| | | | | | |

Wizards (1982) Board Game

ByMichail

Wizards is a classic board game that was released in in 1982. Designed by Coral J. F. Mosbø and published by The Avalon Hill Game Co, it falls under the adventure and fantasy categories. The game is designed for 1-6 players, with the best experience being with 3 players. With a runtime of 120-240 minutes, Wizards is recommended for players aged 12 and above.

Game Components of Wizards

  • Game Board:** A hex grid sea map.
  • Character Cards:** Wizard, Sorcerer, or Druid characters, each with four ranks.
  • Event and Task Cards:** Send players on quests, trap them, or pose other hazards.
  • Gems:** Seven gems required to win, with six needed to be collected.
  • Location Tokens:** For setting up various islands on the map.

    How To Setup Wizards

    To set up the game, players first arrange the locations of the various islands on the hex grid sea map. Each player then chooses a wizard character (Wizard, Sorcerer, or Druid) and joins a Magical Order. This initial setup is crucial for understanding the game’s layout and each player’s starting position.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

    **Game Mechanics:**

  • Character Progression:** Advance through four ranks in your chosen Order.
  • Quest Completion:** Complete Tasks for points of Knowledge, Power, and/or Perception.
  • Gem Collection:** Collect six gems from the High Wizards.
  • Event and Task Cards:** Navigate through challenges and hazards.

    **Game Objective:**

  • Join a Magical Order.
  • Acquire Tasks and complete them for points.
  • Fight the Evil Powers to keep islands accessible.
  • Advance to Rank 4 in your Order.
  • Collect six gems and pass them to the High Druid Rüktal to win.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Wizards (1982)** can be a mixed bag. The game combines elements of board games and RPGs, offering a rich fantasy setting with various character options and quests. However, some players have reported that the game can be lengthy and may not provide clear progress or a satisfying conclusion within a reasonable time frame.

    Pros

  • Rich Fantasy Setting:** Offers a detailed and immersive fantasy world.
  • RPG Elements:** Allows character progression and choice.
  • Quest System:** Engaging Tasks and Event cards add variety.
  • Replayability:** Multiple paths to victory and random events.

    Cons

  • Lengthy Gameplay:** Can take several hours to complete.
  • Complex Setup:** Initial setup can be time-consuming.
  • Execution Issues:** Some players have found the game’s execution to be disappointing despite its promising concept.
  • Outdated Mechanics:** Compared to modern games, the mechanics may feel clunky.

    Personal Thoughts on Wizards

    **Wizards (1982)** is for fans of fantasy adventure games who are willing to invest time and patience. It is not ideal for those seeking quick, streamlined gameplay. The game’s concept is intriguing, especially for those who enjoyed RPGs and fantasy settings in the early 1980s. However, its execution and length may deter some players, making it more of a niche game for dedicated enthusiasts.

    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 *