Existenz: On the Ruins of Chaos (2011) Board Game

Existenz: On the Ruins of Chaos is a card game that was released in 2011 by designer Patrick Ruedisueli and published by Quantuum Magic. The game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the role of powerful sorcerers battling for control over the ruins of a once-great civilization. With stunning artwork by Peter Coolen and Erik de Brouwer, the game immerses players in a world of magic and chaos.

Game Components of Existenz: On the Ruins of Chaos

Game Board: A square board featuring a massive volcano and surrounding lands with various dots and connected pathways.

Dots: Six types, including Red with grey centre (Start Dots), which are safe areas for Summons.

Decks: Four unique decks of 51 cards each, representing different factions: Undead Legion, Pirate Confederacy, and Red Barbarian Brotherhood.

Cards: Include Summons, Energy Crystals, Fluxes, and Catalysts. Each deck has varying combinations of these card types.

Life Base: A special Summons card for each faction, serving as the central playing piece.

Playing Pieces: Tokens for each player’s Summons.

How To Setup Existenz: On the Ruins of Chaos

Players choose a faction, take their deck, and place the Life Base Summons card on one of the central Start Dots. Each player shuffles their deck, deals themselves 7 cards, and places the remainder face down. If unhappy with their hand, players can re-shuffle and deal again, though subsequent deals result in fewer cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Player Turn: Reactivate cards, draw a card, take a Crystal card, cast Summons, Fluxes, and Catalysts, move Summons, and attack opponents.

Victory Conditions: First player to get their Life Base to an End Dot, destroy all opponents’ Life Bases, or exhaust their deck (though this may not be decisive in multi-player games).

Movement and Attack: Summons can move and attack within specific rules, including restrictions on corner attacks and non-attack dots.

Crystal Management: Energy Crystals are required to use most abilities and move Summons.

Player Experience

**Existenz: On the Ruins of Chaos** offers a dynamic and strategic experience, especially appealing to fans of post-apocalyptic themes and magical combat. The game is set in a world where magic and strange creatures are powered by crystals, adding a unique twist to the gameplay. With different factions each having distinct strengths and weaknesses, players need to master their chosen deck to succeed.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Multiple layers of strategy involving card management, resource allocation, and movement.

Unique Factions: Each faction offers a different playstyle, catering to various player preferences.

Dynamic Gameplay: The use of Summons, Fluxes, and Catalysts creates a dynamic and interactive game environment.

Replayability: High replay value due to the variety in decks and gameplay possibilities.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game has a steep learning curve due to the complexity of its mechanics.

Lengthy Games: Games can last between 20 to 90 minutes, which might be too long for some players.

Deck Management: Managing the deck and crystals can be tedious, especially for new players.

Personal Thoughts on Existenz: On the Ruins of Chaos

This game is ideal for fans of strategic card games and post-apocalyptic settings. It is best suited for players who enjoy complex gameplay mechanics and are willing to invest time in learning the rules. The unique factions and dynamic gameplay make it a great addition to any board game collection, especially for those who appreciate a mix of strategy and fantasy elements. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for a quick, simple game.

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