Demonlord (1981) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Demonlord is a fantasy wargame released in 1981 by Dwarfstar Games. The game was designed by David Helber, Arnold Hendrick, Cynthia Sims Millan, and Charles Vess. It is a 2-player game where players take on the roles of powerful demonlords battling for control over the realm.

Game Components of Demonlord

Map: A 12″ x 14″ hex map printed on heavy cardstock.

Counters: 154 counters representing various units and elements.

Rulebook: A 24-page rulebook detailing the game mechanics.

Other: Leaders, army units, and terrain effects components.

How To Setup Demonlord

To set up Demonlord, players first lay out the hex map, which represents the fantasy world where the conflict takes place. Each player selects their side: one plays as the Demon Empire, and the other as the Alliance of Hosar. Players then distribute their respective counters on the map according to the initial setup rules outlined in the rulebook. This setup involves placing army units, leaders, and other elements in their starting positions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Unit Movement: Players move their units across the map, with travel speed varying by unit type and terrain.

Invocation: Players can use spells and abilities to influence battles.

Battles: Combat occurs when units occupy the same hex, with outcomes determined by missile fire, melee value, and morale checks.

Sieges: Players can besiege castles and walled cities, either by surrounding and investing or by assaulting the walls.

Alliances: Players can attempt to ally with neutral countries on the map.

Objective: Victory is achieved by conquering the opponent’s capital city or accumulating a set number of victory points, which are earned through controlling fortresses, holding enemy cities, winning battles, and managing alliances.

Player Experience

Demonlord offers a rich and immersive gameplay experience, particularly appealing to fans of fantasy and strategy. The game is praised for its well-constructed components, intelligent combat system, and high replay value. Players must balance military conquest with diplomatic maneuvers, adding a layer of complexity and depth to the game.

Pros

High Replay Value: Multiple scenarios and variable setups ensure the game stays fresh.

Intelligent Combat System: The battle mechanics, including terrain effects and morale checks, add depth to the game.

Good Value: Originally priced at just $5, it was considered an excellent value for the content provided.

Well-Made Components: The map, counters, and rulebook are of good quality.

Cons

Complexity: The game has a steep learning curve due to its detailed rules and multiple phases.

Limited Player Count: Designed for only two players, which may limit its appeal for larger groups.

Personal Thoughts on Demonlord

Demonlord is ideal for fans of strategic fantasy games who enjoy intricate gameplay and tactical depth. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity, it is well worth looking into for those who appreciate a challenging and rewarding wargaming experience. The game’s unique mechanics and high replay value make it a standout in the genre.

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