Root (2018) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Root is a board game designed by Cole Wehrle and published by Leder Games in in 2018. It is set in a woodland world where various animal factions vie for control and dominance. The game has garnered critical acclaim for its unique asymmetrical gameplay and strategic depth.

Game Components of Root

Game board

Rulebook

Faction boards

Wooden player pieces

Cards

Tokens

Dice

How To Setup Root

Lay out the game board.

Each player selects a faction and takes their corresponding faction board and pieces.

Shuffle the cards and place them in a deck.

Place tokens and dice within reach.

Follow the setup instructions for each faction in the rulebook.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Root is a territory control game where players take on the roles of different animal factions, each with their own unique abilities and goals. Players must strategically expand their influence, build alliances, and combat rival factions to achieve victory. The game combines elements of area control, resource management, and negotiation.

The objective of Root is to be the first player to reach a set number of victory points, which can be earned through various actions such as controlling key areas on the board, completing objectives, or fulfilling faction-specific goals.

Player Experience

Pros

Engaging asymmetrical gameplay

Beautiful artwork and components

Strategic depth and replayability

Exciting player interaction and negotiation

Cons

Steep learning curve for new players

Can be overwhelming with multiple factions in play

Some factions may feel imbalanced

Personal Thoughts on Root

Root is a fantastic board game that offers a rich and immersive experience for players. The asymmetrical gameplay adds a layer of complexity and strategy that keeps the game fresh and engaging with each playthrough. The game’s components are of high quality, and the artwork is stunning.

While Root may not be suited for casual gamers due to its complexity, it is a must-have for those who enjoy deep strategy games with a high level of player interaction. The pricing for Root is reasonable considering the quality of components and gameplay it offers. Both new and used copies of the game are readily available, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

For those looking for alternatives or similar games, Root may appeal to fans of territory-building and negotiation games such as Scythe or Twilight Imperium. Overall, Root is definitely worth your time if you enjoy strategic board games and are looking for a unique and challenging experience. However, it may not be suitable for those who prefer simpler, more straightforward gameplay.

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