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Claim 2 (2018) Board Game

ByMichail

Claim 2 is a sequel to the popular card game Claim, designed by Scott Almes and published by White Goblin Games in in 2018. The game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the roles of rival factions vying for control of the realm.

Game Components of Claim 2

  • Deck of cards:** Featuring various factions such as tiny gnomes, trampling giants, and powerful dragons.
  • Player hands:** Each player holds 13 cards.
  • Reveal card:** The top card from the deck that players aim to claim.

    How To Setup Claim 2

    To set up Claim 2, shuffle the deck of cards and place it face-down in the middle of the table. Deal 13 cards to each player, and each player takes these cards into their hand. The top card from the deck is revealed and placed beside the deck.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Phases:** The game is divided into two phases.
  • Phase 1:** Players compete to claim cards from the middle of the table by winning tricks. The revealed card determines what players are competing for.
  • Phase 2:** Players use the cards claimed in Phase 1 to compete in tricks. The goal is to win enough tricks to gain the majority in at least three of the five clans (factions).
  • Trick-taking:** Players must play a card from the same faction as the revealed card. If they cannot, they can play any card, but it will always lose the trick.
  • Strategic Losses:** Players must strategically decide when to win or lose tricks to maximize their chances of gaining the majority in the desired clans.

    Player Experience

    Claim 2 offers a unique and engaging experience for two players. The game balances randomness with skill, making each game dynamic and unpredictable. Players must carefully plan their moves, considering both the immediate and long-term consequences of winning or losing tricks. The need to sometimes intentionally lose tricks adds a layer of strategy, making the game more intriguing and challenging.

    Pros

  • Balanced Randomness and Skill:** A skilled player tends to win more often, but luck can still favor a less skilled player.
  • Replayability:** The distribution of cards and the need to adapt strategies ensure high replayability.
  • Short Playtime:** Games typically last around 20 minutes.
  • Unique Mechanics:** The game’s dual-phase structure and strategic trick-taking make it stand out.

    Cons

  • Initial Learning Curve:** Understanding the strategy behind losing and winning tricks can take some time.
  • Luck Factor:** While balanced, the randomness in card distribution can sometimes lead to frustrating outcomes.

    Personal Thoughts on Claim 2

    Claim 2 is ideal for fans of strategy and trick-taking games, especially those who enjoy two-player games. It’s perfect for players who appreciate a mix of luck and skill, and its short playtime makes it an excellent addition to any game night. The unique mechanics and strategic depth ensure that players will find themselves drawn back to the game again and again. If you’re looking for a game that challenges you to think ahead and adapt quickly, Claim 2 is an excellent choice.

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    • 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

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