Blood Rage
- Designer Eric M. Lang
- Publisher Cool Mini Or Not , Arclight Games , asmodee , Asterion Press , BoardM Factory
- Illustration Henning Ludvigsen , Thierry Masson , Mike McVey , Adrian Smith
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You command your clan's leader, warriors and ships across three ages as Ragnarok approaches. The game blends card drafting ('Gods' Gifts') with territory battles and card-based conflict resolution; battles hinge on both figure strength and secret card play. Objectives include glory through pillage, quests, clan upgrades or even a glorious death in battle. Draft choices shape strategies, but adaptation to opponents is crucial.
Who Is This Game For?
Blood Rage is a mid- to heavy-weight game for 2–4 players (age 14+) aimed at players who enjoy tactical combat, miniatures and drafting. With about 90 minutes playtime it fits a game-night session and rewards experience with area-control and card-driven conflict mechanics.
How It Works
Players draft cards at the start of each of three rounds to gain upgrades, quests or mythic allies (Closed Drafting). During action phases you move forces across regions (Area Movement) and contest control (Area Majority / Influence). Conflicts are resolved via Card Play Conflict Resolution where hidden cards and unit strength decide outcomes. Action Points and Contracts-like choices determine available actions and strategic options.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Eric M. Lang, Blood Rage combines high-quality miniatures with tactical Area Control and Closed Drafting. In 2015 it received the Board Game Quest Awards Best Tactical/Combat Game (winner) and several other nominations. The mix of drafting and secret-card combat sets it apart from pure area-control titles.
Awards
2016
- 2015 Board Game Quest Awards Best Production Values — Nominated
- 2015 Board Game Quest Awards Best Tactical/Combat Game — Winner
- 2015 Board Game Quest Awards Best Thematic Game — Nominated
- 2015 Board Game Quest Awards Game of the Year — Nominated
- 2015 Cardboard Republic Striker Laurel — Nominated
Pro
- Strong mix of Closed Drafting and Area Control for strategic depth
- Thematic integration of Norse myth and gods
- High production value and miniatures recognized by 2015 awards
- Tactical battles resolved by hidden card play add bluff and prediction
Contra
- Mechanically denser, requires time to learn
- ~90 minute playtime makes sessions moderately long
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in Norse mythology, clans vie for glory as Ragnarok nears. Gods' cards and mythological creatures shape the theme and strategic options.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on the draft early: the cards you pick define your options for the age; watch opponents to inform combat choices.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No. The game is designed for 2–4 players.
How long does a game really take?
Duration is listed as about 90 minutes; teaching and setup typically extend total time.
What prior experience do I need?
Familiarity with area-control and drafting mechanics is helpful; the game suits experienced hobby players.
How does this compare to similar games?
Blood Rage pairs Closed Drafting with miniature-based area control and secret card combat, distinguishing it from pure territory-control titles.
Is this suitable for families?
Given the 14+ age recommendation and complexity, it is better for older family members or experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Closed Drafting combined with Card Play Conflict Resolution (hidden cards in battles) is the standout mechanic.
Fazit
Recommended for players who like tactical battles, drafting and miniatures; newcomers should expect a learning curve due to intertwined drafting and combat systems.
