Dragon Face (2011) Board Game

Dragon Face is an abstract strategy board game released in 2011 by Blue Orange Games. With a playing time of around 20 minutes and designed for 2 players aged 8 and above, the game challenges players to outmaneuver their opponent on a 7×9 grid board.

Game Components of Dragon Face

Game board

Pieces for each player, including an Emperor (moves like a King in Chess)

Other game pieces with distinct movements

How To Setup Dragon Face

To set up Dragon Face, each player starts with their pieces and one Emperor on their side of the board. The specific placement of pieces may vary, but the general setup involves symmetrical arrangement to ensure fairness.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Capture and join; captured pieces switch sides instead of being removed.

Game Objective: Capture the opponent’s Emperor to win.

Movement: Pieces move in ways similar to Checkers and Chess, with the Emperor having King-like movements.

Capturing: Pieces can capture opponent pieces, which then join the capturing player’s team.

Player Experience

Dragon Face offers a unique blend of strategy and tactical thinking, similar to Chess and Checkers but with the twist of captured pieces changing sides. This mechanic adds a layer of complexity and unpredictability, making each game dynamic and engaging. Players need to balance short-term gains with long-term strategies to outmaneuver their opponent.

Pros

Dynamic Gameplay: Captured pieces joining the opposing team adds unpredictability.

Strategic Depth: Combines elements of Chess and Checkers for a challenging experience.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players as young as 8 years old.

Short Playtime: Games typically last about 20 minutes.

Cons

Learning Curve: The unique capture mechanic may take time to get used to.

Luck Element: The changing allegiance of pieces can introduce an element of luck.

Personal Thoughts on Dragon Face

Dragon Face is an excellent choice for those who enjoy abstract strategy games but are looking for something with a fresh twist. It is particularly suitable for families or casual gamers who want a game that is both fun and intellectually stimulating. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking games with strict rules or those who prefer games without any element of luck.

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