Odin’s Ravens (Second Edition) (2016) Board Game

Odin’s Ravens is a classic two-player card game that was originally released in in 2016. The second edition, released in 2016, was updated with new artwork and components. The game is based on Norse mythology and follows the story of Odin’s two ravens, Huginn and Muninn, as they race across the world to deliver messages to the gods.

Game Components of Odin’s Ravens

106 cards, including terrain and Loki cards

2 wooden raven playing pieces

U-shaped track composed of 30 randomly chosen spaces from five possible terrain types

How To Setup Odin’s Ravens

To set up the game, players begin by creating a U-shaped track using 30 spaces randomly selected from five different terrain types. Each player starts at opposite ends of this track and draws a hand of five cards from their personal deck of terrain cards. The two wooden ravens serve as the playing pieces.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: Be the first player to return to the opponent’s starting line.

Card Play: Players can play as many cards as they like from their hand to move forward, provided the space directly in front of them matches the terrain on the card.

Card Draw: After playing cards, a player draws three new cards to replenish their hand.

Loki Cards: Special cards that can be used as wild cards or to hinder the opponent.

Terrain Matching: Players can move multiple spaces if several of the same terrain type are in a row.

Player Experience

Players embody Huginn or Muninn, Odin’s avian companions, racing across a Viking world filled with various landscapes. The game is fast-paced and tactical, with a balance that ensures most games end with the losing bird only a few spaces behind. The artwork by Johan Egerkrans is a highlight, adding a new lease of life to the game. Players appreciate the clean and unique gameplay, the aesthetic polish, and the addictive nature of the game.

Pros

Fast Gameplay: Games last approximately 30 minutes.

Easy to Learn: Simple rules with no confusing gray areas.

Unique Aesthetic: Beautiful artwork and uniquely shaped cards.

Balanced Play: Most games end with players close to each other.

Addictive Nature: Encourages multiple plays in a row.

Cons

Card Draw Dependence: Players can be at the mercy of the card draw, sometimes feeling unable to make meaningful moves.

Similar Card Designs: Some players find the similar shapes and color schemes of certain terrain cards confusing.

Personal Thoughts on Odin’s Ravens

Odin’s Ravens is ideal for those looking for a quick, fun, and tactical two-player game. It’s perfect for families, casual gamers, or as a filler game between more complex games. The game’s easy setup, fast gameplay, and beautiful design make it a great addition to any board game collection. It’s particularly appealing to those who enjoy racing games with a touch of strategy and a bit of luck.

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