Altered (2024) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Altered is a card game designed by Max Fiévé and Ting-Yun Yu and released in in 2024. It is a 2-4 player game with a runtime of 10-40 minutes. The game falls under the category of Collectible Card Games, and it features artwork by Equinox.

Game Components of Altered

6 Asymmetric Starter Decks: Each with its own unique playstyle and faction.

Heroes: Each deck has a hero that provides a special ability and determines the faction and color of the cards.

Landmarks: Permanent cards offering ongoing or one-time effects.

Characters: Cards played to support the hero or companion and pass exploration tests.

Spells: Cards with one-time effects that move to the reserve after use.

Mana Cards: Used to exhaust and play cards from the hand or reserve.

Tumult Cards: Face-down cards showing different regions that affect tests throughout the game.

QR Codes: For digital ownership and card details.

How To Setup Altered

To set up Altered, players begin by placing a Hero region and Companion Region card on either side of the center of the table with their respective hero and companion tokens. Between these cards, three tumult cards are shuffled and placed face down. Each player draws three cards from their deck, keeps three, and places three cards face down as mana. The first player marker is set, and the game is ready to start.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Be the first to get your Hero and Companion token to meet across a central tableau of cards.

Phases:

Morning: Change the first player marker, ready any mana or exhausted cards, draw two new cards, and add a card from the hand to the mana supply.

Noon: Trigger “At Noon” effects from certain cards in play.

Afternoon: Play cards from the hand or reserve, using printed abilities from cards in play.

Night: Resolve fleeting traits from cards played from the reserve.

Terrains: Different terrain types affect gameplay, requiring players to play the right cards at the right time.

Player Experience

Altered offers a unique and accessible gaming experience. The game is designed to be straightforward and easy to teach, even to middle school-age players. It emphasizes outmaneuvering rather than direct conflict, creating a lighter and more cooperative atmosphere compared to other TCGs. Players must think strategically about card placement, reserve management, and opponent analysis, adding a layer of depth to the gameplay.

Pros

Innovative Mechanics: Unique QR code system for digital ownership and foil upgrades.

Accessible: Easy to learn and play, suitable for a wide range of ages and experiences.

Strategic Depth: Requires thoughtful card placement and reserve management.

Community Focus: Emphasizes optimism, community, and kindness.

Cons

Simplicity: Some players find the game too simple, lacking the complexity of other TCGs.

Unique and Overpowered Cards: Concerns about the rarity and balance of certain cards.

Cost: TCGs can be expensive, and the unique card system may add to the cost.

Personal Thoughts on Altered

Altered is for players looking for a fresh and modern TCG experience that balances simplicity with strategic depth. It is ideal for those who enjoy exploration and racing mechanics rather than direct combat. However, it may not appeal to players seeking highly complex gameplay or those who are wary of the potential costs associated with TCGs. Overall, Altered offers a unique and engaging experience that is worth exploring for anyone interested in the genre.

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