KeyForge: Call of the Archons (2018) Board Game

KeyForge: Call of the Archons is a unique card game designed by Richard Garfield and published by Fantasy Flight Games in in 2018. What sets KeyForge apart from other card games is that each deck is procedurally generated, meaning no two decks are the same. Players must use their unique deck to forge keys and unlock vaults, all while battling their opponent’s creatures and forging alliances with their own.

Game Components of KeyForge: Call of the Archons

Decks: Each deck is unique, containing 37 cards from three different houses out of seven total houses (Brobnar, Dis, Logos, Mars, Sanctum, Shadows, and Untamed).

Tokens: Æmber tokens, key tokens, and damage counters.

Starter Set: Includes damage counters, key tokens, Æmber tokens, 2 training decks, and 2 additional unique decks.

How To Setup KeyForge: Call of the Archons

To set up the game, each player selects a deck and sets aside the Identity card. The deck is then shuffled and placed face down next to the Identity card. The start player draws 7 cards, while the other player draws 6. Key tokens are placed nearby with their unforged sides facing up. All other counters and tokens are set aside until needed.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: The first player to forge three keys wins the game.

House Selection: On each turn, a player chooses a house to use, which includes cards from that house in their hand and in play.

Card Play: Players can play cards from their hand without any cost, either exhausting them or using their abilities.

Æmber Collection: Players gain Æmber by using creatures to reap or through card effects. Six Æmber are needed to forge a key.

Combat: Creatures can be used to fight, dealing damage to opposing creatures. Creatures die when their health is depleted and are discarded.

Player Experience

KeyForge offers a dynamic and strategic experience with its unique deck mechanics. Players must adapt their strategy based on the cards they draw and the houses they choose. The game encourages strategic thinking and card management, making each game unique due to the diverse combinations of cards in each deck.

Pros

Unique Decks: Every deck is one-of-a-kind, offering endless variety in gameplay.

Strategic Depth: Requires thoughtful card play and resource management.

Quick Setup: Easy to set up and get started.

Engaging Mechanics: Combines card play, resource collection, and combat in a compelling way.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: New players may find the rules and strategies complex.

Cost: Purchasing multiple unique decks can be expensive.

Luck of the Draw: The cards you draw can significantly affect your chances of winning.

Personal Thoughts on KeyForge: Call of the Archons

KeyForge: Call of the Archons is ideal for fans of collectible card games and those who enjoy strategic gameplay with a high degree of variability. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate adapting to different card combinations and developing unique strategies each game. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking a game with a simpler ruleset or a lower financial commitment.

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