want some simple hack and slash fun, this is for you.

I was rather underwhelmed with this iteration of Talisman. The board is nicely done, and you receive a fair bit of components, but from there my praise is rather thin. While not overly complicated the game does take some getting used to. This however seems rather tedious, as the game play itself is not very exciting.

You begin by randomly selecting a character to play, but the characters themselves are very unbalanced. Some have amazing abilities and high stats while others are just mediocre. Even using the variant rule where you get to choose between three randomly selected characters often results in a lopsided gaming experience.

Once everyone has their character and the set up is complete, game play becomes very repetitive. Roll the die, move, draw a card. There may be a fight, or you may find some treasure, but this looses it’s appeal after the first few hundred times. The ultimate goal is to move to the center of the board along three separate rings of board space, each sightly more challenging than the last. the problem is the difficulty curve starts out on hard. The monsters you fight in the outer, easy, ring are the same as you’ll face as you progress inward. So starting right off you may draw nothing but unbeatable creatures, while you’re opponent does nothing but pick up loot.

This game relies little on strategy and heavily on luck. The game does create some fun moments, but they are few and far between. If there are no other board games around, it’s worth a go, but otherwise I’d make a different selection.

Munchkin is a game you can’t take too seriously. It is a great game when you want to relax with a few friends and drink a few (or more) beers. It’s zany take on power gamers is hilarious, and their is a joke on every card. Definitely a good lighthearted basic card game.

Re playability on this on is high. With a multitude of expansions and spin offs there is something for everyone. Like vampires and werewolves? Get Munchkin Bites. Ninja’s and Aliens more your thing? Try Munchkin Fu. All the games can be mixed and match, and being that the theme is breaking a game, you really can’t go wrong.

The game-play mechanics are very simple and easy to learn or explain. This would even be a great game to play with your children, as monsters such as the floating nose, will keep them in stitches. This is a must have for any fan of role-playing games or simply people who like fun.

I can’t say enough good things about the newest edition of Space Hulk. The production quality is amazing on all the game components. So much so, that the figures are often used by Warhammer 40k players in their tabletop armies. I have heard some complaints as to the need to assemble the figs, but personally I view this as a minor inconvenience. You’ll only ever have to do it once.

With all the variant missions available the re playability is high. The detail put into the back story is also remarkable, allowing you to become attached to specific characters. Great artwork also helps put a pretty face on this already remarkable game.

It may take a little bit to get used to the rules on this one, but overall it’s not that bad. Play through a few times and you’ll get it. My recommendation is grab a few friends and give this one a go.

This is a fast paced and fun card based game centered around the world of Warhammer 40k. If you are already a fan of the 40k universe, or are familiar with the Space Hulk board game, than this is right up your ally.

As far as cooperative games go, I really enjoy this one. The rules are straight forward, controlling the enemies movements and actions is simple, and there are few if any complications that arise during game play. While the level of strategy required is only moderate, it still requires a bit of thought. A great game to play with buddies while relaxing with a few drinks.

AEG has Expanded their popular collectable card game into the realm of board gaming. While it is true, that you use a deck of L5R cards to play, the game comes with 4 ready to play decks, and you can play indefinitely without adding a single card. If you are already familiar with the CCG, you’ll pick up War of Honor easily, as there are a few minor, though game altering, changes. If you are new to the world of L5R altogether, it may take a bit to learn the card mechanics, but over all it isn’t horrible.

The game has significant expansion possibilities, as well as cross over value with the CCG. The game play tends to be fast paced, and engaging. It is especially fun with more than 2 players as the dynamic changes substantially. Give this game a try.

Let me start by saying, This game is an absolute blast. Each player randomly gets assigned on of 5 roles (each with their own special ability) and you work together to rid the world of deadly diseases. The game is merciless on it’s players, often resulting in a loss just as you think you’ve gotten things under control. That may not sound fun, but inexplicably, it is! Give this game a shot and I think you’ll have a hard time putting it away.

I will admit, though the rules for 7 Wonders are relatively simple by board game standards, the first few times my friends and I played it we were very confused. The rule book has clunky wording in several spots, but if you play through a few games, you’ll pick it up quickly.

This is a “fun for all” type game. You could bring this to a party, and with relative ease have non gamers playing in no time. There is a fair bit of stagey to be had, and the game retains a good bit of replay value. Overall a good game to add to a collection.

As states in the title, foe more information see my A&A Europe 1940 review. Otherwise read on.

The European Theater has always been my personal favorite, however, Axis and Allies Pacific 1940 has made the Pacific Theater a tactical playground. While I rarely play this as it’s stand alone version, it can be a fun game all on it’s own. If you are a fan of the island hopping war campaign during WWII this is the game for you.

I prefer playing this in conjunction with its sister game, making for one truly huge board game. With both set up, they will take over most any kitchen table. The board and pieces are of the same high quality as Europe 1940, and playtime for the stand alone version is roughly the same. If both are played together, you should plan on setting aside the day. Still, a great buy for war enthusiasts.

Let me start by saying,this is by far one of my favorite games of all time. Are there better military/strategy boardgames available on the market currently? Sure. But this game has a certain nostalgia factor that’s hard to overcome. While it’s seen many iterations, this is very close to the original. It focuses only on the European Theater of WWII but the game mechanics are very similar to the 1980’s version.

Axis and Allies definitely has a steep learning curve, but with practice the rules will come more easily. My biggest com plaint is the length of time needed for set up. Game play as well can be very lengthy. This board game is meant to consume the better part of an afternoon/evening. Only play if you have a block of time to set aside or the ability to safely leave the board set up until you can renew your game.

On the plus side, the production quality is excellent. The board is large, and it needs to be as the pieces tend to get crowded. The addition of national goals adds a deeper element to the strategy of the game, allowing for short term personal achievements. With the right group of friends this game is extremely fun.

As with the base Ascension game, this expansion is really well done and fun for everyone. It adds a new mechanic that gives the game a bit more random flavoring. Perhaps the best part is the expansion can be used as a stand alone two player version, or if added to the base set, it increases the max number of players to 6. Overall a great buy.

I must say, it’s rare that I find a game that both satisfies my competitive nature as collectable card game player, but is also simple and enjoyable enough for non card gamers. I have introduced this game to many people, ranging from people who’s only concept of a game is monopoly, to friends I compete with at CCGs like Legend of the Five Rings. I have yet to receive a poor reaction. In fact in almost every case, I’ve been asked to return so they can play again.

I’ve seen some criticize the game for lacking in strategy,but I find there is a significant level of depth to this game. While it is true that it becomes harder to plan your turn ahead with as the number of players grow, there is substantial amount of tactical decisions that need to be made based not only on your own maneuvering, but those of your opponents as well.

All in all I would recommend this game to people of all ages and skill levels. It is fun, fast paced and has something for everyone.