Marvel: Damage Control (2023) Board Game

Marvel: Damage Control is a board game based on the popular Marvel comic book series. Designed by Darren Calvert and published by WizKids, this game allows players to take on the roles of superheroes working together to clean up the aftermath of epic battles in the Marvel Universe.

Game Components of Marvel: Damage Control

136 cards

4 Damage Control Manager cards

20 Starting Crew cards

30 Standard Artifact cards

10 Claim cards

40 Module cards (4×10)

28 Character cards

4 Reference cards

12 Board Boundary tiles

4 Vault tiles

4 Player boards

50+ Influence tokens

Rulebook

How To Setup Marvel: Damage Control

To set up the game, each player selects a Damage Control Manager card and starts with a set of Starting Crew cards. The rubble is represented by a pile of mostly facedown cards, known as the Destruction Zone, placed in the middle of the table. The Character Deck, containing heroes like Captain America, Shang-Chi, and Black Widow, is also prepared. Players choose two modules (Mighty Asgard, Mystical Manipulation, Pym Tech, and Vibranium Synthesis) to mix into the standard Rubble and Character decks, adding variety to each game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Deck-Building: Players use their deck of Damage Control employees to demolish, uncover, and collect Rubble Cards.

Rubble Mechanism: Players interact with the rubble by flipping cards faceup to reveal available artifacts.

Actions: Players can Uncover, Extract, Demo, or place cards into their Vault.

Character Deck: Heroes provide effects and victory points.

Modules: Two modules are chosen each game to mix into the decks.

Objective: Collect valuable items, use their abilities to strengthen your deck, and store them in your Vault to earn victory points.

Player Experience

Playing Marvel: Damage Control can be a chaotic and somewhat frustrating experience. The game’s rubble mechanism, although thematic, can feel clunky and random. Players often struggle with limited control over their deck and the constant disruption from “take that” cards and events. The game lacks the dynamism and strategic depth typical of other deck-building games, leading to a sense of randomness and luck rather than strategic play.

Pros

Thematic Integration: The game’s theme of cleaning up after superhero battles is unique and engaging.

Variety: The use of modules adds different stories, strategies, and gameplay options.

Quick Playtime: Games last only about 30 minutes.

Marvel Universe: Incorporates popular Marvel heroes and items.

Cons

Clunky Rubble Mechanism: The way cards are drawn and interacted with can be cumbersome.

High Randomness: The game is heavily influenced by luck, reducing strategic control.

Limited Deck Building: Building a powerful deck feels less satisfying due to the randomness.

Chaotic Gameplay: Too much randomness and disruption can make the game frustrating.

Personal Thoughts on Marvel: Damage Control

Marvel: Damage Control is more suited for casual gamers or diehard Marvel fans who might enjoy the thematic elements despite the game’s mechanical shortcomings. However, for those seeking a more strategic and engaging deck-building experience, this game may not be the best choice. The lack of depth and the high level of randomness make it less appealing for players looking for a more structured and rewarding gameplay experience.

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.