Risk: Europe (2015) Board Game

Risk: Europe is a strategic board game that was released in in 2015. It is a standalone game in the Risk series, which has been popular among board game enthusiasts for decades. This version of Risk is set in medieval Europe, adding a historical element to the gameplay. Designed by Austin Rucker and featuring artwork by Hasbro and Winning Moves Games, Risk: Europe offers a unique twist on the classic territory-building wargame.

Game Components of Risk: Europe

Gameboard set in medieval Europe

4 armies, each with 35 Footmen, 12 Archers, 12 Cavalry, and 4 Siege Weapons

8 castles

12 red dice

32 King’s Orders cards (4 decks)

8 City Bonus tiles

21 gold pieces and 40 silver pieces

4 War Banners

First Player Marker

4 reminder cards

8 Crown cards

Card box and game guide.

How To Setup Risk: Europe

To set up the game, players start by selecting a starting city, an adjacent territory, and placing a castle in their city. Each major city on the board provides a unique bonus to the player controlling it, with cities in central locations offering better bonuses compared to those on the outer edges. This balance helps to ensure a fair start for all players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: The first player to collect 7 Gold Crown Cities wins the game.

Turn Structure: Players select and play two King’s Orders cards simultaneously, determining their actions for the turn.

Army Expansion: Players can expand their armies by purchasing units at any controlled capital or castle.

Taxation: Money is gained through taxing lands that have been conquered.

Combat: Battles are conducted in stages, starting with siege weapons, followed by archers, cavalry, and finally remaining forces.

Secret Missions: An optional mode where players complete secret missions to earn crowns and bonuses.

Player Experience

Risk: Europe offers a fresh and nuanced take on the classic Risk gameplay. It is designed for 2 to 4 players and features a slower, more tactical pace that discourages turtling and encourages engagement with the game mechanics. The game is highly strategic, with a focus on medieval conquest and the management of resources and armies. Players appreciate the versatility of the game, which can evolve into either all-out battles or a simpler race to collect crowns, depending on the starting city and player strategies.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game introduces tiered combat priority and restricted action selection, making it more complex and engaging.

Versatility: Supports various play styles, from aggressive conquest to strategic crown collection.

Improved Replayability: Each game starts fresh, with no permanent map changes, ensuring high replayability.

Balanced Start: Bonuses from major cities help balance the game, regardless of the starting location.

Enjoyable for Fewer Players: Includes mercenary rules for enjoyable gameplay with just two players.

Cons

Complexity: The game is more complicated than traditional Risk, which may deter some players.

Crown Card Balance: Some players find the crown cards too powerful and may need to be nerfed for a more satisfying game.

Component Quality: The coins are made of pressed card material, which some players find disappointing.

Personal Thoughts on Risk: Europe

Risk: Europe is ideal for those who enjoy deep strategic gameplay and are looking for a fresh twist on the classic Risk formula. It is particularly recommended for players who appreciate nuanced combat mechanics and resource management. While it may not feel like traditional Risk to some, it offers a compelling and engaging experience that sets it apart as one of the best versions in the Risk series.

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