Raids (2018) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Raids is a board game released in 2018 by IELLO. Designed by Matthew Dunstan and Brett J. Gilbert, the game is set in a medieval nautical theme, where players take on the role of Viking captains navigating the seas to pillage villages and collect treasure. The game features set collection and track movement mechanics, making it a strategic and engaging gameplay experience for 2 to 4 players.

Game Components of Raids

4 Longships: One for each player.

40 Viking meeples: Used for fighting and other game actions.

20 Coins: Utilized within the game’s economy.

Various other components: Including cards and boards that facilitate gameplay and theme.

How To Setup Raids

Setting up Raids involves each player selecting a longship and starting with a set of Viking meeples and coins. The game board is placed in the middle, and various location cards and resources are distributed according to the game’s rules. Each player prepares their crew and resources for the upcoming voyages.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Auction, set collection, rondel movement.

Mechanics:

Auction: Players bid on locations to visit or contest.

Rondel Movement: Players move a marker around a circular track to choose actions.

Combat: Involves spending Viking meeples to attack or defend locations.

Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most Glory points over four separate Voyages. Players achieve this by visiting locations, winning combats, and managing their resources efficiently.

Player Experience

In **Raids**, players embark on voyages, managing their Viking crews and resources. The game is characterized by its mix of strategic planning and tactical combat. Players must balance the cost of attacking and defending locations, as fighting is costly, requiring the attacker to spend one Viking meeple and the defender to spend two. This dynamic creates tension and angst as players vie for control of valuable locations.

Pros

Engaging Theme: The Viking setting adds a rich and immersive layer to the game.

Strategic Depth: Combines auction, set collection, and rondel movement for a complex yet rewarding experience.

Replayability: Multiple voyages and variable setup ensure high replayability.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game’s mechanics can be overwhelming for new players.

Resource Management: Managing Viking meeples and coins can be challenging and requires careful planning.

Combat Costs: The cost of combat can be prohibitive, potentially limiting aggressive strategies.

Personal Thoughts on Raids

**Raids** is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games with a strong thematic presence. It is suited for those familiar with more complex board games, particularly those who appreciate the combination of auction mechanics, resource management, and tactical combat. New players may find the rules and gameplay mechanics daunting, but the game’s depth and replayability make it a rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time to learn it.

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