Harald (2015) Board Game
Harald is a card game designed by Emmanuel Civiello and was released in in 2015. The game is published by Eagle-Gryphon Games and RUNES Editions. It is set in a medieval world and revolves around animal characters competing for the throne.
## Game Components of Harald
– Deck of cards
– Reference cards
– Each card has a specific profession and unique abilities
## How To Setup Harald
To set up Harald, each player is dealt five cards from the deck. The remaining deck is placed to the side, and four cards are drawn and placed face up to create a “market.” This market is used to replenish players’ hands at the end of their turns.
## Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
– **Card Placement**: Players secretly play one card from their hand into their village.
– **Village and Council**: Cards are placed into either the village or the royal court (council) to activate their powers.
– **Scoring**: Points are scored based on the cards in the village and the council. Bonus points can be earned through specific card combinations.
– **Sabotage**: Players can use card abilities to sabotage their opponents by switching, removing, or flipping over cards.
– **Objective**: The player with the most points at the end of the game wins.
## Player Experience
Harald is praised for its simple yet strategic gameplay. Games are relatively short, lasting between 10-20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for quick gaming sessions. The game requires a delicate balance between building your village and influencing the council, while also navigating the actions of your opponents.
### Pros
– **Engaging Artwork**: The game features appealing and well-designed illustrations.
– **Strategic Depth**: Despite its simplicity, the game offers complex strategic options.
– **Quick Games**: Each game is relatively short, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
– **Interactive**: The game allows for significant interaction between players, including sabotage and strategic card play.
### Cons
– **Complex for Casual Players**: The game can be too complicated for average players due to the various card abilities and strategies.
– **Difficulty in Finding Opponents**: It can be challenging to find other players, especially online, which may reduce the game’s longevity.
## Personal Thoughts on Harald
Harald is ideal for players who enjoy strategic, abstract games with a high level of interaction. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate quick, intense gaming sessions and are willing to master the nuances of the game. While it may be too complex for casual players, it offers a rewarding experience for those who enjoy deep strategic gameplay.
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