Melee (2014) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Melee is a board game designed by Rikki Tahta and released in 2014 by La Mame Games. It is a strategic game that combines elements of bluffing, territory building, and wargaming. With a playtime of around 20 minutes and suitable for players aged 10 and above, Melee is a fast-paced and engaging game that challenges players to outwit their opponents and conquer territories.

Game Components of Melee

Castle: Each player starts with a castle.

Foot Soldiers: One unit of foot soldiers per player.

Gold Coins: 15 gold coins for each player.

Units: Various units available for purchase during the game.

Terrain: The game board features different terrains that affect gameplay.

How To Setup Melee

To set up Melee, players begin with a drafting session where they purchase units using their gold coins. Each player starts with a castle, one unit of foot soldiers, and the initial gold coins. The board is set up with terrains that will influence the movement and combat of units.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Unit Purchase: Players buy units during a drafting phase.

Movement: Units move across the board, influenced by terrain.

Combat: Combat is resolved through simple mechanics, often involving dice rolls.

Objective: The goal is to capture the opponent’s castle or eliminate all of their units.

Player Experience

Melee is described as a fun yet straightforward conquest game. Players engage in strategic unit purchases and movements to outmaneuver their opponents. However, the game can sometimes feel too simplistic, particularly in its combat resolution, which may lack the depth some players crave.

Pros

Simple to Learn: Easy-to-understand rules make it accessible to new players.

Quick Games: Matches are generally short, allowing for multiple plays in a session.

Strategic Depth: Despite simplicity, there is room for strategic decision-making in unit purchases and movements.

Cons

Limited Combat Mechanics: Combat can feel too random or simplistic.

Repetitive: Games can become repetitive due to the straightforward nature of the gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on Melee

Melee is ideal for players looking for a quick, light-hearted conquest game. It is particularly suited for those new to strategy games or those who enjoy simple, fast-paced gameplay. However, experienced players seeking complex combat mechanics or deep strategic layers might find Melee too simplistic. Despite this, it remains a fun and engaging game for casual game nights or introductory sessions.

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.