Risk Legacy (2011) Board Game

Risk Legacy is a board game that was released in 2011 by Hasbro and designed by Rob Daviau and Chris Dupuis. It is a science fiction wargame that incorporates elements of area movement, dice rolling, legacy game, open drafting, player elimination, and variable player powers. The game is designed for 3-5 players, with a suggested age of 13+ and a runtime of around 60 minutes.

Game Components of Risk Legacy

Game board

28 Faction Tokens

5 Faction Boards

270 Resource Tokens

55 Minor City Tokens

15 Major City Tokens

4 Packet Tokens

2 “Do Not Open” Packets

1 Rulebook

Missiles and Scar Cards

Territory Cards

Dice

How To Setup Risk Legacy

Setting up Risk Legacy involves several steps, but it starts simply. Each player selects a faction, each with its unique strengths and buffs. Players then determine their starting placement on the map, turn order, starting troop numbers, and initial resource cards. The game includes a rulebook that guides the setup process, ensuring that each game begins with a clear understanding of the rules and objectives.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics:

Area Control

Legacy System

Variable Player Powers

Dice Rolling

Game Objective:

The primary goal is to collect four victory points, which can be achieved by conquering home bases, trading in resource cards, or completing specific objectives.

Each game builds upon the previous one, with players making permanent changes to the board, such as naming continents, placing cities, and introducing new rules and components.

The legacy system allows for dramatic alterations to the game world over 15 rounds, making each subsequent game unique.

Player Experience

Risk Legacy offers a dynamic and evolving experience. Players find themselves immersed in a campaign that spans multiple games, each with its own set of challenges and opportunities. The game encourages strategic thinking and adaptation, as players must consider long-term consequences of their actions. The inclusion of missiles, scar cards, and other legacy elements adds a layer of depth and personalization to the game, making it feel like a shared history among the players.

Pros

Innovative Legacy Mechanic: Each game changes the board and rules, creating a unique experience.

High Replayability: With multiple rounds and permanent changes, the game stays fresh over 15 games.

Strategic Depth: Players must think strategically about long-term consequences of their actions.

Personalization: The game becomes tailored to the group playing it, enhancing the sense of ownership and history.

Quick and Engaging Games: Games can last between 30-120 minutes, making it feasible to play multiple sessions in one sitting.

Cons

Dice Rolling: Poor dice rolls can significantly impact gameplay, leading to frustration.

Australia’s Initial Advantage: The continent of Australia can provide an overpowered start, though this can be balanced later.

Group Commitment: The game requires a consistent group to fully appreciate the legacy aspect.

Replayability Limitations: After the initial 15 rounds, the game’s ability to change and evolve ends, though it remains playable.

Personal Thoughts on Risk Legacy

Risk Legacy is ideal for groups who enjoy strategy, war games, and are willing to commit to a multi-game campaign. It is not for those who prefer games in pristine condition, as it involves writing on the board, ripping up cards, and applying permanent stickers. For fans of the original Risk or those looking to experience a game with a meaningful legacy system, Risk Legacy offers a unique and engaging experience that evolves over time. However, it may not appeal to those who dislike dice-based games or need a game that can be easily joined mid-campaign.

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