Runebound: Second Edition
- Designer Darrell Hardy , Martin Wallace
- Publisher Fantasy Flight Games , Arclight Games , Beacon Multimedia S.A. , Delta Vision Publishing , Galakta
- Illustration Andy Brase , Jesper Ejsing , Louis Frank , John Goodenough , Kurt Miller , John Moriarty
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Runebound: Second Edition, players take on the roles of heroes exploring the realms of Terrinoth. You move across a hexagon grid using a unique terrain dice system, complete quests to gain experience, and equip powerful weapons and allies to defeat the Dragonlord Margath. Combat unfolds in three phases—ranged, melee, and magic—and players can specialize their characters with variable powers. The game mixes area movement, dice rolling, and role-playing mechanics for an immersive adventure.
Who Is This Game For?
Runebound is designed for experienced gamers looking for a complex fantasy adventure lasting around four hours. It's not a family game and requires some familiarity with board games of medium to high complexity. The game supports 2 to 6 players but does not include a solo mode, so groups are necessary.
How It Works
Players navigate the map using area movement on a hexagonal grid, guided by terrain dice rolls. Variable player powers allow character specialization in combat styles. Battles are resolved in three phases: ranged, melee, and magic, with dice rolling (two 10-sided dice) determining outcomes. Open drafting lets players select cards to improve their gear and abilities, creating strategic depth.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Martin Wallace and Darrell Hardy, Runebound: Second Edition was nominated for the 2006 Japan Boardgame Prize Best Japanese Game. It belongs to the Runebound series by Fantasy Flight Games and is notable for replacing the original d20 with two d10 dice to balance luck and its innovative terrain dice movement system, blending RPG elements with tactical combat.
Awards
2006
- 2009 Juego del Año Tico — Winner
Pro
- Deep role-playing with variable player powers
- Innovative terrain dice movement system
- Three-phase combat system (ranged, melee, magic)
- Part of the expansive Runebound series with many expansions
Contra
- Long playtime around 240 minutes
- Supports only 2 to 6 players, no solo mode
- Requires patience and experience due to complex rules
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in the fantasy world of Terrinoth, filled with magic, dragons, and dangerous creatures. Players embark on epic quests and battles against formidable foes like the Dragonlord Margath.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start by focusing on gaining experience and building your character before challenging the final boss.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Runebound: Second Edition requires 2 to 6 players and does not have a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts around 240 minutes; be sure to allocate enough time including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
This is a medium to heavy complexity game suited for experienced players familiar with tactical and role-playing games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Runebound combines area movement on a hex grid with a unique three-phase combat system and variable player powers, differentiating it from other fantasy adventure games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and long duration, it is better suited for adult gamers and not recommended as a family game.
What mechanic makes it special?
The terrain dice movement system combined with three-phase combat and variable player powers defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Runebound: Second Edition offers a deep, thematic fantasy adventure ideal for fans of role-playing games. Due to its length and complexity, it is less suited for casual or family gaming sessions.
