Shifting Realms (2018) Board Game

Shifting Realms is a board game released in 2018 that offers an adventure-filled experience in a fantasy world. Designed by JJ Ariosa, Conceptopolis, and Craig Van Ness, the game challenges players to explore different realms, gather resources, and compete for control over territories. With stunning artwork by Soaring Rhino, Shifting Realms immerses players in a vibrant and dynamic game universe.

Game Components of Shifting Realms

5 different realm boards (Alfheim, Tyrfing, Dovre, Libertatia, and Anunna)

Soldier and scout meeples in four different colors

Dragon mini

Wooden resource blocks

Story cards

Structure tiles

Realm-specific task cards

How To Setup Shifting Realms

To set up the game, players randomly select three out of the five available realm boards. These three boards form the map for the specific game session, offering 60 different possible layouts to enhance replayability. Each realm has its own distinct theme, such as the troll king’s realm of Dovre and the pirate-themed Libertatia. Players choose a faction of Keepers, each represented by a different color, and begin with a set of scouts and soldiers.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Worker Placement: Players can recruit units, move soldiers and scouts, build structures, and draw story cards.

Area Control: Players compete to control different areas of the realms.

Hand Management: Managing story cards and task cards is crucial.

Resource Collection/Management: Collecting resources to build structures and execute actions.

Game Objective: The game ends when two out of the three realms’ end conditions are met or when all structures in the realms have been built. The player with the most victory points, earned through building structures and completing realm-specific missions, wins.

Player Experience

Playing Shifting Realms is a dynamic and strategic experience. The game balances multiple mechanics seamlessly, allowing players to adjust their strategy as they progress. The optional combat mechanic adds a layer of tension, as players must decide whether to engage in battles or focus on building and resource collection. The unique setup of each game session ensures high replayability.

Pros

High Replayability: 60 different possible layouts due to the random selection of realm boards.

Balanced Mechanics: The combination of worker placement, area control, hand management, and resource management works fluidly.

Optional Combat: Allows players to choose whether to engage in battles or focus on other strategies.

Thematic Depth: Each realm has a distinct theme and lore.

Well-Designed Components: Attractive artwork and detailed miniatures.

Cons

Resource Components: The use of wooden blocks for resources is less impressive compared to other components.

Complex Setup: While the game’s mechanics are balanced, the initial setup can be complex for new players.

Personal Thoughts on Shifting Realms

Shifting Realms is ideal for players who enjoy medium-weight games with a mix of strategy and thematic depth. It is suitable for families and casual gamers who are looking to introduce new players to more complex board games. The game’s balance and replayability make it a great addition to any board game collection, especially for those who appreciate a blend of different game mechanics.

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