Wallenstein (2002) Board Game

Wallenstein is a board game released in 2002, designed by Jörg Asselborn and Christof Tisch. It is categorized as an economic, pike and shot, territory building, and wargame. The game is designed for 3-5 players, with a runtime of approximately 150 minutes. The game’s unique Cube Tower mechanic adds an element of randomness and excitement to the gameplay.

Game Components of Wallenstein

Game Board: Representing the map of Europe during the Thirty Years’ War.

County Cards: Used for assigning actions.

Action Cards: Shuffled and laid out each season, with five face-up and the rest face-down.

Bonus Tiles: Provide extra money, grain, or armies.

Army Units and Peasants: Colored wooden cubes used in the dice tower for combat and revolts.

Dice Tower: Mechanism for resolving combat and revolts.

Expansions: Includes Emperor’s Court, Landsknechte, Military Leaders, and Office.

How To Setup Wallenstein

The game starts with the distribution of provinces, which can be set up using the recommended distribution to create an interesting patchwork of areas. Each player controls several countries, and the initial setup includes assigning county cards, laying out action cards, and distributing bonus tiles. Players also bid for player order and the choice of bonus tile.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Action Phases: Players take actions in the spring, summer, and fall, using county cards to assign actions secretly.

Combat and Revolts: Resolved using the dice tower, where army units and peasants are dropped in and the outcome is determined by which ones emerge.

Resource Management: Players must manage grain to avoid shortages and revolts in the winter.

Scoring: Points are awarded for land and buildings under a player’s control at the end of each year.

Game Duration: The game lasts two “years,” with the player having the most points at the end declared the winner.

Player Experience

Wallenstein offers a highly interactive and suspenseful experience, particularly due to the hidden action mechanism where players do not know where their opponents will attack. The game is full of twists and turns, especially in the later stages, where the sequence of actions becomes crucial. It is praised for its balance of wargaming and Euro elements, making it enjoyable for a variety of players. The game supports up to 5 players, which adds to the complexity and excitement.

Pros

High Replayability: With multiple expansions and a complex setup, the game offers a lot of variability.

Interactivity: Players are constantly engaged due to the hidden actions and dynamic combat system.

Balance of Mechanics: Successfully combines area control, resource management, and combat.

Supports Up to 5 Players: Enhances the social and competitive aspects of the game.

Cons

Complex Setup: Requires some time to set up and understand the rules.

Luck Factor: The dice tower introduces an element of luck, which might not appeal to all players.

Length: While not excessively long, the game still requires a significant time commitment.

Personal Thoughts on Wallenstein

Wallenstein is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games with a blend of area control and resource management. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate games with a historical theme and complex mechanics. The game’s ability to support up to 5 players makes it a great addition to any board game group, offering a fun and challenging experience that will keep players coming back for more.

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.