Melee & Wizard (2018) Board Game

Melee & Wizard is a board game that was released in 2018 by Steve Jackson Games. Designed by Steve Jackson himself, this game is set in a world of fantasy and adventure, where players take on the roles of warriors and wizards battling it out in epic combat.

Game Components of Melee & Wizard

Melee: Includes a rulebook, a 12″ x 22.5″ game map, 86 counters, and 3 dice.

Wizard: Adds additional rules, spells, and components such as new monsters and magic items.

How To Setup Melee & Wizard

To set up **Melee**, players create characters by allocating points between Strength (ST), Dexterity (DX), and Movement Allowance (MA). Each character starts with 8 points in ST and DX and has an additional 8 points to distribute. The game is played on a hex grid map with counters or miniatures. Players choose their characters’ weapons and equipment, which affect their attributes. The game map has four entrances to the arena, where combat takes place.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Fantasy combat board game.

Mechanics: Hex grid movement, initiative, hand-to-hand, melee, thrown, and missile weapon combat.

Objective: Engage in combat, either against other players or against various opponents like beasts or monsters. The goal is to emerge victorious or accumulate experience points to enhance character attributes.

Character Progression: Surviving characters earn experience points, which can be used to increase their ST or DX attributes.

Player Experience

Players can quickly create characters and engage in battles that can last about an hour, once familiar with the rules. The game offers a detailed and tactical combat system, using six-sided dice for resolving attacks and defenses. The system is designed to be easy to learn but challenging to master, with various non-human opponents and fantasy fighters available.

Pros

Detailed Combat System: Rules cover various types of combat in a clear and concise manner.

Character Customization: Characters can be customized with different attributes and equipment.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and opponents ensure high replayability.

Compatibility: Can be integrated with other components of The Fantasy Trip system.

Cons

Learning Curve: Initial setup and rules understanding can take some time.

Complexity: While the rules are clear, the game mechanics can be complex for new players.

Personal Thoughts on Melee & Wizard

**Melee & Wizard** are ideal for those who enjoy tactical combat and role-playing elements in a board game. These games are perfect for fans of fantasy settings and detailed game mechanics. They offer a robust and engaging system that, while taking some time to learn, provides a rich and satisfying gaming experience. These games are particularly suited for players who appreciate character development and strategic combat planning.

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