Review of Horrified: Universal monsters
Game Title: Horrified: Universal Monsters Strategy Board Game
Designer: Prospero Hall
Artists: Prospero Hall
Publisher: Ravensburger
Player Count: 1-5
Recommended Age: 10+
Playing Time: 60 minutes
Review:
Overview:
Horrified: Universal Monsters Strategy Board Game immerses players in a thrilling battle against classic Universal Monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein, The Wolfman, and more. Each game pits players against a mix of these iconic creatures, requiring them to complete unique objectives to defeat each monster.
Gameplay:
Players select heroes, each with special abilities, and take turns performing actions such as moving, picking up items, and battling monsters. The game board, evocative of a spooky town, is seeded with various items essential for completing the tasks needed to vanquish the monsters. Depending on the chosen difficulty, players face between 2 to 4 monsters simultaneously.
Each monster presents a unique challenge: for example, defeating Dracula involves destroying his coffins spread across the board, while the Creature from the Black Lagoon requires players to advance a boat along a river. The game emphasizes cooperation as players strategize to complete their tasks and fend off monster attacks, managed by drawing monster cards that dictate movements and attacks.
Components:
Horrified stands out with its high-quality components, including detailed miniatures and a richly illustrated game board. The visual appeal and thematic consistency enhance the immersion and overall experience.
Experience:
The game is praised for its accessibility, with straightforward rules that make it easy to learn and play. The varying difficulty levels and unique monster mechanics contribute to its replayability. However, the game can sometimes feel repetitive due to the consistent “pick up and deliver” mechanics, and occasional luck-based elements can affect the outcome, introducing unpredictability that may not appeal to everyone.
Final Thoughts:
Horrified: Universal Monsters is a well-crafted, engaging game that beautifully captures the essence of classic horror films. Its cooperative nature, combined with the varied and thematic challenges posed by each monster, makes it a fun and exciting choice for both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike. Whether you’re a fan of the Universal Monsters or enjoy cooperative strategy games, Horrified is a highly recommended addition to your collection
