DELVE: A Solo Game of Digging Too Deep (2020) Board Game

DELVE: A Solo Game of Digging Too Deep is a board game released in 2020 that is designed for solo play. The game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the role of delvers, tasked with exploring and excavating underground caverns to uncover valuable resources.

Game Components of DELVE: A Solo Game of Digging Too Deep

A 44-page zine containing the game rules and tables

A pencil

Paper (preferably 1″ grid)

A deck of playing cards.

How To Setup DELVE: A Solo Game of Digging Too Deep

To set up DELVE, you need to prepare your grid paper, have a pencil ready, and shuffle a standard deck of playing cards. Each turn, your dwarves will mine another square on the grid, and you will draw a card from the deck to determine what they find. The game starts with the Under-King’s bounty for a Void Crystal, which sets the narrative in motion.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Grid Mapping: Players draw the map as they explore, using a 1″ grid paper.

Card Drawing: Use a standard deck of playing cards to generate content such as resources, natural formations, forgotten ruins, enemies, and magical effects.

Resource Management: Hearts ♥ and Diamonds ♦ represent resources and trade goods.

Combat System: Simple turn-based combat with tower-defense style enemy movement.

Building and Expansion: Rules for building and expanding your dwarven hold, including structures like prisons.

Game Objective

The primary objective is to find the Void Crystal while building and protecting your dwarven hold from the horrors that lurk below.

Player Experience

Playing DELVE is an immersive experience that balances creative interpretation with mechanical structure. Players take on the role of a dwarven mine boss, exploring deep caverns, managing resources, and defending against subterranean threats. The game allows for forward planning and strategic thinking without overwhelming book-keeping. Some players use it as a journaling project, writing in the persona of their character, which adds a personal touch to the game.

Pros

Balanced Mechanics: Combines creative map drawing with structured rules.

Immersive Storytelling: Inspired by *Dwarf Fortress* and *Dungeon Keeper*, it captures the feeling of building and protecting a subterranean fortress.

Flexibility: Allows for various play styles and can be adapted into a cooperative game or a detailed journaling project.

Simple Setup: Only requires basic materials like a pencil, paper, and a deck of cards.

Cons

Prison Mechanics: Some players find the prison mechanics too beneficial, making it feel unbalanced compared to other structures.

Rule Clarifications: There have been minor issues with rule references, though these are being addressed.

Personal Thoughts on DELVE: A Solo Game of Digging Too Deep

DELVE is ideal for players who enjoy solo role-playing games, map drawing, and strategic resource management. It is particularly suited for those who like the idea of building and protecting a fortress in an unforgiving environment. The game’s balance between structure and creative freedom makes it appealing to both casual and experienced gamers. If you’re looking for a game that combines exploration, strategy, and a touch of creativity, DELVE is a great choice.

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