Warhammer Underworlds: Nightvault (2018) Board Game

Warhammer Underworlds: Nightvault is a strategic card and miniatures game set in the Warhammer universe. Released in 2018 by Games Workshop Ltd., it is a standalone sequel to the original Warhammer Underworlds: Shadespire game. Nightvault introduces new warbands, mechanics, and gameplay elements to the series.

Game Components of Warhammer Underworlds: Nightvault

Warbands: Includes new warbands such as Stormsire’s Cursebreakers and the Thorns of the Briar Queen.

Cards: Hundreds of new cards, including gambit cards, magic cards, and upgrade cards.

Boards: New game boards compatible with the previous Shadespire set.

Dice: 11 dice in total, including 5 attack dice, 3 defence dice, and 3 magic dice.

Tokens and Counters: Various tokens and counters for tracking game state.

Miniatures: Highly detailed, snap-fit miniatures that are color-coded per warband.

How To Setup Warhammer Underworlds: Nightvault

To set up the game, players need to assemble the game boards, distribute the miniatures and tokens, and construct their decks. Each player selects a warband and builds their deck with power cards, objective cards, and any additional cards from expansions. The game boards are set up according to the scenario being played, and players determine the starting positions of their miniatures.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Players take turns activating a model, allowing actions such as moving, charging, attacking, or going on guard. After each activation, players enter a power step where they can play cards from their hand.

Card Types: Ploy cards (now referred to as gambit cards), upgrade cards, and magic cards (introduced in Nightvault) which can significantly impact gameplay.

Inspire Mechanic: Certain warbands have an inspire mechanic, where meeting specific conditions enhances their abilities.

Objective Cards: Players must achieve objectives to score points, which can be influenced by the cards played during the game.

Magic: Introduced in Nightvault, magic adds a new layer of strategy and complexity to the game.

Player Experience

Warhammer Underworlds: Nightvault offers a deeply tactical and strategic gameplay experience. Players need to carefully manage their deck and miniatures to outmaneuver their opponents. The game requires foresight and clever use of cards to succeed. The addition of magic in Nightvault adds a fresh layer of complexity, appealing to both new and veteran players.

Pros

Highly Detailed Miniatures: The miniatures are of high quality and have a lot of character.

Deep Strategic Depth: The game involves extensive deck-building and tactical planning.

Compatibility: Fully compatible with the previous Shadespire set, allowing players to use all their existing cards and warbands.

Replayability: The game has a lot of replayability due to the numerous card combinations and warbands available.

Cons

Learning Curve: The game can be intimidating for new players, especially those without prior experience in wargames or deck-building games.

Balance Issues: With the introduction of new cards and mechanics, there can be balance issues, particularly if players have differing levels of investment in the game.

Personal Thoughts on Warhammer Underworlds: Nightvault

Warhammer Underworlds: Nightvault is ideal for players who enjoy strategic gameplay, deck-building, and competitive miniatures gaming. It is particularly suited for those who have already invested in the Warhammer Underworlds series, as it builds upon existing mechanics and adds new layers of complexity. New players can also find it engaging, especially with the introduction of magic and new warbands, but may need to invest some time in learning the game’s intricacies.

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.