Kamigami Battles: River of Souls (2018) Board Game

Kamigami Battles: River of Souls is an expansion for the base game Kamigami Battles, which was released in in 2018. The game is designed by Rich Gain and published by Japanime Games. It falls under the categories of card game, expansion for base-game, and mythology, making it an interesting addition for fans of these genres. The game incorporates deck, bag, and pool building, hand management, and variable player powers as its main mechanisms.

Game Components of Kamigami Battles: River of Souls

God cards: Each with unique abilities and ‘Spheres of Influence’ representing elements they control.

Temple cards: Optional cards with their own Energy piles and abilities.

Disciple cards: Primary currency and source of abilities, generating Faith Points to buy more cards.

Warrior cards: Used for attacks, featuring Primary and Chaining Colors for strategic play.

Energy tokens: Punch-out tokens for tracking Energy, though often insufficient in larger games.

Dividers: For organizing cards, including artwork and card names.

Randomizer deck: For easy setup.

How To Setup Kamigami Battles: River of Souls

Setup involves distributing God cards to each player, each starting with 15 Energy tokens. Temples, if used, begin with 5 Energy tokens. Players organize their decks using the provided dividers and randomizer deck for a quick start.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Deck building: Players build their decks using Disciple and Warrior cards.

God and Temple management: Manage Energy tokens for both God and Temple cards.

Combat mechanics: Warrior cards are played to deplete opponents’ God or Temple Energy.

Chaining system: Warrior cards must match Primary Colors with Chaining Colors of previously played cards.

Team Match mode: For 4-6 players, divided into two teams competing against each other.

Objective: Be the last player or team with Energy remaining, or reach 25 Energy first.

Player Experience

Kamigami Battles: River of Souls offers a fresh take on the deck-building genre with its competitive and fast-paced gameplay. The unique abilities of God and Temple cards ensure each playthrough is different, requiring players to think strategically and adapt quickly. The game is ideal for gaming groups looking for a more competitive experience that accommodates multiple players.

Pros

Unique mechanics: Deviates from standard deck-building mechanics, making it feel fresh.

Varied gameplay: Different approaches with God and Temple cards.

Competitive design: Encourages fast and strategic play.

Beautiful artwork: Illustrated by talented artists with an anime/manga style.

Expandable content: Multiple core sets and expansions available.

Cons

Energy token shortage: Frequently runs out of Energy tokens, especially in larger games.

Art style not for everyone: The anime/manga art direction may not appeal to all players.

Personal Thoughts on Kamigami Battles: River of Souls

Kamigami Battles: River of Souls is a must-have for fans of competitive deck-building games. It is perfect for gaming groups seeking a dynamic and strategic experience that supports a wide range of players. While the art style and token supply might be drawbacks for some, the game’s unique mechanics and expansive content make it a standout in its genre.

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