Black Rose Wars
- Designer Marco Montanaro
- Publisher Ludus Magnus Studio , Ares Games , Czacha Games , Delta Vision Publishing , Hobby World
- Illustration Fernando Armentano , Tommaso Incecchi , Henning Ludvigsen , Giovanni Pirrotta , Paolo Scippo
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players take on the role of powerful mages of the Black Rose Order battling in a hexagonal modular arena called "rooms". Each mage chooses spells from six magic schools, plans actions face down, then reveals cards to cast spells, summon creatures, and influence control areas. After defeat, mages are immediately reborn, keeping gameplay dynamic and tactical. The goal is to gain the most power and become Supreme Magister.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced players aged 14 and up who enjoy complex deck-building and strategic combat. With a playtime around 90 minutes, it requires tactical planning and patience. It is not designed as a family game but for those familiar with hand management and area influence mechanics.
How It Works
Black Rose Wars combines deck, bag, and pool building with hand management and area majority in a modular hex arena. Players plan actions in an action queue by selecting spells from six magic schools, then reveal cards to execute moves, cast spells, summon creatures, and control areas. The turn-based combat emphasizes pre-planning and reactive strategies among players.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Marco Montanaro, Black Rose Wars stands out with its unique dual-effect spells, mage rebirth mechanic, and modular arena. It was nominated for the 2023 Geek Media Awards Hardcore Game of the Year. As part of the Nova Aetas Chronicles with miniatures, it blends deckbuilding and tactical area movement distinctly from other fantasy games.
Awards
- 2023 Geek Media Awards Hardcore Game of the Year — Nominated
Pro
- Versatile deckbuilding with six magic schools
- Dynamic combat with mage rebirth
- Modular arena enabling tactical movement
- 2023 Geek Media Awards nominee
Contra
- No solo mode; supports 2-4 players only
- High complexity for new players
- Approximately 90 minutes game length requires commitment
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the fantasy world of Nova Aetas in Italy, players are mages of the Black Rose Order fighting for dominance using magic and dark enchantments within a Renaissance-inspired theme.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Familiarize yourself with the six magic schools and their dual effects to adapt your strategy flexibly.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Black Rose Wars supports 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, including setup and explanation.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced players familiar with deckbuilding and tactical combat.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its combination of modular arena, mage rebirth, and six distinct magic schools makes it unique.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and age recommendation, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families with children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The game features action queue, deckbuilding, area majority, and area movement mechanics.
Fazit
Black Rose Wars is recommended for experienced players seeking complex tactical deck-building combat. Its 90-minute duration suits longer game sessions but may be too demanding for families or novices.
