Best Risk Strike: Game of Thrones Edition, Review game of thrones Buying Guide
Conquer Westeros (and Essos): A Deep Dive into Risk: Game of Thrones Edition
The clash of swords, the scheming of lords, and the bitter winds of winter—all hallmarks of George R.R. Martin’s epic saga, “A Song of Ice and Fire,” brought to life in the thrilling strategy game, Risk: Game of Thrones Edition. Forget vying for mere continents; here, you’re battling for control of Westeros and Essos, forging alliances, and betraying them just as quickly as any character in the books. This isn’t your grandpa’s Risk, played on a tired world map. This is Risk evolved, a game tailored for fans who crave a deeper, more immersive experience. But with two distinct versions available – the Westeros Edition and the Essos Edition – and various expansion packs, navigating the political landscape of buying the right game can feel as daunting as navigating the treacherous politics of King’s Landing. This guide will arm you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision and claim your rightful place on the Iron Throne (or at least, dominate the game board).
Two Kingdoms, Two Strategies: Westeros vs. Essos
The first decision you’ll face is choosing between the Westeros Edition and the Essos Edition. While both operate under the Risk: Game of Thrones Edition umbrella, they offer distinct gameplay experiences tailored to the respective continents. The Westeros Edition is arguably the more popular choice, focusing on the familiar territories and houses from the main storyline. It supports up to 5 players, each commanding a Great House (Lannister, Stark, Baratheon, Martell, or Tyrell), vying for control of key territories from the Wall to Dorne. The Essos Edition, on the other hand, caters to a different kind of power struggle, offering a more asymmetrical experience that supports up to 2 players fighting as Daenerys Targaryen or the Ghiscari slave masters, or up to 7 players in a combined game with the Westeros map using a “House” from the Essos side of the board. Essos is less about direct territorial conquest and more about economic control and influence, with a focus on cities like Meereen and Qarth.
The fundamental gameplay of both editions remains rooted in the classic Risk formula: roll dice, attack territories, and strategically deploy your forces. However, Risk: Game of Thrones edition elevates the experience with added layers of complexity. Each edition introduces unique character cards that grant special abilities, allowing players to leverage the strengths of iconic characters like Tyrion Lannister or Daenerys Targaryen. Furthermore, the inclusion of Maester cards in Westeros and Mercenary cards in Essos introduces random events and challenges that can drastically alter the course of the game. Imagine a sudden Wildfire attack that decimates your forces or a plague that sweeps through your territories. These unpredictable elements keep players on their toes and force them to adapt their strategies on the fly.
Choosing between Westeros and Essos boils down to personal preference. If you’re a die-hard fan of the Westeros storyline and enjoy traditional Risk gameplay with a fantasy twist, the Westeros Edition is likely your best bet. If you prefer a more asymmetrical and economically focused experience, or if you’re looking to expand your Risk: Game of Thrones edition games to include more players, the Essos Edition might be more appealing. Many players, wanting the full experience, eventually acquire both editions to combine them for a grand, all-encompassing battle for control of both continents.
| Feature | Westeros Edition | Essos Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Map | Westeros | Essos |
| Number of Players | 2-5 | 2-7 (with combined game) |
| Great Houses/Factions | Lannister, Stark, Baratheon, Martell, Tyrell | Daenerys Targaryen, Ghiscari Slave Masters (plus four more with combined map.) |
| Special Cards | Maester Cards, Character Cards | Mercenary Cards, Character Cards |
| Gameplay Focus | Territorial Conquest, Political Intrigue | Economic Control, Asymmetrical Warfare |
Beyond the Basics: Gameplay Mechanics and Strategic Considerations
Risk: Game of Thrones edition isn’t just about rolling dice and moving armies. It’s about strategic planning, resource management, and understanding the nuances of each Great House or faction. Each House boasts unique starting positions and advantages, influencing the optimal strategies for conquering Westeros. For example, the Lannisters, with their control of the richest territories, can leverage their wealth to recruit more troops and bribe enemies. The Starks, on the other hand, benefit from their defensive position in the North, making them a formidable force to dislodge.
The influence of character cards is equally crucial. Characters like Tyrion Lannister offer political advantages, allowing you to manipulate events to your favor. Daenerys Targaryen boasts powerful dragons that can decimate enemy forces. Mastering the use of these character cards is essential for gaining a strategic edge. The Maester/Mercenary cards add another layer of unpredictability. These cards can trigger unexpected events, such as famines, storms, or alliances, forcing players to adapt their strategies on the fly. Skillful players will use these cards to disrupt their opponents’ plans and seize opportunities.
Beyond the cards and characters, territorial control is still paramount. Securing key territories with valuable resources or strategic chokepoints is crucial for maintaining a strong economy and controlling movement across the map. Pay attention to supply lines and defensive positions. Don’t overextend your forces, and always be prepared for a potential betrayal. Alliances are often necessary to survive in the treacherous political landscape of Westeros, but remember that alliances are rarely permanent. Knowing when to forge an alliance, and more importantly, when to break it, is a key skill for any aspiring ruler. Careful planning and adapting your strategy to the current game state is what will lead to success. A common long-tail variation of Game of Thrones that this version taps into is the political intrigue aspect.
Components and Production Quality: Is it Worth the Price?
The visual appeal and component quality of Risk: Game of Thrones edition are significant factors to consider. The game boasts a beautifully illustrated game board depicting the detailed maps of Westeros and Essos. The miniatures representing the different army units are well-sculpted and add to the immersive experience. The cards are of high quality and feature artwork inspired by the television series and books. The overall production quality is commendable, reflecting the premium price point of the game. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the intricate designs on the character cards to the sturdy construction of the game box.
However, some players have noted minor issues with the miniature quality or the clarity of the rulebook. While the miniatures are generally well-made, some may experience slight imperfections in the casting. The rulebook, while comprehensive, can be dense and overwhelming for new players. It’s recommended to watch tutorial videos or consult online resources to fully grasp the game’s mechanics. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall component quality and production value of Risk: Game of Thrones edition are generally excellent, making it a worthwhile investment for fans of the series and strategy game enthusiasts. The tactile experience of moving the miniatures and drawing cards adds to the immersion and enjoyment of the game. Owning Risk: Game of Thrones edition feels like owning a piece of Westeros itself.
The value proposition extends beyond the physical components. You’re not just buying a game; you’re buying an experience. A chance to immerse yourself in the world of Westeros, to strategize like Tyrion, and to command armies like Robb Stark. It’s an opportunity to test your tactical skills against friends and family, to forge alliances and betrayals, and to experience the thrill of conquering the Iron Throne. Considering the depth of gameplay, the replayability, and the overall quality of the components, Risk: Game of Thrones edition offers a compelling value proposition for those who appreciate a well-crafted and engaging strategy game.
Where to Buy and What to Look For: A Buyer’s Guide
Purchasing Risk: Game of Thrones edition is relatively straightforward, but there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. The game is widely available at online retailers like Seller and eBay, as well as brick-and-mortar game stores. Prices can vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. It’s always a good idea to compare prices across multiple sources to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
When buying online, pay close attention to the product description and reviews. Make sure you’re purchasing a genuine copy of the game and not a counterfeit or a used version with missing components. Check the retailer’s return policy in case you encounter any issues with the game upon arrival. If possible, purchase from reputable retailers with a proven track record of customer satisfaction. When purchasing used copies, inspect the components carefully to ensure they are in good condition and that all necessary pieces are included. Ask the seller for detailed photos of the game and its contents to assess its condition. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the game’s history and any potential issues it may have.
Consider purchasing directly from the game’s publisher, USAopoly, for guaranteed authenticity. They often offer exclusive deals and bundles that may not be available elsewhere. Check for special editions or expansion packs that might enhance your gaming experience. Some retailers offer bundles that include both the Westeros and Essos editions, providing a comprehensive experience. Look out for discounts during holidays and sales events. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are typically good times to find deals on board games. By doing your research and comparing prices, you can secure a great deal on Risk: Game of Thrones edition and embark on your journey to conquer Westeros and Essos. It’s a great way to explore the strategic depth that the setting offers. A second long-tail variation you can see is the replayability. Every game offers a new challenge and experience.
| Retailer | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Seller | Wide selection, competitive prices, fast shipping | Potential for counterfeit products, reliance on seller reviews |
| eBay | Opportunity to find rare or discounted items, potential for negotiation | Risk of purchasing from unreliable sellers, potential for missing components |
| Local Game Stores | Support local businesses, opportunity to inspect the game before buying | Potentially higher prices, limited selection |
| USAopoly (Publisher) | Guaranteed authenticity, potential for exclusive deals | Potentially higher prices, limited selection |
Expansion Packs and Variants: Expanding Your Realm
Once you’ve mastered the base game of Risk: Game of Thrones edition, you might be looking for ways to expand your realm and introduce new challenges. While formal expansion packs are limited, the base game itself offers a degree of variability and customization. Combining the Westeros and Essos editions is the most common way to expand the game, allowing you to play with up to 7 players and experience a grand, continent-spanning conflict. This combined game requires some adjustments to the rules and setup, but it offers a significantly more complex and engaging experience. Fan-made expansions and variants can also be found online, offering new rules, scenarios, and even custom miniatures. However, these unofficial expansions may not be balanced or playtested as thoroughly as the official game.
One popular variant involves creating custom scenarios based on specific events from the books or television series. For example, you could create a scenario centered around the War of the Five Kings, with each player commanding a different claimant to the Iron Throne. You could also create a scenario based on the invasion of the White Walkers, with players cooperating to defend Westeros against the undead horde. These custom scenarios can add a new level of narrative depth and challenge to the game. Another long-tail variation to consider is the community and the opportunity to build on top of the official rules. Players regularly create their own rules and scenarios, adding new depth to the game.
House rules are another way to customize your gaming experience. You could introduce new rules for alliances, combat, or resource management. You could also modify the starting conditions or the victory conditions to create a more challenging or balanced game. Experiment with different house rules to find what works best for your playgroup and enhances your enjoyment of the game. Ultimately, the possibilities for expanding and customizing Risk: Game of Thrones edition are limited only by your imagination. Whether you choose to combine the base games, create custom scenarios, or introduce house rules, there are plenty of ways to keep the game fresh and engaging for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Westeros and Essos Editions?
The Westeros Edition focuses on the conflict for control of Westeros, the familiar setting of the main “Game of Thrones” storyline. It supports 2-5 players, each controlling a Great House (Lannister, Stark, Baratheon, Martell, or Tyrell). The gameplay emphasizes territorial conquest and political intrigue, with players vying for control of key territories and utilizing character cards and Maester cards to gain an advantage. The Essos Edition, on the other hand, focuses on the continent of Essos, offering a more asymmetrical gameplay experience. It supports 2 players as Daenerys Targaryen and the Ghiscari slave masters or up to 7 with a combined map. Gameplay emphasizes economic control and asymmetrical warfare, with a focus on cities like Meereen and Qarth. While both editions share the core Risk mechanics, they offer distinct gameplay experiences tailored to their respective continents. Choosing between the two depends on your preference for setting and play style.
Can you combine the Westeros and Essos Editions?
Yes, you can absolutely combine the Westeros and Essos Editions to create a grand, continent-spanning conflict! This is a popular way to expand the game and accommodate more players (up to 7). When combining the editions, you’ll need to make some adjustments to the rules and setup. Typically, you’ll connect the two maps and divide the territories among the players. You’ll also need to decide how to integrate the different card decks (Maester and Mercenary cards) and balance the starting conditions for each faction. Several fan-made rule sets and variants exist online to help you streamline the combined game. Playing with both maps greatly expands the strategic depth of the game and the time each play-through lasts. Some players prefer this as a long-tail version of the game that creates a more immersive and complex conflict mirroring the overarching scale of the story.
Is Risk: Game of Thrones edition suitable for beginners?
While Risk: Game of Thrones edition retains the core mechanics of classic Risk, it introduces additional layers of complexity that may be overwhelming for complete beginners. The inclusion of character cards, Maester/Mercenary cards, and unique faction abilities adds a significant strategic depth to the game. However, with some patience and a willingness to learn, beginners can certainly enjoy Risk: Game of Thrones edition. It’s recommended to start with the Westeros Edition, as it offers a more traditional Risk experience with a fantasy twist. Watch tutorial videos or consult online resources to understand the game’s mechanics. Start with a smaller number of players to keep the game manageable. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them. With practice and perseverance, even beginners can become skilled strategists in the world of Westeros.
How long does a game of Risk: Game of Thrones edition typically last?
The length of a game of Risk: Game of Thrones edition can vary significantly depending on the number of players, the strategies employed, and the degree of aggression. A game with 2-3 players might last for 2-3 hours, while a game with 5-7 players, especially with both maps combined, can easily stretch to 4-6 hours or even longer. Factors that can influence game length include the willingness of players to form alliances, the number of territories controlled by each player, and the occurrence of random events triggered by Maester/Mercenary cards. To shorten the game, you can agree on a specific victory condition, such as controlling a certain number of territories or eliminating a specific opponent. You can also set a time limit and declare the player with the most territories as the winner after the time expires. Ultimately, the length of the game is part of the experience. Allowing for a longer play time lets players take advantage of the rich setting and strategic depth.
Are there any official expansion packs for Risk: Game of Thrones edition?
Are there any plans for future expansions?
As of now, there are no formal official expansion packs for Risk: Game of Thrones edition beyond the two base games (Westeros and Essos). While USAopoly has not released any additional expansions, they have not explicitly ruled out the possibility of future content. Given the continued popularity of the “Game of Thrones” franchise and the success of Risk: Game of Thrones edition, it’s possible that we may see new expansions or variants in the future. Fans have often expressed interest in expansions that would introduce new factions, territories, or gameplay mechanics. In the meantime, players can explore fan-made expansions and variants or create their own custom content to enhance their gaming experience. Keeping an eye on USAopoly’s official website and social media channels for any announcements regarding future content is a good idea.
What are some good strategies for Risk: Game of Thrones edition?
Success in Risk: Game of Thrones edition requires a combination of strategic planning, tactical maneuvering, and a healthy dose of luck. Some general strategies include securing key territories with valuable resources or strategic chokepoints. Building a strong defensive perimeter to protect your territories. Forming alliances with other players, but always being prepared for betrayal. Mastering the use of character cards and Maester/Mercenary cards to gain an advantage. Adapting your strategy to the current game state and the actions of your opponents. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each Great House or faction. Concentrating your forces to launch decisive attacks. Maintaining a balanced economy to support your military efforts. Always being aware of potential threats and opportunities on the board. And most importantly, having fun and embracing the chaos of the game. Remember that Risk: Game of Thrones edition is a game of chance as well as skill. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks, and always be ready to adapt your plans.
Where can I find the rules for Risk: Game of Thrones edition?
The rules for Risk: Game of Thrones edition are included in the game box. The rulebook provides a comprehensive overview of the game’s mechanics, setup, and gameplay. If you’ve lost your rulebook, you can typically find a digital version online by searching for “Risk Game of Thrones rulebook PDF.” Several websites and online communities offer scanned versions of the rulebook for download. You can also find tutorial videos on YouTube that explain the rules of the game in a visual format. These videos can be particularly helpful for beginners who are struggling to understand the written rules. Many online forums and communities dedicated to Risk and Game of Thrones can help answer rule questions and provide clarification on ambiguous rules. Don’t hesitate to consult these resources if you’re unsure about a specific rule or situation. The rules for this version of Risk are considered a long-tail of Game of Thrones edition because they require an understanding of both the Risk rules and the Game of Thrones setting.
Price: $24.99
(as of Sep 11, 2025 03:03:08 UTC – Details)
