The Grizzled (2015) Board Game

The Grizzled is a cooperative card game that takes place during World War I. Designed by Fabien Riffaud and Juan Rodriguez, it was released in 2015 and published by Sweet Games. The game’s artwork, done by Tignous, adds a somber and reflective tone to the overall experience.

Game Components of The Grizzled

6 Grizzled Cards

59 Trial Cards

16 Support Tiles

5 Speech Tokens

1 Mission Leader Token

1 Game Aid

1 Peace Card

1 Monument Card

Beautiful and unique art by French artist Tignous.

How To Setup The Grizzled

To set up the game, players first shuffle the trial deck and place it within reach. Each player selects a Grizzled card, which represents their soldier, and receives a set of support tokens. The morale deck and the mission leader token are also prepared. The goal is to survive the trials of war until the armistice is reached, symbolized by emptying the trial deck and players’ hands.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative Gameplay: Players work together to survive the war.

Hand Management: Players draw and play cards from their hands to avoid matching threats.

Mission Leader: Decides the number of cards to draw each round.

Threats and Hard Knocks: Players face various threats and lasting hard knocks that handicap their soldiers.

Support Tokens: Players use secret support tokens to help each other manage hard knocks.

Mission Success/Failure: Missions fail if three of the same threats are played; success requires all players to withdraw or clear their hands without matching threats.

Objective: Empty the trial deck and players’ hands to win the game.

Player Experience

Playing The Grizzled is an intense and emotionally charged experience. Each decision feels critical, and the inability to discuss support tokens or hand contents adds a layer of tension. The game requires strategic thinking and careful planning, making every move feel like it could make or break the mission. The theme of surviving World War I is powerfully conveyed, and the art by Tignous enhances the game’s emotional impact.

Pros

Cooperative and Tense Gameplay: Encourages teamwork and critical decision-making.

Historical Immersion: Effectively captures the hardships and camaraderie of soldiers in World War I.

Compact and Portable: Easy to transport and set up.

Unique Art: Beautiful and fitting artwork by Tignous.

Avoids Alpha Gamer Problem: No player can direct others due to the secrecy of hand contents and support tokens.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Initial rules can be complex for new players.

Limited Player Count: Best with 2-5 players, limiting larger gatherings.

Repetitive Arc: Each game follows a similar arc, which may become familiar after several playthroughs.

Serious Theme: Can be emotionally taxing due to its dark and serious subject matter.

Personal Thoughts on The Grizzled

The Grizzled is ideal for fans of cooperative and historical games who appreciate intense, strategic gameplay. It is not for everyone, especially those who prefer lighter themes or more dynamic gameplay experiences. However, for those who value a game that conveys powerful emotions and fosters a strong sense of teamwork, The Grizzled is a standout choice. Despite its challenges and serious theme, it offers a deeply immersive and rewarding experience that celebrates the enduring power of friendship and camaraderie in the face of adversity.

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