Into the Black Forest (2019) Board Game

Into the Black Forest is a card game designed by Darryl T. Jones and published by Green Couch Games in in 2019. The game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the roles of animal factions competing for control of the forest.

Game Components of Into the Black Forest

48 Player Cards, separated into 4 player decks of 12 cards each

18 Encounter Cards

A pen and paper for scoring.

How To Setup Into the Black Forest

To set up the game, each player shuffles their deck and draws six cards. The Encounter Deck is also shuffled, and three Encounter Cards are revealed at the start of each round. This allows players to plan ahead based on the challenges presented by the Encounter Cards. The player who has last spent time in the woods starts the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay: Players take turns placing cards to available locations along the four sides of the Encounter Card. Each side has different scoring rules:

Bottom: The low card wins, scoring points equal to the value of the higher numbered card.

Left: The card scores points if its suit matches one of the cards placed along the top.

Top: The high card wins, scoring points equal to the value of the lower card.

Right: Each player plays one card face-down to meet a unique win condition; the winning card scores 6 points.

Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most points over two to three rounds, with each round consisting of three encounters. The player with the highest score at the end of the rounds wins. In case of a tie, the player with the most cards still in hand is the victor.

Player Experience

Playing Into the Black Forest involves a mix of strategy and bluffing. As players navigate through the encounters, they need to manage their hand carefully, making tactical decisions about which cards to play and when. The game starts with a straightforward rhythm but reveals deeper strategies as play continues, such as the importance of being the starting player and the art of bluffing on the right side of the Encounter Card.

Pros

Engaging Mechanics: Combines trick-taking, area control, and light bluffing, making it appealing to fans of these genres.

Quick Playtime: Games last approximately 30-45 minutes.

Simple to Learn: Light complexity makes it accessible to players aged 8+.

Strategic Depth: Offers opportunities for strategic play and bluffing, especially in the later stages of the game.

Cons

Limited Replayability: The game’s mechanics, while engaging, might become repetitive for some players.

Small Box, Limited Components: The game is compact, which might make it less appealing to players who prefer more complex setups.

Personal Thoughts on Into the Black Forest

Into the Black Forest is ideal for players who enjoy card games with a blend of strategy and bluffing. It is particularly suited for families or casual game groups looking for a game that is easy to learn but still offers a challenging and engaging experience. The game’s light complexity and quick playtime make it a great addition to any game collection, especially for those who appreciate fantasy-themed settings and simple yet strategic gameplay.

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