Sellswords (2014) Board Game

Sellswords is a two-player abstract strategy game that was released in in 2014. Designed by Cliff Kamarga and published by Hobby Base, this game is set in a world of mythology and features tile placement and open drafting mechanics. Players compete to gain control of various regions by strategically placing their tiles and outsmarting their opponent.

Game Components of Sellswords

Cards: Representing various mercenaries and actions.

Guild Cards: For drafting and building your team.

Action Cards: To influence the battlefield.

Victory Point Tokens: To track progress.

How To Setup Sellswords

To set up **Sellswords**, each player starts by drafting a guild of mercenaries using Guild Cards. This involves selecting a set of cards that will form your team. Players then prepare their decks with Action Cards, which can be used to manipulate the battlefield and sway mercenaries to their side. The objective is clear from the outset: assemble a formidable team and outmaneuver your opponent.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Drafting: Players draft Guild Cards to build their team.

Action Card Play: Use Action Cards to influence mercenaries and the battlefield.

Head-to-Head Combat: Engage in strategic battles against your opponent.

Objective: Seize victory by outmaneuvering your opponent and earning the most Victory Points.

Player Experience

Playing **Sellswords** is an intense and strategic experience. It challenges you to think critically about which mercenaries to recruit and how to use your Action Cards effectively. The game is reminiscent of the Triple Triad card game from Final Fantasy VIII, adding a layer of familiarity for fans of strategic card games. It requires a balance of short-term and long-term planning, making it engaging and demanding.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Offers complex and engaging gameplay.

High Replayability: Different card combinations ensure unique games each time.

Quick Matches: Games are typically short, making it easy to fit in a match.

Easy to Learn: Simple to understand, but challenging to master.

Cons

Luck of the Draw: Card drafting can be influenced by luck.

Steep Learning Curve for Mastery: While easy to learn, mastering the game takes time.

Limited Player Count: Best with two players, which might limit its appeal for larger groups.

Personal Thoughts on Sellswords

**Sellswords** is ideal for fans of strategic card games and those who enjoy head-to-head competitions. It’s a great addition for anyone looking to add depth and complexity to their gaming collection. The game’s balance between luck and strategy makes it accessible yet challenging, making it suitable for both casual and experienced gamers. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking games with a large player capacity or a more cooperative experience.

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