| | | | | | | | | |

Crypt (2018) Board Game

ByMichail

Crypt is a card game released in 2018 and designed by Jeff Chin. It is a medieval and renaissance themed game that incorporates elements of auction/bidding, dice rolling, set collection, and worker placement. The game can be played by 1 to 4 players, with a recommended age of 14 and up.

Game Components of Crypt

  • Cards
  • Dice
  • Player boards
  • Tokens

    • How To Setup Crypt

  • Shuffle the cards and place them in the center of the table.
  • Give each player a player board and tokens.
  • Roll the dice to determine the starting player.

    • Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

    In Crypt, players take on the role of treasure hunters trying to collect the most valuable loot from a crypt. Players use dice workers to bid on different cards that represent loot items. The game involves strategic decision making, as players must carefully allocate their resources to win the most valuable cards.

    The objective of the game is to collect the most valuable loot by the end of the game. Players must use their dice workers efficiently and outmaneuver their opponents to secure the best cards.

    Player Experience

    #

    Pros:

  • Engaging gameplay that combines various mechanics
  • Strategic decision making and player interaction
  • Quick gameplay with a runtime of 20-35 minutes

    • #

    Cons:

  • Limited player count (1-4 players)
  • Some players may find the auction/bidding aspect too luck-dependent

    • Personal Thoughts on Crypt

    Crypt is a well-designed game that offers a unique blend of mechanics in a medieval setting. The components are of good quality, and the artwork adds to the thematic experience. The game is reasonably priced and can be found both new and used, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

    While Crypt may not be for everyone, it is worth trying for fans of card games with a strategic element. Players who enjoy games like worker placement and set collection will likely appreciate what Crypt has to offer. However, those who prefer games with higher player counts or more direct player interaction may want to skip this one.

    Overall, Crypt is a solid choice for players looking for a relatively quick and engaging game with a medieval theme. It offers a good balance of strategy and luck, making it a fun and challenging experience for those who enjoy the genre.

    Game Components of Crypt

  • Dice: Representing Servant dice used for bidding.
  • Treasure Cards: Face-up and face-down cards with different values and types.
  • Collector Cards: 2-sided cards with varying bonuses and goals.
  • Rule Book: Detailed instructions including normal, solo, and variant rules.
  • Crypt Tiles: For setup and player count adjustments, included with the Book of Variants.
  • Modular Board: Included with the Book of Variants for different player counts.

    How To Setup Crypt

    To set up Crypt, players first shuffle the treasure deck and lay out a set of cards based on the player count, with some cards face-up and others face-down. Each player receives a set of Servant dice. Collector Cards are positioned to define the goals and bonuses for the game. The Crypt Tiles can be used to aid in setup for different player counts.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Auction/Bidding: Players bid on treasures using their Servant dice.
  • Dice Rolling: Players must roll their dice after bidding to avoid exhausting their Servants.
  • Set Collection: Collecting sets of treasures to meet Collector Card goals.
  • Push-Your-Luck: Balancing high bids against the risk of losing dice.
  • Game Objective: The player with the most valuable collection of treasures, including bonus points from Collector Cards, wins the game.

    Player Experience

    In Crypt, players take turns sending their Servant dice into the royal crypt to bid on treasures. The game is competitive for 2-4 players, with a solo mode featuring an automated “Ghost” player. Each round, players must strategize between bidding high to secure valuable treasures and the risk of losing their dice if they fail to meet the rolled values. The game is light and quick, lasting between 20-35 minutes.

    Pros

  • Light and Quick Gameplay: Easy to learn and play in under 35 minutes.
  • Variety in Collector Cards: 2-sided cards offer different combinations and dynamics.
  • Push-Your-Luck Excitement: Adds an element of risk and strategy.
  • Solo Mode: Includes an automated player for solo play.
  • Modular Board and Variants: Offers flexibility for different player counts and gameplay modes.

    Cons

  • Luck Factor: Dice rolls can significantly impact success, especially in solo mode.
  • Simple Scoring System: Some players may find the scoring mechanism a bit convoluted.
  • Limited Depth: The game is light and may not appeal to players seeking complex strategies.

    Personal Thoughts on Crypt

    Crypt is an excellent choice for players looking for a quick, fun, and light set collection game with engaging mechanics. It is particularly suitable for families, casual gamers, and those who enjoy dice games with a bit of risk and strategy. The game’s short playtime and easy setup make it a great addition to any game night or as a filler game between more complex titles.

    We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. 

    • 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

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *