Dead Reckoning
- Designer John D. Clair
- Publisher Alderac Entertainment Group , Korea Boardgames , Tabletop KZ , YOKA Games
- Illustration Ian O'Toole
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Dead Reckoning, you command a ship and crew in a Caribbean-like setting. Explore uncharted waters, hunt treasures, and battle for control of islands. Customize your ship and develop your crew with an innovative card crafting system. Battles are resolved using a dynamic cube tower that adds unpredictability to combat outcomes.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is aimed at experienced and expert players aged 14 and up who enjoy complex, thematic games with long playtimes (around 150 minutes). It suits those patient enough for detailed rounds and familiar with deck-building and area control mechanics. A solo mode is included.
How It Works
Dead Reckoning combines Area Movement, Area Majority / Influence, and Deck, Bag, and Pool Building. You move your ship on a modular, unexplored board, strategically control islands, and upgrade your crew through transparent advancement cards placed in sleeves. Combat uses a Cube Tower mechanic influenced by crew cards and ship powers for varied outcomes.
What Makes It Special
Designed by John D. Clair, Dead Reckoning won the 2022 Origins Awards Best Thematic Game and was nominated for multiple Golden Geek awards. Its unique use of a Cube Tower for combat and transparent card sleevings distinguish it from other deck-building and exploration games.
Awards
2022
- 2023 American Tabletop Complex Games — Nominated
- 2022 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
- 2022 Origins Awards Best Thematic Game — Winner
Pro
- Innovative Cube Tower for combat resolution
- Complex deck-building and progression with transparent cards
- Thematic pirate world with exploration and area control
- Includes solo mode
Contra
- Long playtime around 150 minutes requires patience
- High complexity, less family-friendly
- Recommended for ages 14 and up
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in a Caribbean-like world where players act as pirates searching for treasure and controlling islands. The theme centers on seafaring, piracy, and exploration of unknown waters.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the complex mechanics and focus first on exploring and building your crew.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Dead Reckoning supports solo play for one player.
How long does a game really take?
The game lasts about 150 minutes; allow extra time for setup.
What prior experience do I need?
It is aimed at experienced players familiar with deck-building and area control.
How does this compare to similar games?
Dead Reckoning uses an innovative Cube Tower for combat and transparent progression cards, setting it apart.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and long playtime, it is better suited for hobbyists than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Cube Tower combat and transparent card sleeving are standout mechanics.
Fazit
Dead Reckoning is highly recommended for players seeking complex, thematic games with tactical depth and long sessions. It is less suitable for families or casual players due to its complexity.
