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Cthulhu Tales (2016) Board Game

ByMichail

Cthulhu Tales is a board game that is based on the Lovecraftian horror genre, inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft. The game was released in 2016 and is designed for 2 to 5 players, with a runtime of 20 to 60 minutes. It is known for its engaging storytelling and open drafting mechanics.

Game Components of Cthulhu Tales

  • Game Board**
  • 75 Story cards**
  • 40 Hazard cards**
  • 40 Cardboard tokens**
  • 12-sided Mythos die**
  • Rulebook** (available free on the company’s website)
  • Resealable bag** for markers

    How To Setup Cthulhu Tales

    To set up the game, each player takes on the role of an inmate in a mental asylum, such as the Arkham Sanatorium or Danvers State Asylum. The game board is placed in the center, and each player draws a hand of cards. In each round, one player is designated as the narrator, while the others are Madness players. The narrator starts with five Story cards, and the Madness players have a number of Hazard cards depending on the number of players.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Narrative Storytelling: Each player tells their story using Story cards, while other players disrupt the narrative with Hazard cards.
  • Treatment Tokens: Players receive Treatment tokens, representing therapies and medications, based on their performance.
  • Mythos Die: The narrator rolls the Mythos die to determine if they must incorporate Hazard cards into their story.
  • Objective: The goal is to convince the other players and the staff that you are sane and do not belong in the asylum. The player with the least Treatment tokens at the end of the game wins.

    Player Experience

    In **Cthulhu Tales**, players immerse themselves in a dark, horror-filled narrative, trying to outdo each other in convincing the asylum staff of their sanity. The game encourages creative storytelling and strategic card play. Each round, the narrator must weave a cohesive story while the Madness players attempt to disrupt it, adding an element of social interaction and competitive storytelling.

    Pros

  • Engaging Storytelling: Encourages creative and immersive storytelling within the Cthulhu Mythos.
  • Beautiful Artwork: The game features gorgeous and thematic card artwork.
  • Interactive Gameplay: Players actively participate in each other’s stories, making it a social and engaging experience.
  • Quick Playtime: The game can be completed within 20 to 60 minutes.

    Cons

  • Structured Format: The game is strictly tied to its horror theme and cannot be adapted to other genres.
  • Random Elements: The game relies heavily on random card draws and die rolls, which can be frustrating for some players.
  • Limited Replayability: The structured format and random elements may limit the game’s replay value.

    Personal Thoughts on Cthulhu Tales

    **Cthulhu Tales** is perfect for fans of the Cthulhu Mythos and those who enjoy dark, narrative-driven games. It is not recommended for players under 15 years old due to its mature themes. The game is ideal for groups looking for a unique, storytelling-centric experience with a touch of horror and humor. However, players who prefer games with more strategic depth or those who are averse to random elements may find it less appealing.

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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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