Saboteur: The Duel (2014) Board Game

Saboteur: The Duel is a standalone two-player version of the popular card game Saboteur, which was originally released in in 2014. Designed by Fréderic Moyersoen, this version of the game was released in 2014 by AMIGO. The game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the roles of dwarves mining for gold, but some players may secretly be saboteurs trying to prevent their opponents from reaching the treasure.

Game Components of Saboteur: The Duel

36 Path Cards

18 Action Cards

18 Goal Cards

2 Dwarf Cards

2 Dwarf Playing Pieces with bases

8 Dwarf Counter Tokens

2 Keys

Instructions

How To Setup Saboteur: The Duel

To set up the game, each player starts with a start card, and six goal cards are placed face down in a pyramidal arrangement. Each player is dealt a hand of six cards. The playing area is then expanded by playing path cards to build pathways connecting the start cards to the goal cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Card Placement: Players build pathways using path cards.

Hand Management: Players manage their cards to optimize their moves.

Action Cards: Used to hinder opponents or repair equipment.

Sabotage: Action cards can block opponents’ progress.

Game Objective

The objective is to be the dwarf with the most gold at the end of three rounds.

Players must skillfully deploy cards to build pathways and block their opponent’s movement.

Goal cards contain variable amounts of gold, and players must navigate obstacles like doors, rock slides, and a greedy troll.

Player Experience

**Saboteur: The Duel** is a game of strategic sabotage and clever path-building. It’s a “take that” style game where players will often find themselves at odds, trying to outmaneuver each other. The game requires players to think ahead, plan their routes, and adapt to their opponent’s moves. The interactions can be intense and fun, with a mix of cooperation and competition, especially when paths merge and players must navigate common obstacles.

Pros

Easy to learn and quick to set up.

Fast-paced gameplay, typically lasting 30 minutes.

Suitable for ages 8 and above.

Includes a solo mode for single-player fun.

Cute, cartoony artwork and compact packaging.

Cons

High level of direct conflict, which may not be suitable for all players.

Significant luck of the draw, especially with sabotage and repair cards.

Requires a good amount of table or floor space to lay out the maze.

Personal Thoughts on Saboteur: The Duel

**Saboteur: The Duel** is perfect for those who enjoy competitive, two-player games with a mix of strategy and sabotage. It’s ideal for couples or friends who can handle a bit of friendly rivalry. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking a cooperative or peaceful gaming experience. The game’s balance of strategy and luck makes it engaging and challenging, but it can also lead to frustration if the cards don’t fall in your favor. Overall, it’s a great addition to any collection looking for a fun, head-to-head card game.

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