Lankhmar (1976) Board Game – Board Game Guys

The Lankhmar Board Game was released in 1976 and is based on the popular fantasy novels written by Fritz Leiber. The game takes place in the city of Lankhmar, a fictional setting filled with intrigue, adventure, and danger. Players take on the roles of characters from the novels, such as Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser, as they navigate the city and compete to become the most powerful and influential figure in Lankhmar.

Game Components of Lankhmar

22″ x 28″ paper hex grid map of Nehwon

224 counters

12-page rulebook

45 Geas cards

45 Reward cards

Six-sided die

Counter storage tray

How To Setup Lankhmar

Each player is given one of the four heroes (Fafhrd, the Gray Mouser, Pulgh, or Movarl) at random, along with eight warriors, several weapons counters, and horses, boats, or camels. Each player is also assigned one of the four citadels at random. The game begins with each player drawing a Geas card, which may contain a quest that the player must immediately carry out, assignable to either the hero or one of the warriors.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Player Choice: Players take on the roles of different heroes from Leiber’s stories.

Quest System: Players draw Geas cards that contain quests to be completed.

Combat Mechanics: Modernized combat rules using a hex grid system.

Objective: The primary goal is to capture opponents’ citadels.

Player Experience

Playing Lankhmar involves a mix of strategic planning and random elements from the Geas and Reward cards. The game retains the original geography of Leiber’s map but simplifies it into a hex grid, making it more manageable than the original college version. However, the game received criticism for lacking the uncertainty and mystery that are central to Leiber’s stories.

Pros

Rich Map: The 22″ x 28″ hex grid map of Nehwon is highly detailed and visually appealing.

Deep Lore: The game is rooted in the rich world created by Fritz Leiber and Harry Otto Fischer.

Variety of Characters: Players can choose from four distinct heroes, each with unique abilities.

Cons

Poor Reception: The game was criticized for being “simple” and “lifeless,” stripping the Leiber stories of their interest.

Flimsy Components: Most components, including the playing cards and counters, are printed on very flimsy stock.

Misaligned Objectives: The game’s objective of capturing citadels does not align well with the partnership dynamics of Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser in Leiber’s stories.

Personal Thoughts on Lankhmar

Lankhmar is for fans of Fritz Leiber’s works and those interested in early fantasy board games. While it has its flaws, the game offers a unique blend of strategy and role-playing elements. However, its failure to capture the essence of Leiber’s stories and the poor quality of some components might make it less appealing to modern gamers. Despite this, it remains a fascinating piece of gaming history and a tribute to the world of Nehwon.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.