The Arrival (2016) Board Game

The Arrival board game was released in 2016 and is designed for 2-4 players. It falls under the category of ancient, civilization, mythology, and territory building games. The game designers include Robert Altbauer, JJ Ariosa, Rica Bünning, and Kamila Szutenberg, with artwork by Cryptozoic Entertainment and Game’s Up.

Game Components of The Arrival

Game board depicting Érin

Player boards

Resource cards with three sections each

Corruption Points

Fame Points

Tribe tokens

Fomori tokens

Fortification and other action tokens

How To Setup The Arrival

To set up the game, players first place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a tribe leader and places their tokens on the board according to the starting locations indicated. The resource cards are shuffled, and each player draws a set number of cards. The Corruption and Fame Point tracks are also set up. The Fomori tokens are placed on their designated areas on the board, reflecting their initial control over Érin.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Earning Phase: Players draw four resource cards, each showing three sections of different resources. They block two sections, leaving one section to determine their resources for the round.

Action Phase: Players use their resources to perform various actions such as building fortifications, repelling Fomori, and spreading their tribe.

Corruption vs. Fame: Gaining more resources can result in more Corruption Points, which strengthen the Fomori. Conversely, gaining fewer resources reduces Corruption but may limit the player’s progress.

Game End: The game ends after 4-6 rounds or when a player reaches the corruption limit. The winner is either the player with the highest amount of Fame Points or the fewest Corruption Points, depending on whether the tribes or the Fomori control more locations.

Player Experience

In The Arrival, players are immersed in a strategic battle for control of Érin, balancing the need for resources against the risk of corruption. Each round presents meaningful choices, requiring players to weigh the benefits of rapid expansion against the dangers of empowering the Fomori. The game’s unique resource management system and the dual tracks for Fame and Corruption add a layer of complexity and depth, making it engaging for fans of strategic gameplay.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Offers complex and meaningful strategic decisions.

Balanced Mechanics: The resource management and corruption system create a challenging yet rewarding gameplay experience.

Thematic Immersion: The game’s setting in ancient Ireland and the battle against the Fomori provide a rich thematic background.

Replayability: Multiple paths to victory and variable player powers enhance replayability.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players due to the intricate mechanics.

Length: Game sessions can last between 75-90 minutes, which may deter those looking for quicker games.

Corruption Mechanic: Some players might find the corruption system too punishing, leading to a steep learning curve.

Personal Thoughts on The Arrival

The Arrival is a game tailored for fans of strategic board games who appreciate deep decision-making and thematic immersion. It is ideal for players who enjoy games with complex mechanics and are willing to invest time in mastering the strategies. The game’s balance between resource management and corruption makes it a great choice for those who like to balance risk and reward. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those seeking a quick, light-hearted experience.

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