Melee
- Designer Rikki Tahta
- Publisher La Mame Games , Ferti , FoxGames , Heidelberger Spieleverlag , Indie Boards & Cards
- Illustration Xavier Gueniffey Durin
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Melee, you play a local baron or countess vying for the throne after the old king dies childless. You gather gold, recruit troops, and fight for castles and land. The game unfolds over four rounds with simultaneous action selection, where you choose to tax, build units, or attack. Combat involves a bluffing mechanic where the defender guesses how much gold the attacker spends to motivate troops.
Who Is This Game For?
Melee suits gamers who enjoy quick, tactical games with bluff elements. With a playing time of about 20 minutes, it fits players looking for fast strategic sessions. Recommended for ages 10 and up, it requires no extensive prior experience and supports 2 to 4 players.
How It Works
The game starts with a drafting phase to buy units and bid on special abilities. Each round, players simultaneously choose one action: tax, build, or attack. To attack, you move units into enemy areas and secretly decide how much gold to spend. The defender guesses the amount spent; a wrong guess means the attacker wins, a correct guess causes the attacker to lose the unit. The game ends immediately if a castle is captured or after four rounds with final scoring.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Rikki Tahta, Melee blends area majority, simultaneous action selection, and bluffing into a fast-paced conflict game. Part of the Kickstarter crowdfunding family, it features variable player powers and take-that elements for varied gameplay. Though without awards, it stands out by combining auction, bluff, and area control mechanics.
Pro
- Short playing time around 20 minutes for quick sessions
- Bluff mechanic during attacks adds tension
- Simultaneous action selection increases strategic depth
- Variable player powers provide variety
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Limited to 2 to 4 players
- Less suitable for younger children or casual players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in medieval Europe at the dawn of a new year, the old king has died without heirs. Players act as local nobles competing for the throne and control over castles and land.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Manage your gold carefully and pay attention to the bluffing aspect during attacks.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Melee 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 20 minutes, allowing for quick, compact play sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets gamers aged 10 and up and requires no extensive prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Melee combines simultaneous action selection with bluff mechanics and variable powers, differentiating it from classic area control games.
Is this suitable for families?
Given the age recommendation of 10 and the tactical depth, it is better suited for families with older children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of area majority, simultaneous action selection, and bluffing defines the gameplay.
Fazit
Melee is recommended for players who enjoy tactical, quick games with bluffing. Its clear mechanics and focus on simultaneous decisions make it engaging, though it’s less suited for those preferring complex or long games.
