World of Draghan: Once Upon a Dragon (2019) Board Game

World of Draghan: Once Upon a Dragon is a fantasy adventure card game designed by Ally Steven Severi and released in in 2019. The game takes players on a journey through the mythical world of Draghan, where they must work together to defeat a powerful dragon threatening the land. With cooperative gameplay and variable player powers, World of Draghan offers a unique and engaging experience for 1-4 players.

Game Components of World of Draghan: Once Upon a Dragon

Cards: Character cards, Marketplace cards, Draghan and Shadow Realm Location cards, and Draghan and Shadow Realm Encounter cards.

Cardboard Coins: Used as currency and other game elements.

Quality Stock: Cards have a nice finish, and the coins are made of heavy card stock, well-crafted and easy to punch out.

How To Setup World of Draghan: Once Upon a Dragon

Setup involves separating and shuffling the different decks of cards: Characters, Marketplace, Draghan and Shadow Realm Locations, and Draghan and Shadow Realm Encounters. Each player selects a Character card and starts with an item from the Marketplace. A Character is assigned as the active character to begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Cooperative Game: Players work together.

Team-Based Game: Players form a team of heroes.

Variable Player Powers: Each character has unique abilities.

Objective

Defeat the dragon in the Shadow Realm before losing all characters or drawing the last Shadow Realm Location without encountering the dragon.

Each round consists of 7 phases: Healing, Visit a Location, Search Location and Fight Monsters, Check the Results, Share Equipment, Healing, and Check Equipment.

Player Experience

Players take on the roles of heroes aiming to protect the realm of Draghan from dragons. The game features quick setup and play, with a fast reset for replay. The experience is highly engaging, especially for those who enjoy cooperative gameplay and variable player powers. The game is suitable for players aged 8 and above.

Pros

Quick Setup and Play: Easy to start and reset for multiple plays.

Cooperative Fun: Encourages teamwork and strategy.

Variable Player Powers: Adds depth and replayability.

High-Quality Components: Well-made cards and cardboard coins.

Cons

Solo Play Challenges: Playing solo requires controlling multiple characters, which can be confusing and less enjoyable.

Balance Issues: Games with fewer or more players can be less balanced, with one player being nearly impossible and four players making the game too easy.

Personal Thoughts on World of Draghan: Once Upon a Dragon

This game is ideal for fans of cooperative adventures and those who enjoy fantasy themes. It is particularly suited for families or groups of friends looking for a fun, team-based experience. However, solo players may find the game less satisfying due to the need to manage multiple characters. Overall, it offers a engaging and dynamic gameplay experience, though some tweaks to balance might enhance the solo and multi-player experiences.

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