Nefarious (2011) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Nefarious is a card game released in 2011, designed by Donald X. Vaccarino, known for creating the popular game Dominion. The game is published by Ascora Games and features a unique blend of humor and science fiction themes. With a runtime of 30-45 minutes and suitable for players aged 8 and above, Nefarious offers a quick and engaging gameplay experience for 2-6 players.

Game Components of Nefarious

Nefarious game board

Player mats

Action cards

Invention cards

Money tokens

Upgrade cards

Villain tokens

How To Setup Nefarious

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Each player selects a player mat and places it in front of them.

Shuffle the action cards and place them face down on the designated area of the game board.

Shuffle the invention cards and place them face down on the designated area of the game board.

Distribute starting money tokens to each player.

Each player receives a set of villain tokens.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Nefarious, players take on the role of mad scientists competing to be the most nefarious villain by inventing world-altering devices. Players use their action cards to perform different actions such as gaining money, drawing cards, or playing inventions. The objective is to gather resources, build inventions, and use them to gain victory points. The player with the most victory points at the end of the game wins.

Player Experience

Pros

Quick gameplay with simple rules, suitable for casual players.

Humorous theme and engaging artwork make the game enjoyable.

Strategic depth in card management and action selection.

Cons

Limited replay value due to repetitive gameplay mechanics.

Lack of direct player interaction may lead to less engaging gameplay for some.

Personal Thoughts on Nefarious

Nefarious offers a fun and light-hearted gaming experience with its quirky theme and easy-to-learn mechanics. While the game may lack depth for more experienced gamers, it serves as a great entry-level game for families and casual players. The build quality of the components is decent, and the game’s pricing is reasonable for the value it provides. While there are alternatives and similar games in the market, Nefarious stands out with its unique blend of humor and strategy. Overall, Nefarious is worth your time if you enjoy card games with a twist and are looking for a light-hearted gaming experience. It is recommended for families, casual gamers, and those looking for a quick and entertaining game night option.

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