Stronghold: 2nd edition (2015) Board Game

Stronghold: 2nd edition is a fantasy board game designed by Ignacy Trzewiczek and published by Portal Games in in 2015. It is a two-player game set in a medieval fantasy world where one player takes on the role of the defending humans, while the other plays as the invading orcs. The game is known for its asymmetric gameplay, where each player has unique abilities and goals.

Game Components of Stronghold: 2nd edition

Game board

Player boards

Tokens and markers

Cards

Dice

Rulebook

How To Setup Stronghold: 2nd edition

Set up the game board in the center of the table.

Each player chooses their side and takes their corresponding player board and components.

Place the tokens and markers in their designated areas on the board.

Shuffle the cards and place them within reach of both players.

Follow the setup instructions for the specific scenario being played.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Stronghold: 2nd edition, the defending player must fortify their stronghold and withstand the onslaught of the invading player’s forces. The invading player must breach the walls and defeat the defenders within a set number of rounds. Players take turns using action points to move their units, build structures, and engage in combat. The game ends when one side achieves their victory conditions.

Player Experience

Pros

Deep strategic gameplay with asymmetric factions

Immersive theme and artwork

Engaging player interaction and combat mechanics

Cons

Steep learning curve for new players

Setup and cleanup can be time-consuming

Limited replayability with only two players

Personal Thoughts on Stronghold: 2nd edition

Stronghold: 2nd edition is a well-designed and immersive board game that offers a unique gaming experience for two players. The asymmetric gameplay adds depth and replay value, making each game session feel fresh and challenging. However, the learning curve may be steep for beginners, and the game’s setup can be cumbersome. Overall, Stronghold: 2nd edition is worth the investment for fans of fantasy, fighting, and medieval-themed games. It may not be suitable for casual gamers or those looking for larger group settings.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.