Rivals
Rivals at your next game night?
Add Rivals to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Léonard Ebel , Sami Jaafar , Baptiste Roux , Maxime Schio
- Publisher Unkind Games
- Illustration Quantum Rift , Baptiste Roux
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
You play the chosen one of your clan, explore a modular WildTech map and collect resources to craft, refine your deck and fight opponents. Rounds are divided into phases; parts of the map are destroyed over time, shrinking playable space. Win by being the last survivor or by obtaining five victory points through combat or purchasing them with resources.
Who Is This Game For?
Rivals targets experienced players who enjoy competitive interaction and deckbuilding; minimum age is 14. With an approximate 120‑minute playtime it is evening‑length and suits groups ready for longer, strategic sessions. Familiarity with deck construction and resource management helps.
How It Works
Rivals centers on Deck Construction combined with Action Points and Action Drafting: each turn players spend action points to move, collect resources, play cards or interact. The Modular Board evolves via Map Reduction, changing tactics as the game progresses. Combat uses cards that show cost, range and damage; resources let you craft shields, remove cards or buy victory points.
What Makes It Special
Designers Léonard Ebel, Sami Jaafar, Baptiste Roux and Maxime Schio mix deckbuilding with a shrinking, modular map to simulate a board‑game Battle Royale. The Map Reduction mechanic forces positional play and increases tension as the WildTech collapses. The combination of Resource to Move, Critical Hits and Events makes the interaction varied.
Pro
- Deckbuilding integrated with direct PvP combat
- Evolving modular map (Map Reduction) creates dynamic tension
- Multiple resource types enable diverse strategies
- Action Points system emphasizes tactical choices each turn
Contra
- Long playtime (~120 minutes)
- Mechanic mix requires learning and setup time
Setting & atmosphere
Science‑fiction setting in a hazardous WildTech environment where clans fight to survive. The map is modular and destructible; resources like Crystal/Resin and Interface are gathered to fuel deck and abilities.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on stabilizing your deck and gathering core resources; use action points deliberately rather than spreading too thin.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
No — the listed player count is 2–6; no solo mode is indicated.
How long does a game really take?
The listed duration is about 120 minutes; initial games with rule reading and setup may take longer.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with deckbuilding and resource/Action Points management is beneficial; the game leans toward experienced players.
How does this compare to similar games?
Rivals pairs deck construction with a shrinking modular board, distinguishing it from pure deckbuilders.
Is this suitable for families?
Minimum age is 14; due to complexity and length it is better suited to older teens and adults.
What mechanic makes it special?
The interplay of Deck Construction, Action Points and Map Reduction defines the core experience.
Fazit
Rivals is recommended for players who want deckbuilding plus direct PvP on a changing map. Players seeking quick, simple games or little prior experience may find the learning curve and duration challenging.
Rivals at your next game night?
Add Rivals to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Rivals to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
