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Wizards of the Wild (2015) Board Game

Brief History and Background Information for Wizards of the Wild

Wizards of the Wild is a card game released in 2015, designed by Shawna J.C. Tenney and published by CrossCut Games. It falls under the categories of Animals, Card Game, Dice, and Fantasy, and incorporates mechanisms such as Dice Rolling, Open Drafting, Set Collection, and Variable Player Powers. The game is designed for 1-4 players and has a playing time of around 30 minutes. It is recommended for players aged 10 and above.

Game Components of Wizards of the Wild

  • Deck of cards featuring various animals and spells
  • Custom dice
  • Player boards
  • Tokens

How To Setup Wizards of the Wild

  • Shuffle the deck of cards and deal a starting hand to each player.
  • Place the dice and tokens within reach of all players.
  • Set up the player boards in the center of the playing area.
  • Choose a starting player and begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Players take on the role of wizards competing to collect magical creatures and spells. They do this by rolling dice, drafting cards, and strategically using their special powers. The objective is to collect the most valuable creatures and spells to earn points and win the game.

Player Experience

Pros:

  • Engaging gameplay that combines strategy and luck
  • Variable player powers add replay value
  • Beautiful artwork and theme

Cons:

  • Can be complex for younger players
  • Limited player interaction

Personal Thoughts on Wizards of the Wild

Wizards of the Wild is a solid card game with an interesting theme and engaging gameplay. The combination of dice rolling and card drafting keeps things exciting, and the variable player powers add depth to the strategy. However, the game may be a bit too complex for younger players, and the limited player interaction could be a drawback for some. Overall, Wizards of the Wild is worth checking out for fans of card games and fantasy themes, but may not be suitable for everyone. It is available at a reasonable price for both new and used copies, making it accessible to a wide range of players. If you enjoy games with a mix of luck and strategy, Wizards of the Wild could be a good fit for your collection.

Game Components of Wizards of the Wild

  • 6 Wizard player boards (double-sided)
  • 1 score board
  • 32 wooden markers (in 4 different colors, 8 per color)
  • 18 “Level One” Spell cards
  • 18 “Level Two” Spell cards
  • 18 “Level One” Challenge cards
  • 18 “Level Two” Challenge cards
  • 8 Acolyte cards
  • 6 custom six-sided Sorcery dice

    How To Setup Wizards of the Wild

    To set up the game, each player selects a Wizard and chooses a side of their card to utilize, each with two special abilities. Players choose a color for their markers and set them to the base values indicated on the card. The score board is placed within reach, and players set their markers on the score board and resource tracks accordingly. The Spell and Challenge decks are organized, with two cards from each forming a face-up market. The Acolyte deck is placed nearby to mark the conditions for each round.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Player Turn: Roll Sorcery dice three times, keeping and re-rolling dice as needed.
  • Resource Management: Combine dice results with stored values on the Wizard card to exercise Spells, hit the Market, and bribe Acolytes.
  • Market: Purchase Spells and Challenges using Tomes and Arcane resources.
  • Spells: Divided into Sorcery, Enchantment, and Shadow, each with different effects and costs.
  • Challenges: Grant single-use and endgame bonuses.
  • Acolyte: Revealed at the start of each round, can be bribed for Victory Points.
  • Objective: Accumulate Victory Points by purchasing and utilizing Spells and Challenges, while managing resources and avoiding penalties from the Acolyte.

    Player Experience

    Players embody animal wizards, each with unique special powers, battling in a magical showdown at Stonehenge. The game requires strategic thinking and resource management as players aim to build powerful spell combinations and outmaneuver their opponents. The dynamic market and random Acolyte effects add a layer of unpredictability, keeping the game engaging and challenging.

    Pros

  • Variety and Strategy: Deep card relationships and multiple paths to victory.
  • Engaging Mechanics: Combination of dice rolling and card play.
  • Thematic Fun: Unique animal wizards and a magical setting.
  • Solo Option: Includes a solo mode where the player competes against an opposing Wizard.
  • Expansions: Seamless integration of new features like Familiars and Location cards.

    Cons

  • Complexity for New Players: Initial setup and rules can be overwhelming.
  • Luck Factor: Dice rolls can introduce randomness that affects strategy.
  • Limited Player Count: Designed for 2-4 players, with no option for a 5th player in the basic edition.

    Personal Thoughts on Wizards of the Wild

    **Wizards of the Wild** is perfect for fans of engine-building games and those who enjoy a mix of luck and strategy. It’s ideal for players who appreciate thematic depth and the challenge of managing multiple resources and abilities. The game’s short playtime and varied gameplay make it a great addition to any board game collection, especially for those who enjoy magical and whimsical settings.

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