Malifaux (2009) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Malifaux is a tabletop wargame that was first released in 2009 by Wyrd Games. Set in a dark, gritty, and steampunk-inspired world, Malifaux offers players a unique gaming experience with its blend of horror, miniatures, and wargame elements. The game has gained a dedicated following over the years and has spawned several expansions and spin-off products.

Game Components of Malifaux

Miniatures: 32mm scale figures, each representing unique characters or models.

Fate Deck: A standard 52-card deck with two jokers, using suits like Rams, Crows, Tomes, and Masks instead of traditional suits.

Rulebook: Contains the game’s rules, lore, and faction descriptions.

Terrain: Optional, but recommended for creating a immersive battle environment.

Soulstones: Represent the valuable commodity driving the game’s narrative.

Strategy and Scheme cards: Define the game’s objectives and secret missions.

How To Setup Malifaux

Setting up Malifaux involves several steps. First, players select their faction and build a force of 5-7 figures. Each player creates a Fate Deck and shuffles it. The game board is set up with terrain to create a battle environment. Players draw a control hand of six cards from their Fate Deck at the start of each turn. Strategies and Schemes are chosen secretly from a shared pool, adding a layer of strategy and surprise to the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card-Based Resolution: Actions are resolved by flipping cards from the Fate Deck, adding relevant stats, and comparing totals.

Cheat Fate: Players can replace a flipped card with one from their hand to influence outcomes.

Strategies and Schemes: Shared mission objectives and secret secondary objectives that players must accomplish during the game.

Scoring: Points are scored based on achieving Strategy and Scheme objectives, with no scoring allowed on the first turn.

Game Duration: Typically multiple turns, with scores often being close and ties not uncommon.

Player Experience

Playing Malifaux is fast-paced and brutally strategic. The use of cards instead of dice adds a unique twist, allowing for more control over outcomes through the “Cheat Fate” mechanic. The game requires tactical thinking, as every action counts, especially as the crews dwindle in size. The secret Schemes add an element of surprise and intrigue, making each game unpredictable and engaging.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: The card-based resolution system offers a fresh alternative to traditional dice rolling.

Affordable Models: The miniatures are relatively affordable compared to other miniature games.

Deep Lore: The game is rich in lore, with complex characters and factions.

High Replayability: The combination of Strategies and secret Schemes ensures no two games are alike.

Strategic Depth: The game rewards tactical thinking and strategic planning.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve for New Players: Understanding the card mechanics and various factions can be challenging for new players.

Time Consumption: Setting up and playing a game can take several hours, especially for new players.

Complex Rulebook: The rulebook is detailed and may require multiple readings to fully understand.

Personal Thoughts on Malifaux

Malifaux is for players who enjoy strategic skirmish games with a rich narrative backdrop. It’s ideal for those who appreciate unique mechanics and deep lore, and are willing to invest time in understanding the game’s intricacies. Fans of horror and steampunk settings will particularly enjoy the immersive world of Malifaux. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers looking for a quick play, it is perfect for enthusiasts of tabletop strategy games.

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