| | | | | | |

Behext (2023) Board Game

ByMichail

Behext is a card game released in 2023, designed by Lindsey Look and published by Smirk & Dagger Games. It falls into the categories of Fantasy and Fighting, with gameplay mechanics such as Card Play Conflict Resolution, Deck, Bag, and Pool Building, End Game Bonuses, Hand Management, and Interrupts. The game is designed for 3-5 players, with a runtime of 50-90 minutes and recommended for ages 14 and up.

Game Components of Behext

  • 10 Battlemage play mats
  • 220 cards
  • Hex and Enhancement tokens
  • 6 Willpower markers
  • 1st Caster token
  • Round Tracker and markers
  • Four in-box Mastery Packs adding new mechanics, Battlemages, and 72 new cards.

    How To Setup Behext

    To set up Behext, each player chooses a mage’s player mat and starting deck, which includes 7 standard cards and 3 unique cards. The draw deck is shuffled and split into four decks. Tokens and the round track are placed nearby, and the first player is determined. Each player shuffles their deck to begin the game.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective:** Have the most Victory Points at the end of 4 rounds.
  • Gameplay:** Players purchase cards from the draw decks and play cards to pass the Hex onto other players. Turns continue until a player cannot play a card to pass the Hex, marking the end of the round.
  • Mechanics:** Deckbuilding, hand management, and Take That mechanics, where buying Victory Points comes with risks and adding cards to the deck requires discarding current defense cards.

    Player Experience

    Behext offers a dynamic and competitive experience where players must balance their deck-building with the immediate need to defend against and pass on the Hex. The game starts slowly as players acquire cards, but it escalates quickly as the threat of the Hex accumulates. Players need to strategically tailor their decks and react to emerging opportunities, making it a game of tense magical combat.

    Pros

  • High Replayability:** Variable gameplay due to unique mage themes, random card draws, and expansions.
  • Strategic Depth:** Requires careful planning and adaptability.
  • Interactive:** Players constantly engage with each other through curses and counter-curses.
  • Theme and Art:** Intricate card designs and thematic player mats add to the game’s charm.

    Cons

  • Component Quality:** Cards and play mats are of fairly flimsy stock, requiring sleeves for longevity.
  • Learning Curve:** Initial rounds can be slow as players learn the mechanics.
  • Complexity:** While not overly complex, the game’s mechanics may not appeal to everyone.

    Personal Thoughts on Behext

    Behext is ideal for players who enjoy competitive, interactive games with a strong focus on strategy and deck-building. It’s best suited for those aged 14 and above who appreciate the back-and-forth drama of Take That mechanics. While it may not be for everyone due to its unique blend of gameplay elements, it offers a refreshing twist on traditional deck-building games for fans of magical combat and strategic play.

    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 *