Risk: The Dalek Invasion of Earth (2014) Board Game

Risk: The Dalek Invasion of Earth is a board game based on the popular science fiction television series Doctor Who. The game was released in 2014 by Hasbro and The Op Games, bringing together the classic territory-building gameplay of Risk with the iconic Daleks from the Doctor Who series. Players take on the role of the Doctor and his companions, working together to defeat the Daleks and save Earth from invasion.

Game Components of Risk: The Dalek Invasion of Earth

Gameboard: A map of Earth divided into 42 territories connected by borders or sea lines.

3 Classic Dalek Armies and 2 New Dalek Paradigm Armies.

1 TARDIS token.

42 Territory Cards.

15 Power Cards.

10 Mission Cards.

5 Dice.

Cardboard Clara token.

Regeneration Strip representing the Doctor’s 11 regenerations.

How To Setup Risk: The Dalek Invasion of Earth

To set up the game, each player selects a Dalek army and places it off the board in front of them. Players decide who goes first, then shuffle and deal the 42 Territory Cards among the players. Each player places 3 Daleks in each territory they have been dealt. After placing Daleks, the Territory Cards are returned to a single deck and shuffled. Mission Cards and Power Cards are also shuffled and dealt to each player. Clara is placed on the First Doctor space on the Regeneration Strip.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Territory Control: Players place Daleks in territories to control them. The more territories controlled, the more Dalek troops a player can place.

Dice Combat: Combat is resolved using dice rolls, with the attacker having more dice but the defender winning tie breakers.

Power and Mission Cards: Players can use Power Cards to boost their forces or hinder opponents, and complete Mission Cards to earn extra units.

Doctor’s Intervention: The Doctor lands in a different territory each turn, preventing any combat or movement there. The game ends with the Doctor’s eleventh regeneration, forcing all Daleks to retreat.

Objective: The goal is to be the last Dalek army standing after all opposition has been eliminated and the ancient artifact, the Heart of Darkness, is found.

Player Experience

Playing **Risk: The Dalek Invasion of Earth** is an immersive experience that combines strategic planning with the excitement of the Doctor Who universe. Players must balance expanding their territory, completing missions, and managing the unpredictable interventions of the Doctor. The game is designed for 2-5 players and typically lasts between 2-3 hours, making it a substantial but engaging game night activity.

Pros

Thematic Integration: The game seamlessly integrates Doctor Who elements, making it a delight for fans of the series.

Strategic Depth: Combines classic Risk mechanics with unique Power and Mission Cards, adding layers of strategy.

Variety in Armies: Players can choose from five different Dalek armies, each with distinct characteristics.

Cons

Balance Issues: The game has significant balance problems, particularly with the trade-in system for units, which can lead to snowballing armies.

Card Design: The identical illustrations on the backs of Territory, Mission, and Power Cards can be confusing.

Instruction Clarity: Some players have found the instructions to be vague and full of typos, which can complicate gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on Risk: The Dalek Invasion of Earth

This game is ideal for fans of Doctor Who and those who enjoy strategic board games. However, due to its balance issues and some design flaws, it may not be the best choice for casual gamers or those seeking a perfectly balanced game. For enthusiasts who are willing to adapt the rules to improve balance, **Risk: The Dalek Invasion of Earth** offers a unique and engaging gaming experience.

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