Ravenous River (2016) Board Game

Ravenous River is a card game released in 2016, designed by Felicia Cano and published by Alderac Entertainment Group. The game is set in a river filled with dangerous animals, and players must bluff their way to safety. It is a quick-paced game that can accommodate 2 to 7 players, with a recommended age of 14 and up.

Game Components of Ravenous River

Player cards representing different animal roles (hidden during the game)

River tiles

Action cards

Tokens for tracking progress and resources

How To Setup Ravenous River

To set up Ravenous River, each player chooses an animal card, which remains hidden throughout the game. The river tiles are arranged to form the playing area, and each player receives a set of action cards. The game is ready to start once all players have their cards and the river is set up.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Hand Management: Players manage their action cards to navigate and interact with the river.

Hidden Roles: Players do not know which other players are predators or prey.

Objective: The goal is to be the first player to cross the river, while predators aim to prevent prey from crossing.

Player Interaction: Players use their action cards to move, block, or eat other players.

Player Experience

In Ravenous River, players experience a blend of strategy and social deduction. The hidden roles add a layer of suspense and bluffing, as players must use their action cards wisely to outmaneuver their opponents. The short gameplay duration of about 20 minutes makes it an engaging and fast-paced experience.

Pros

Quick Gameplay: Games last around 20 minutes.

High Replayability: Randomized river tiles and hidden roles ensure different experiences each time.

Simple yet Strategic: Easy to learn, but with depth in strategy.

Large Player Count: Supports 2-7 players.

Cons

Luck Element: The draw of action cards can significantly influence the game.

Limited Depth for Experienced Players: Some players might find the game too light.

Personal Thoughts on Ravenous River

Ravenous River is ideal for those looking for a quick, fun, and interactive game that combines strategy with social deduction. It’s perfect for casual game nights or as a filler game between more complex games. While it may not appeal to players seeking deep, complex gameplay, it offers a delightful experience for groups of various sizes.

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.