Small World: Realms (2012) – Board Game Guys

Small World Realms

“Small World Realms” is an expansion for the popular board game “Small World” designed by Philippe Keyaerts and published by Days of Wonder. The game was initially released in 2009 and has since won several awards, including Games magazine’s 2010 Game of the Year. The expansion pack includes scores of puzzle-like geomorphic terrain regions that can be assembled into variously sized and shaped board maps.

Why is Small World Realms Popular?

“Small World Realms” is popular and significant because it adds new content and gameplay options to the original “Small World” game. It includes 12 pre-made scenarios and rules/hints for creating your own maps and scenarios, allowing players to explore new combinations of races and powers. The expansion pack also features double-sided hexagonal pieces, which can be used to create maps for both “Small World” and “Small World: Underground”. This versatility and the ability to create unique game experiences make “Small World Realms” an attractive addition to the game collection.

Game Components of Small World: Realms

Hexagonal terrain regions for custom map creation

Tunnel tokens to connect original **Small World** maps to **Small World Underground** maps

Scenarios and rules for setup

New Righteous Relics and Popular Places for additional bonuses

Team play rules and components.

How To Setup Small World: Realms

To set up **Small World: Realms**, players start by building their gameboard using the hexagonal terrain regions. These regions are puzzle-like and geomorphic, allowing for a wide variety of map configurations. The game includes 12 scenarios that provide specific instructions on how to put together the maps and any additional setup requirements. Players can also incorporate tunnel tokens to integrate the new maps with existing ones from **Small World** and **Small World Underground**.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Map-Building: Players create the gameboard using hexagonal terrain regions.

Territory Control: Players capture territories using race tokens, considering special abilities and defending tokens.

Variable Player Powers: Each race has unique abilities and scoring opportunities.

Team Play: Optional rules for team play, including new relics and places.

Objective: The goal is to score the most points by controlling territories, with the game ending after a set number of turns.

Player Experience

**Small World: Realms** enhances the original game by offering more flexibility and variety in map creation. Players can engage in strategic planning and adaptive gameplay as they navigate through different terrains and scenarios. The addition of team play and new relics adds a fresh layer of complexity and cooperation.

Pros

High Replayability: Customizable maps and multiple scenarios ensure no two games are the same.

Enhanced Strategy: New terrains and team play rules add depth to the gameplay.

Integration with Other Expansions: Compatible with other **Small World** expansions, expanding the game’s universe.

Variable Player Powers: Keeps the game engaging with unique abilities for each race.

Cons

Complex Setup: Building custom maps can be time-consuming and complex.

Steep Learning Curve: New mechanics and scenarios may require additional time to learn.

Requires Base Game: Not a standalone expansion; requires the original **Small World** game.

Personal Thoughts on Small World: Realms

**Small World: Realms** is ideal for fans of the original **Small World** game who are looking to add more variety and depth to their gameplay experience. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy strategic planning, map-building, and variable player powers. The expansion is great for those who appreciate a high level of replayability and are willing to invest time in learning new mechanics and scenarios. However, it may not be the best fit for new players to the series, as it requires a solid understanding of the base game.

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