Oathsworn: Into the Deepwood
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- Designer Jamie Jolly
- Publisher Shadowborne Games , Hobby World , Rawstone
- Illustration Francesca Baerald , Vladimir Buchyk , Sean Jackson , Dongjun Lu , Dongbiao Lu
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 lead a Free Company into the Deepwood where narrative choices alternate with multi-phase boss encounters and miniature combat. Sessions follow a multi-path game book that unfolds toward scripted, inevitable confrontations. Combat mixes exploding-dice push-your-luck with a euro-style cooldown system called 'Battleflow', while the campaign grants levels, loot and allies over time.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at experienced players and groups who enjoy story-driven campaigns; solo play is supported (1 player). With an approximate 90-minute playtime and a 14+ age recommendation, it suits players ready for longer, tactical narrative sessions.
How It Works
Oathsworn uses mechanics like Action Points, Hand Management, Deck/Pool Building, Dice Rolling and cooperative play. Gameplay switches between choices in the game book and tactical encounters against AI-driven enemies on the encounter board. Players manage cards and resources, spend action points and resolve dice results, with the exploding-dice push-your-luck adding tension to attacks.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Jamie Jolly, Oathsworn is a narrative dungeon crawler with miniatures and a campaign structure. It won the 2022 Board Game Quest Awards Best Cooperative Game and received several nominations, including Golden Geek nods in 2022.
Awards
2022
- 2023 Goblin Magnifico — Nominated
- 2022 Board Game Quest Awards Best Cooperative Game — Winner
- 2022 Board Game Quest Awards Best Production Values — Nominated
Pro
- Strong narrative through a multi-path game book and campaign progression
- Cooperative campaign experience with solo option
- Tactical, multi-phase boss encounters and miniature combat
- Innovative mix of exploding dice and Battleflow cooldowns
Contra
- Longer playtime (~90 minutes) requires session commitment
- Learning curve due to layered mechanics and campaign structure
Setting & atmosphere
The game is set in the Deepwood, a dark fantasy forest where the Oathsworn fight unnatural horrors and the dangers of the woods. The theme emphasizes exploration and combat encounters.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on understanding the campaign flow and Battleflow cooldowns; play early scenarios deliberately to learn how cards, resources and dice interact.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Yes. The game supports solo play (1 player).
How long does a game really take?
The listed duration is about 90 minutes; setup and campaign decisions can add extra time.
What prior experience do I need?
Some experience with cooperative or campaign-driven games helps, as multiple mechanics (deck/pool building, action points, dice) interact.
How does this compare to similar games?
Oathsworn combines a narrative game-book structure with scripted multi-phase boss fights and a distinctive exploding-dice system plus Battleflow cooldowns.
Is this suitable for families?
With a 14+ age recommendation and more complex mechanics, it's better suited to families with older teens or experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The exploding-dice push-your-luck mechanic combined with the Battleflow cooldown system is the game's standout mechanic.
Fazit
If you want a cooperative, campaign-focused adventure with tactical miniature combat and narrative depth, Oathsworn is a solid pick. Expect longer sessions and a learning curve.
Oathsworn: Into the Deepwood at your next game night?
Add Oathsworn: Into the Deepwood to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Oathsworn: Into the Deepwood to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
