En Garde! (2005) Board Game – Board Game Guys

En Garde! is a card game designed by Cliff Bohm and Beth Trott and published by SlugFest Games in in 2005. The game is set in the Renaissance period and focuses on fencing as its main theme. It is a fast-paced and strategic game that requires players to outmaneuver their opponents in order to win.

Game Components of En Garde!

Deck: The En Garde Reforged deck.

Player Mats: 6 card-sized mini-player mats.

Deck Box: OneBookShelf nesting large plastic deck box (optional).

Poise Markers: Players need to provide their own Poise markers (suggested use of vase filler beads).

Rules: Players must print out a copy of the rules.

How To Setup En Garde!

To set up the game, each player selects a mini-player mat and places it in front of them. The deck is shuffled, and each player is dealt a set of cards. Players need to have their own Poise markers ready. The rules document should be accessible for reference during the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Outmaneuver opponents in one-on-one duels to prove your fencing technique is supreme.

Mechanics:

Card Management: Carefully manage your cards to execute strategies.

Dueling: Engage in one-on-one duels against other players.

Poise Points: Track your character’s poise using markers, which reflect how “good looking” your character is.

Tactical Maneuvering: Use cards to outmaneuver opponents.

Player Experience

In **En Garde Reforged**, players are immersed in a Renaissance-era setting where they engage in intense fencing duels. The game requires strategic thinking and calm decision-making, as one wrong move can lead to defeat. Players must balance their card usage and maintain their poise to win duels.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Requires careful card management and tactical thinking.

Interactive: Engaging one-on-one duels keep players involved.

Thematic: Immersive Renaissance-era setting with a focus on dueling.

Customizable: Players can use their own Poise markers, adding a personal touch.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game may have complex rules that need careful reading and understanding.

Additional Materials Needed: Players must provide their own Poise markers and print the rules.

Learning Curve: New players may find it challenging to grasp the mechanics quickly.

Personal Thoughts on En Garde!

**En Garde Reforged** is ideal for fans of strategic card games and those who enjoy the swashbuckling theme of Renaissance-era dueling. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate tactical gameplay and are willing to invest time in understanding the rules. The game’s setup and mechanics make it a great choice for small to medium-sized gaming groups looking for a unique and engaging experience.

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