Board Games

Euthia-nother Day, Euthia-nother Adventure

Posted by David McKenzie on

Board Game Review: Euthia: Torment of Resurrection and Its Expansions

Overall Rating: 8.8/10

  • Gameplay: 9.0/10
  • Components and Art Design: 9.5/10
  • Replayability: 8.7/10
  • Accessibility: 8.0/10

Introduction

Euthia: Torment of Resurrection, designed by Diea Games and later published by Steamforged Games, is a sprawling open-world fantasy board game for 1–4 players. Blending elements of RPGs, tactical combat, and sandbox exploration, it offers a modular scenario-based experience that evokes the spirit of classic video games like Diablo and Baldur’s Gate. The game has been expanded with Fierce Powers and the recently crowdfunded Cruel Frost, each adding new layers of depth and content.​

Gameplay (9.0/10)

Euthia delivers a rich, tactical experience where players explore a hex-based map, engage in combat, mine resources, and complete quests. Each hero has a unique progression path, unlocking abilities and equipment as they gain reputation. Combat is dice-driven but mitigated by mechanics like Gaar tokens, which allow for rerolls and damage adjustments. The game supports solo, cooperative, and competitive modes, with each offering distinct dynamics.​

Strengths:

  • Hero Diversity: Six unique heroes with distinct abilities and progression paths. ​
  • Strategic Depth: Multiple paths to victory, including combat, mining, and quest completion. ​

Weaknesses:

  • Combat Complexity: Combat can feel swingy and complex, especially in competitive modes where opponents control monsters. ​

Components and Art Design (9.5/10)

The production quality of Euthia is exceptional. The game includes pre-painted miniatures, over 900 cards, and multi-layered world maps. The artwork vividly brings the fantasy world to life, enhancing immersion.​

Strengths:

  • High-Quality Miniatures: The inclusion of pre-painted miniatures adds a premium feel and visual appeal. ​
  • Detailed Artwork: The illustrations and map designs are meticulously crafted, contributing to an immersive experience. ​

Weaknesses:

  • Component Overload: The sheer number of components can be overwhelming and may require significant storage space.

Replayability (8.7/10)

With 11 scenarios in the base game and additional content from expansions, Euthia offers substantial replay value. The modular map and varied hero abilities ensure that each playthrough feels fresh.​Board Game Quest

Strengths:

  • Scenario Variety: Different objectives and setups keep the game engaging.
  • Hero Customization: Multiple upgrade paths for each hero encourage experimentation. ​

Weaknesses:

  • Early Game Similarity: The early stages of scenarios can feel repetitive across plays. ​

Accessibility (8.0/10)

While Euthia offers a rich experience, its complexity and extensive components can be daunting for new players. However, the game includes comprehensive tutorials and a well-structured rulebook to aid understanding.​

Strengths:

  • Tutorial Scenarios: Introductory missions help players grasp mechanics gradually. ​
  • Clear Rulebook: The rules are well-organized, facilitating easier reference during gameplay. ​

Weaknesses:

  • Component Management: The extensive components require careful organization, which might be daunting for some players. ​

Expansions Overview

Fierce Powers

This expansion introduces new heroes, enemies, and scenarios, enhancing the game’s diversity and replayability. It adds more strategic options and challenges, appealing to seasoned players seeking additional depth.​

Cruel Frost

As the final chapter in the Euthia trilogy, Cruel Frost brings a new icy realm, additional heroes, and formidable foes. It expands the narrative and offers fresh mechanics, such as environmental effects that influence gameplay. ​

Conclusion

Euthia: Torment of Resurrection stands as a monumental achievement in tabletop gaming, delivering an expansive and immersive experience. Its blend of strategic depth, rich lore, and high production values make it a standout title for fans of fantasy and adventure. While its complexity and component management may pose challenges, the game’s depth and quality of gameplay make it a worthwhile endeavor for enthusiasts of the genre.​

References:

  1. Biewer, Brian. “Euthia: Torment of Resurrection Review.” Board Game Quest, May 9, 2024. https://www.boardgamequest.com/euthia-torment-of-resurrection-review/​Board Game Quest+3Board Game Quest+3Board Game Quest+3
  2. “Euthia Review.” Shelfside, September 19, 2022. https://www.shelfside.co/reviews2021/euthia-review​
  3. “Euthia: Torment of Resurrection – Final Thoughts.” The Friendly Boardgamer, January 1, 2022. https://thefriendlyboardgamer.wordpress.com/2022/01/01/euthia-tournament-of-resurrection-final-thoughts/​
  4. Carlson, Matt. “First Impressions of Euthia: Torment of Resurrection.” The Opinionated Gamers, May 11, 2024. https://opinionatedgamers.com/2024/05/11/matt-carlson-first-impressions-of-euthia-torment-of-resurrection/​
  5. “Euthia: Torment of Resurrection – d4 D.I.C.E. Review.” The Friendly Boardgamer, January 1, 2022. https://thefriendlyboardgamer.wordpress.com/2022/01/01/euthia-tournament-of-resurrection-d4-d-i-c-e-review/​The Friendly Boardgamer+2The Friendly Boardgamer+2The Friendly Boardgamer+2

Leave a comment