Dragon Pass (1980) Board Game

Dragon Pass is a fantasy wargame that was originally released in 1980 by The Avalon Hill Game Co. The game is designed by Robert Corbett and Greg Stafford, and features artwork by William Church, Kenn Nishiuye, Steve Oliff, and Steve Swenston. Dragon Pass is set in the mythical land of Glorantha, where players take on the roles of clan leaders vying for control of the region.

Game Components of Dragon Pass

Game board with hexagon grid

Player pieces representing clans

Event cards

Dice

Rulebook

Tokens for tracking points

How To Setup Dragon Pass

Set up the game board with the hexagon grid.

Each player selects a clan and places their pieces on the board.

Shuffle the event cards and place them face down.

Determine the starting player.

Begin the game!

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Players in Dragon Pass take turns moving their clan pieces on the board, rolling dice to resolve combat and events, and strategically positioning themselves to gain points. The objective is to have the most points by the end of the game, which typically lasts around 120 minutes.

Player Experience

Pros:

Rich fantasy theme

Strategic depth

Engaging gameplay mechanics

Replayability

Cons:

Steep learning curve

Lengthy playtime

Limited player count

Personal Thoughts on Dragon Pass

Dragon Pass is a classic wargame that offers a deep and immersive experience for players who enjoy fantasy settings and strategic gameplay. The build quality of the components is solid, and the artwork adds to the thematic immersion. The game falls on the higher end of the price spectrum, but can often be found used for a more affordable price.

For those who enjoy wargames and are looking for a challenging and immersive experience, Dragon Pass is definitely worth your time. However, due to the complexity and lengthy playtime, it may not be suitable for casual gamers or those looking for a quick, light-hearted game. Fans of similar games like Risk or Axis & Allies may find Dragon Pass to be a welcome addition to their collection. Overall, Dragon Pass is a game that offers a deep and rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time and effort into mastering its strategic nuances.

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