Random Encounter: Plains of the Troll King (2016) Board Game

Random Encounter: Plains of the Troll King is a card game released in in 2016. Designed by Jamie Keddie and featuring artwork by IDW Games and Joyride Games, this game takes players on a journey through the plains of the Troll King, where they must strategically navigate encounters with various creatures.

Game Components of Random Encounter: Plains of the Troll King

45 Random Encounter cards

4 Boss cards

4 Key cards

5 mottled green Loot dice

Rulebook

Reference card

54 cards in total, sized 63.5 x 88mm.

How To Setup Random Encounter: Plains of the Troll King

To set up the game, each player starts by placing their Loot die so that the one pip faces up. The 45 Random Encounter cards are then shuffled and dealt out until each player has nine cards. These cards must be built into five different face-down encounters. Players also decide which random encounter protects their Loot die. In multiplayer, the Boss and Key cards are not used during the standard game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Number of Players: 1-5

Playing Time: 15-20 minutes

Age: 10+

Game Mechanics:
– Building encounters with creature cards
– Tactical combat and bluffing
– Using Level Star cards (Green, Blue, Red, Yellow) to determine battle outcomes
– Winning battles to gain Loot dice pips
– Stealing Loot from opponents

Objective: Be the first player to accumulate six pips on their Loot die by winning battles or stealing from other players.

Player Experience

Playing **Random Encounter: Plains of the Troll King** involves strategic planning and a touch of luck. The game is visually appealing with its 8-bit pixel art style, reminiscent of Minecraft, which will delight fans of retro video games. The gameplay is fast-paced, with most games lasting only one or two rounds. Players must carefully plan their encounters and occasionally use subterfuge to outmaneuver their opponents. The game’s short duration and simple rules make it accessible, but the limited number of strategic moments can make it feel somewhat repetitive.

Pros

Visual Appeal: Pixel art style that will appeal to fans of retro video games.

Simple to Learn: Easy rules and quick setup time.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and occasional bluffing.

Versatile: Supports solo and multiplayer modes.

Cons

Limited Strategic Moments: Games are typically short, with only one or two rounds, limiting the number of strategic decisions.

Repetitive: The game can feel repetitive due to the short game length and limited complexity.

Luck Factor: The outcome of battles can be heavily influenced by the cards drawn and the Level Star mechanics.

Personal Thoughts on Random Encounter: Plains of the Troll King

**Random Encounter: Plains of the Troll King** is ideal for those who enjoy light, tactical card games with a touch of strategy and bluffing. It’s a great option for families or casual gamers looking for a quick and fun experience. However, players seeking more complex and lengthy games might find it too simplistic. The game’s unique pixel art style and easy-to-learn mechanics make it a charming addition to any board game collection, especially for fans of retro aesthetics.

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