The Stars Are Right (2008) Board Game

The Stars Are Right is a board game designed by Klaus Westerhoff and published by Black Monk in in 2008. It falls under the horror and puzzle categories, featuring hand management, modular board, pattern building, pattern recognition, and tile placement mechanics. The game is designed for 2 to 4 players, with a playtime of around 55 minutes and suitable for players aged 12 and up.

Game Components of The Stars Are Right

80 cards

25 double-sided tiles

Rulesheet

How To Setup The Stars Are Right

To set up the game, players arrange the double-sided tiles into a grid. Each player starts with a hand of cards, which they will use to manipulate the tiles and summon various Lovecraftian creatures. The objective is to create specific patterns on the grid that allow for the summoning of more powerful entities.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Mechanics: Tile flipping, row pushing, and tile swapping.

Game Objective: Players aim to create the correct patterns on the grid to summon minor creatures, eventually leading to the summoning of a Great Old One, which is the key to winning the game.

Summoning: Invoke minor creatures to flip over tiles or push rows, creating the needed patterns.

Servitors: Build a horde of Servitors to chain flips, pushes, and swaps, rearranging the grid.

Player Experience

Players start by bringing ghasts and ghouls back to reality, gradually escalating to more powerful entities. The game involves strategic planning and tile manipulation to achieve the desired patterns. The humorously illustrated cards add a light-hearted touch to the otherwise dark theme.

Pros

Engaging Mechanics: The game offers a unique blend of tile manipulation and strategy.

Thematic Appeal: Fans of the Cthulhu Mythos will appreciate the Lovecraftian theme.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for players aged 12 and up, making it accessible to a younger audience.

Quick Playtime: Games last less than an hour, ideal for a quick gaming session.

Cons

Complex Setup: The initial setup and understanding of the rules can be somewhat complex.

Luck Factor: The draw of cards can introduce an element of luck, which may not appeal to all players.

Limited Replayability: Some players may find the game repetitive after several plays.

Personal Thoughts on The Stars Are Right

The Stars Are Right is ideal for fans of Lovecraftian themes and those who enjoy abstract puzzle games with a strategic twist. It’s a great introduction to the Cthulhu Mythos for younger players and offers a fun, if somewhat complex, gaming experience for all ages. However, players seeking deep complexity or high replayability might find it less appealing.

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