Guardians
- Designer Keith Parkinson , Luke Peterschmidt
- Publisher FPG
- Illustration Christos Achilleos , Den Beauvais , Gerald Brom , Don Maitz , Rowena Morrill , Keith Parkinson
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Guardians, players control powerful Guardians and deploy creatures under shields to create a dynamic battlefield using terrain cards. Only hidden creatures can move and engage in detailed combat rounds. The goal is to control lands, destroy shields, or eliminate the opposing Guardian.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for players aged 12 and up, Guardians suits those who enjoy strategic fantasy CCGs with a moderate playtime of about 45 minutes. It is best for experienced players familiar with collectible card games rather than casual family play.
How It Works
Each player starts with a Guardian and places three stronghold cards as bases. Terrain cards form adjacent battlefield spaces. Creatures placed under shields move up to two spaces and engage in secret combat selections. Battles are resolved through rounds of creature duels until one side remains, with winners assigned to support others. Victory is achieved by control or destruction objectives.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Keith Parkinson and Luke Peterschmidt, Guardians blends collectible card game mechanics with board game style secret unit deployment. Published by FPG in 1995, it stands out through its hidden movement and detailed combat system within the CCG family.
Pro
- Combines collectible card game with board game elements
- Tactical combat with hidden unit movement (Secret Unit Deployment)
- Relatively short playtime of about 45 minutes
- Strong fantasy theme
Contra
- Not suitable for beginners without card game experience
- No solo mode available
- Complex combat mechanics
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in a fantasy world where powerful Guardians and creatures battle for control over lands and strongholds, combining magical themes with tactical warfare.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on mastering movement and combat with hidden units before exploring advanced strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Guardians is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 45 minutes, suitable for shorter sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with collectible card games helps due to the tactical combat and secret unit deployment mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
Guardians uniquely blends CCG mechanics with board game hidden movement, differentiating it from classic CCGs.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and recommended age of 12+, it is better suited for experienced players than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The secret unit deployment mechanic enables hidden movement and surprise tactical battles.
Fazit
Guardians is recommended for players seeking a tactical and strategic fantasy CCG with hidden units. It requires some learning but offers varied combat and strategic depth.







