Dogs of War (2014) Board Game

Dogs of War is a strategic board game released in 2014, designed by Mathieu Harlaut and Christophe Madura. The game is set in a renaissance-inspired world where players take on the roles of powerful noble houses vying for control and influence. With its mix of area majority, hand management, and worker placement mechanics, Dogs of War offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience.

Game Components of Dogs of War

Game board

5 player screens

5 house miniatures

Influence cubes

Combat tokens

Mercenary cards

Mission cards

Gold coins

Score markers

How To Setup Dogs of War

Set up the game board in the center of the play area.

Each player chooses a house miniature and takes the corresponding player screen and influence cubes.

Shuffle the mercenary cards and place them face down on the board.

Shuffle the mission cards and place them face down on the board.

Place the combat tokens, gold coins, and score markers within reach of all players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Dogs of War, players must strategically deploy their mercenaries to win battles, complete missions, and earn gold to gain influence and control over regions. The game is played over several rounds, with players taking turns to assign mercenaries to different battles and missions. The objective is to earn the most influence points by the end of the game.

Player Experience

Pros:

Strategic depth with multiple paths to victory

Engaging player interaction through negotiation and alliances

Beautiful artwork and component quality

Cons:

Can be overwhelming for new players

Some randomness in card draws can affect gameplay

Personal Thoughts on Dogs of War

Dogs of War is a well-crafted board game that offers a unique blend of strategic gameplay and player interaction. The game’s components are of high quality, and the artwork is visually stunning. While the game may be challenging for new players, the depth of strategy and negotiation opportunities make it a rewarding experience for seasoned gamers.

In terms of pricing and availability, Dogs of War can be found in both new and used condition, with prices varying depending on the edition. For fans of abstract strategy games with a touch of diplomacy, Dogs of War is definitely worth the investment. However, those looking for a lighter gaming experience may want to skip this one.

Overall, Dogs of War is a game that caters to players who enjoy deep strategic gameplay and are willing to invest time and effort into mastering its mechanics. If you enjoy games like Diplomacy or Game of Thrones: The Board Game, Dogs of War is sure to captivate your interest.

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