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Dark Eden (1997) Board Game

ByMichail

Dark Eden is a board game released in 1997 by Target Games. Designed by Bryan Winter, this game is set in a dark and dystopian universe where players take on the roles of factions fighting for control over the last remaining resources on a post-apocalyptic Earth. With stunning artwork by Peter Bergting, Simon Bisley, Paul Bonner, and several other talented artists, Dark Eden immerses players in a world of horror, science fiction, and intense territorial battles.

Game Components of Dark Eden

  • 60-card starter decks**
  • 15-card booster packs**
  • Expansion sets:** Genesis and Exodus (though these were never released).

    How To Setup Dark Eden

    To set up Dark Eden, each player begins with a Commander card in their Dominion, which includes their home base and production facilities. Players also have Borderlands for defense, a Warband for attacks, Gold Reserves for resources, a Draw Pile, a Discard Pile, and an Annihilated Pile. The game starts with only the Commander card in play, and players add other cards as the game progresses.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Category:** Collectible Card Game
  • Designer:** Bryan Winter
  • Number of Players:** 2-4
  • Playing Time:** Approximately 30 minutes
  • Mechanics:** Card playing, resource management, and combat
  • Objective:** To raze opponents’ Establishments to gain Victory Points (VPs). The first player to reach 50 VPs wins the game.

    Player Experience

    In Dark Eden, players take on the role of Commanders on a forsaken Earth, managing their Dominion and resources to fend off invading hordes and attack other players. The game involves strategic card play, resource management, and combat, making it engaging and challenging. The setting, derived from the Mutant Chronicles universe, adds a rich layer of lore and context to the gameplay.

    Pros

  • Strategic Depth:** Requires careful planning and resource management.
  • Engaging Setting:** Set in a post-apocalyptic universe, adding depth to the gameplay.
  • Variety of Actions:** Includes defense, attacks, and resource management.
  • Short Playtime:** Games last approximately 30 minutes.

    Cons

  • Limited Availability:** The game is out of print.
  • Unreleased Expansions:** Planned expansion sets were never released.
  • Complex Rules:** May require some time to learn for new players.

    Personal Thoughts on Dark Eden

    Dark Eden is ideal for fans of collectible card games and the Mutant Chronicles universe. It offers a blend of strategy and resource management that will appeal to players who enjoy competitive games. However, due to its out-of-print status and the lack of released expansions, it may be challenging to find and expand upon. Despite this, for those who can acquire it, Dark Eden provides a unique and engaging gaming experience.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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