Dragon Dice (1995) Board Game

Dragon Dice is a collectible dice game that was first released in in 1995. Designed by Lester Smith, the game has players building armies of mythical creatures and using dice to battle against each other. The game features beautiful artwork by artists such as Chris Adams and Jeff Easley, and it falls under the fantasy category.

Game Components of Dragon Dice

Dice: Various types including unit dice, monster dice, Dragonkin (six-sided, mono-colored dice), artifact dice (ten-sided, mono-colored), and terrain dice (eight-sided, two-colored).

Units: Represented by dice, each with unique icons and effects.

Terrains: Represented by eight-sided dice, indicating the elements (air, earth, fire, water, death) and icons for missile, melee, or magic.

How To Setup Dragon Dice

To set up the game, each player selects a predetermined amount of health points for their army, typically 36 points. Players bring two terrains: one Home terrain and one proposed Frontier terrain. Each terrain has its own characteristics and benefits. For example, a Swampland terrain might be composed of earth and water elements, indicated by its colors. Players then build their armies with the selected dice units and monsters.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Capture two terrains by controlling them and turning their terrain dice to the eighth face, or eliminate the opponent’s army entirely.

Combat Mechanics: Combat is resolved through dice rolling, with different faces indicating missile, melee, or magic actions.

Magic System: Magical power is classified by elements (air, earth, fire, water, death), and each race is composed of two of these elements. Special terrains provide additional bonuses, such as immunity to death magic or enhanced recruitment capabilities.

Terrain Control: Each terrain has special icons on its eighth face (City, Temple, Tower, Standing Stones), which provide specific benefits to the controlling army.

Player Experience

Playing Dragon Dice involves a mix of strategic planning and tactical execution. Players must balance their army composition, utilize the unique abilities of their units and terrains, and adapt to the evolving battlefield. The game encourages a deep level of engagement, as players need to think ahead and manage their resources effectively.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Offers a rich and complex gameplay experience with various strategies and combinations.

Customization: Players can build diverse armies with unique units and terrains.

Dynamic Gameplay: Combines luck and skill, making each game different.

Awards and Recognition: Won the 1995 Origins Award for Best Fantasy or Science-Fiction Board Game.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players due to the numerous rules and dice types.

Initial Reception: Despite its quality, the game had poor initial sales, leading to excess stock for TSR.

Learning Curve: Requires time and effort to master the game mechanics and strategies.

Personal Thoughts on Dragon Dice

Dragon Dice is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games with a fantasy setting and are willing to invest time in learning the game’s intricacies. It is particularly suited for fans of collectible dice games and those who appreciate the blend of luck and strategy. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity, it offers a rewarding experience for those who dive into its depths.

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