5 Reasons you SHOULDN'T Back : The Witcher Old World
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- Опубліковано 28 чер 2024
- The Witcher has cracked the top 10 Kickstarter funded Board Games of all time, and that alone should make it worth checking out. But is it right for you? Here are some reasons why it might be right and why you might want to take a pass.
If you're backing, don't forget to comment below as to why!
Check out the campaign here : www.kickstarter.com/projects/...
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
01:27 Why I want to back
04:13 Definitely the Number 1 reason everyone should back. So much joy.
04:22 Let’s get into the list
04:43 Number 5
06:18 Number 4
07:33 Number 3
08:33 Number 2
09:57 Number 1
11:16 Where I'm at in deciding and why a 1 dollar pledge is not an option
12:17 Where do you all stand?
Game: The Witcher : Old World
Publisher: Go On Board
Designer: Łukasz Woźniak
Player Count: 1-5
Time: 90-150 Min
Genre : Adventure, Deck Building, Narrative Choice.
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I upgraded my Deluxe Pledge to the All In Pledge. Huge fan of the IP. The production quality looks great, the game mechanics look fun, the stretch goals were cool and the miniatures look dope AF.
Reason 6: My wife would kill me, if I spent money for another game on kickstarter... But maybe being alive is overestimated.
Haha, perhaps the best reason of them all!
Feel you bro ☺️
Me to my wife: "I'm buying a new Game on KS"
Wife: "Hell you won't! Don't spend money on that BS"
Me: "Whatever I pledge, you can go shopping for the same amount"
Wife: "... Make sure to get the highest pledge!" 😂😂😂
@@theheavymetaldm LOL! It gave me a giggle hehehehe
Once again, thank you for doing a cautious review of a kickstarter project, find it very useful for fighting the kickstarter addiction. I agree with all the points you mention; specifically, the fact that the project is making millions of dollars without a published rulebook, just on the back of its IP is highly suspect. Here are my top-3 reasons for not backing Witcher:
#1 and most important: I see Witcher as a competitive exploration sandbox (I think it is more legitimate to call this game a sandbox rather than 7 continent, because here the exploration is limited to one board, unlike the countless amount of terrain card in 7 continent). Within this very specific boardgame genre of competitive exploration sandbox, I have Western Legends sitting on my shelf (including the Ante up expansion), still unplayed. Additionally, if you check the BGG hotness as of today, #1 is Arydia, designed by Cody Miller (designer of Xia), which will be coming out in Kickstarter in August. Just the name pedigree of Cody Miller and the fact that he explains that he’s been working on the design of Arydia for years should be enough to persuade you that if you’re purchasing (backing) a sandbox in 2021, it should be Arydia.
#2 Kickstarter Miniature bloat: I’m beginning to hate it, to be honest. Nowadays, I think twice about backing a kickstarter project with Minis more than a project without them. It’s just becoming an excuse to charge higher for the kickstarter bling.
#3 Gameplay looks not too inspired. When I played RPGs, the dungeon master would give us the option to go to the bar of the town we were exploring and interact with the locals. Those interactions included attempting to make friends, obtaining information or, maybe once a year, playing a gambling game in the bar. In the Witcher game, every time they go to a town the first thing they decide is if they’re going to play poker in the town? It’s losing the story element to turn it into a gameplay mechanism.
Keep it up with the challenge to kickstarter projects! Highly appreciated.
Thanks for the mention of Arydia. Didn't know about that one, and being a huge fan of Xia, this might just make me pledge the 1 euro on the Witcher and see what news we get on Arydia.
This is a great list, thanks for sharing! I'll definitely be keeping my eye out on Arydia, I was looking into it the other day but having never played Xia the only reason it was on my radar was because of the hotness. I think you're right on with the description "competitive exploration sandbox" - really sums it up!
Great post! I am looking forward to Arydia on KS, thanks for sharing. I am in the same boat with the mini aspect. I watched some game play and it does not appear to draw me in. The minis look awesome, but for me it’s all about game play.
Thanks for the hint, I saved Arydia on Kickstarter!
I agree Arydia is the one I'll be watching. Also, how lame is the dice poker? It has none of the actual bluffing fun of poker. You could literally flip a coin to decide the outcome and it would be about as fun. They should have cut this out completely. And needing another player to decide what the monster does? Another useless mechanic that could have been replaced by a coin toss.
Very reasonable and solid breakthrough for backing the game - I loved it. Keep it up - I think we (people) need someone who can shake us off the hype and ask those questions from time to time.
For me - I am backing on Deluxe pledge because i do love narrative games (I am a huge Tabletop RPG player - 99% of the time as a Game Master) and my team likes them too. Just because the most frequent games we do play are narrative ones (This war of Mine, Tainted Grail, Gloomhaven) I think another one with the accompany of beloved IP will be a good addition to the table. And just because it's way lighter it may be easier to pick up when we feel tired and still enjoy the narrative aspects.
I do strongly believe that the Witcher really deserves a good BoardGame (everyone knows how did the "Adventure Game" end).
Honestly, I'm backing this because I want to paint those GORGEOUS Miniatures!! 😂
But also, even without a Rulebook to read yet, the Gameplay Video sold it to me. All the additional stuff that was unlocked should keep the replay value up for some time!
I'm getting the deluxe pledge for now, later in the pledge manager I may add the legendary hunt (also mainly because of the Minis), the metal coins and the neoprene playmat to "upgrade" my game. Every other expansion I can get later in retail if I really want it.
I know that's expensive, but I'm also a HUGE Witcher fan so... This KS was almost a no-brainer for me.
And: even if the Game "sucks" afterwards, I still can use the Minis for DnD 😅
I’m on the fence. Right now I’m backing the deluxe version.. the three extra expansions( mages, legendary monsters, boats) don’t seem to add a lot. Thinking about canceling because it’s so expensive. I can buy games that are already out that I know will be good. The Hype is huge so it’s hard not to back.
That hype plays a huge factor, that's for sure. For me, the minis were the first things that drew me in, and honestly are probably still the main draw even though I know I can realistically only afford the base pledge, haha. So I've been really trying to get a sense of the gameplay over the last week through the various playthroughs etc to make sure if I do pull the trigger, I'll want to play it more than twice.
But yeah, even though the add-ons look neat on a surface level, I don't get a sense of how they'll deepen the core game experience in a significant enough way to justify their pretty significant extra price tag.
same
There’s a ton of red flags, the random story quests at the end of every turn, the wait time between turns, the constant losing cards in a deck building game in combat and random events, combat takes a long time (someone can literally make a sandwich), the random negative effects of choices in random event cards, the dice poker being so half baked, the price compared to what you get, and the fact you could prob wait till retail and other reviews come out. Literally the only thing that’s pulling me in is the IP.
Yuppp, all of this. The random story doesn't bother me as much as the others, but you just have to know that's what you're in for. But that downtime factor is so huge for me, especially since I'd want to play this with more people but I don't think it's engaging enough to ever do it.
Losing cards in a deck building game is actually productive towards building a deck. As you trash cards from your deck or hand that you aren’t interested in seeing again, you are increasing the likelihood of cards you do want to see will come up more frequently.
I just pledge the All-In version.I want them all.
Nice! Hope you love it!
I'm backing it at the Deluxe pledge and will be adding the Legendary Hunt during the pledge manager. I'm in it for the IP, the minis to paint, and honestly the gameplay. I know it's missing the rulebook but there have been many reviewer that were excited about the game. GoB did a great job at addressing the reviewers' concerns. I'm not too worried about it. I'm also excited about the simplicity of the base game to hopefully bring others into the game and hopefully ramp up the next sessions with expansions that add more complexity. Thanks for the video as it does hit on some crucial points. For me, I'm loving what I'm seeing and will get the remaining expansions once they hit retail.
I did the $1 pledge day one just to make sure I get the extra mini if I upgrade my pledge at a later date. I'm not sold on a few things:
1) Lack of agency for the person controlling monsters in the fights
2) The dice poker mini game just seems tacked on
3) How much are the additional combat cards really impacting the gameplay?
I could buy this, or I could just buy a game and expansion I want that's currently on sale from a publisher I really like for less money.
Great video! Oddly enough you convinced me to back the game rather than not as many of the questions you asked helped solidified why this is a game I'm looking for. I do enjoy the IP, I want a game that is story driven but quick to get into and out, simple enough to draw in new players but with mechanics that can be expanded on with expansions. I did get a good feel of the rules based on the videos and updates, although I suspect the expansions aren't fleshed out so they don't want to back themselves into a corner by releasing them this early. I agree this isn't for everyone and will likely be cheaper at retail, but I'd rather not have to hunt down a copy or all the expansion separately later on and end up paying more overall. I figure it will even out in the end, and if not it will be somewhat close.
That's awesome to hear, I was hoping for this exact situation :) I'm glad you're feeling good about your decision and I hope you end up loving it!
Yeah I feel it'll even out in the end too, price wise, I expect this is the cheapest you'll be able to get it at, unless it truly bombs at the retail level, but I don't think it will. So since you know your interested sounds like a great plan
Question, I'm looking through the late pledges, did you decide to back this or no. I may just go with the standard pledge and play mat. Seems like alot of extra money for the deluxe (mini) extras..
I ended up passing on this one. After the fervour died down, for me I realized nah, I don't think it's worth it for the expense. I think if I did I would have gone with the standard pledge, just price wise. Plus I feel like you can use some of the extra stretch goals minis as substitutes for the monsters roaming around if you want that physical table presence.
I couldn't agree more. I REALLY want to want this game.... but for some reason I just don't.
I love narrative in games and i love quests that come in the form of cards with branching stories, kind of reminds me of how fallout does it's quests. The Adventure pack contains a huge amount of extra quests. The expansions seem a little overpriced, but i am pretty sure i will back the deluxe pledge and i always add sundrop if i can.
Which games in your collection do you think scratch the same itch?
Great video. I am also in Canada. I love deck building games and I am a Witcher fan so this was a no brainer for me, but I just backed at the standard pledge just because the value alone in just getting the base game and the 3 expansion plus the lost mount is great. I am not sure if they have released the shipping cost for the standard yet. All I read on the page was for the deluxe so I am waiting to see that cost later before I add any add ones because yes the game can get pretty expensive with everything. I'm mostly interested in that legendary hunt expansion with the bosses, but we shall see. 👍
Nice! Yeah the bosses would definitely be the add-on I'd go for too, they look pretty cool too - good point about the shipping costs, hopefully the smaller box size will give a little reduction in the cost, guess it will all depend on how different the dimensions are once all the monsters are added.
There are a couple of group buy groups listed under the Geeklists for this. You save a lot of money in shipping that way. I would go this route but I am about an hour and a half away from Toronto so the time will nullify my savings.
@@christopherspiesz3537 Great point, finding out about group buys was a game changer for me, it's so beneficial.
Well, I was a 1st day backer just to see how it goes. I'm still at the Deluxe pledge just because I suppose it could be sold back easily in case I don't like it (never done it, but hey, there's always a start). I loved the TV series, never played the game. I'm not a fan of the game mechanics because it may look repetitive. But some say the expansions fix that. So right now I'm a bit on the fence. Should I drop it or should I go all-in ? (but then, it's harder to resell)
i was on the fence but ultimately did not back for two reasons:
1, no campaign mode tying multiple playthroughs together. given the IP and the price point, i was very disappointed there would not be a campaign, legacy aspects, or different missions i could string together with head-canon. while i understand the replayability lies in the different cards/monsters you can get within a playthrough, that's not enough draw for me personally to continuously bring it back to the table. just personal preference.
2, there's roughly a zero percent chance this doesn't eventually hit retail. there are only a couple kickstarter-exclusive items (and i think they may just be cosmetic?), which i actually think is great -- it means people can decide to back or not without relying on FOMO. the flipside is that there's not much compelling me to plunk down my moneys for the kickstarter, as opposed to waiting for retail (after folks have played and reviewed it more and i can make a more informed decision).
the game looks very cool, and i definitely want to play it at some point. hopefully a non-minis version will hit retail in the US$50~60 price range in a couple years, and i will happily scoop it up then. :)
Great vid man, really like your style :)
I have a profound bias to The Witcher universe having read and loved Sapkowski's novels and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt becoming my favourite game of all time, so naturally this game got me curious.
Pre-campaign, I was actually really sceptical as I thought the game looked far too light for my taste (Twilight Imperium 4th is my fav board game lmao) and Lukasz's gameplay videos did little to inspire me. However, then the Kickstarter hype ENGAGED and low and behold, the avalanche of stretch goals and the much needed Monster Trail and Adventurers' Pack swayed me into tossing up between Deluxe and All-In.
Once the Add-On expansions were revealed though, I realised how cash-grabby the campaign was starting to feel and the reveal of the Skellige expansion in particular was overwhelmingly disappointing - not to mention the really poor All-In price point. The final nail in the coffin however was the All-In Monster Trio exclusive as I'm staunchly against KSE that locks extra gameplay behind a paywall instead of merely being a cosmetic enhancement.
As a result, I've decided I'm backing Deluxe since like you, I adore the look of the minis - additionally, I'm way too big a Witcher and board game fan not to back this product at the end of the day. I'll probs look to pick up the add-on expansions at retail or second-hand.
Nice! I really have to read the books because I do love fantasy and it seems more people are drawn to this one through the books than the video game or tv show (at least from what I've read). Deluxe for sure seems like the way to go over the all in. I like the legendary monsters they look fun, mages I'm indifferent about but yeah those boats do nothing for me.
Great video, thanks!
I want to love and back the game, but I cant... There are too many doubts about the gameplay, and without the rulebook is it too much money (I could buy 2-3 great board games for tha price of the basic pledge) for the risk:
- I think, that the story element could be too repetitive and boring.
- I think, that the action cards have too less variety, and the deck-building / combo mechanics could be just a chase after stronger cards, and not the combinations.
- I think, that the monsters could be too uniform, even with the large cards.
- Im very much afraid, that the core element of the books and the pc-game, the preparations for the monster battles, will be missing.
Some of these doubts could be clarified with a rulebook, but... So, if no rulebook then no backing from my side. And if there will be a rulebook, I will maybe reconsider.
100% That's always on my mind, how many other smaller games could I get with that money. I agree with everything you've mentioned, there are just too many unknowns. I'll for sure read the rulebook when it comes out and see if that changes things, but for now I'm happy with my choice.
I upgraded my all in pledge to the big box, having seen their recent update about it. Very cool, clever design.
Oh nice, I'll have to check that out. I looooove me some storage options haha
I like your video and the way you speak to the viewers. Your facial expression always smiling when talking is psychologycally makes people can't hate you even tho they are disagree with you or have different opinion. 🤣 Such as myself. I'm backing the game because of the IP and the hype. Because there is no other good Witcher Board Game out there except for the FFG version which is just ok or so so. This witcher game is the best I can get in the market with all the lore and story behind it 'cause witcher lore is all about story and narrative. Also the minis are great. I can get a rewarding feeling when I get this game. Finally there is this sort of representation of the book, video game and digital card game that's real that I can touch and feel in a shape of a Board Game. That's an awesome thing. I really appreciate the publisher & CDPR for this and of course I'm gonna support them for this.
Haha, what can I say, talking about board games makes me smile! And that's great you're getting it! Honestly, the lore looks so good, but I've never read any of the books or played the games, so I've managed to stave off that particular draw. This campaign has made me want to pick up the video game, and I expect I'll fall in love and throw all may points out the window, haha. I know there are some other IPs that it doesn't matter what it is, I'm going to get it, so I totally get the feeling. Hope you love it!
I was pretty sure backing the deluxe pledge, but the all-in is kicking me out. I don’t know what to do, thanks for your help.
My friend actually got to test the game out and he says its an awesome experience. I too was worried about the downtime but he said that once everyone started to understand the gameplay and thankfully its not too complicated the downtime was not bad. It is still there but its not bad. He actually liked the aspect that it was simple.
Nice, that's really great to hear!
I am so torn, Zombicide is a big hit in my fam, and wife and I love wingspan, will this fit in with what we like?
Couldn't agree more on all the points. I ended up withdrawing my pledge (base game only), because there simply wasn't enough detailed gameplay info, especially about the solo/co-op modes.
Chris, did you go in on this one? I'm juggling the late pledge. Your points are very valid. I love the Witcher canon, but I am asking myself if that is the only reason I'm thinking about backing. Is there enough here to make it unique? I'm not seeing it other than 'it's the Witcher' which we all love.
I think my main draw on this one was the minis, and I felt that one was a bit too pricey for me. I don't mind the narrative choose your own adventure nature of all the cards, but I like Dead of Winter for that aspect with their crossroad cards. An odd parallel I know, but I really considered it because of all the stretch goals, but ultimately the gameplay didn't grab me enough.
I love this niche video style. Exactly what I’m looking for when I’m making a kickstarter decision!
I might back deluxe + legendary monster. All three expansions add very little for a relatively high price (and not so much cheaper than retail), but I really like boss enemies, the other 2 I might get on retail if I like the game
But you make a good point, when I backed Wonderlands War the gameplay looked so amazing and unique, with the theme/IP/minis being a good extra. In the witcher, gameplay seems okay, and the IP/Minis are what really are driving me to pay more for a game that might not be that good
maybe the super over the top reviews of what appears a pretty average might be persuading you too...
Still debating on the kickstarter. I know I'll get it at retail eventually, probably sooner than later, so it comes down to if the extra charge for shipping and being a bit higher than MSRP, is worth the kickstarter.
Speaking of benefitting from the IP, you just got another subscriber! Browsed your other videos and looks like you produce good stuff :)
Haha, thanks a bunch, much appreciated!
If you know you'll get it at retail, I'd definitely say get it now. The shipping is annoying, but you're basically paying the cost of the Monster Trail or one of the other add-ons in the process that a lot of the reviewers who got demo copies seem to think is very much needed for the longevity of the game.
Plus the tax is factored in for Kickstarters as well, unless you live somewhere that charges additional VAT, but at least for us here in Canada you can factor the tax out of your calculations.
You hit the nail on the head. I'm a fan of the IP and the game looks fun, BUT it just is so expensive that I'm not sure I'll get the return on investment I'm hoping for. I was a day 1 backer but canceled my pledge and have only a little remorse, but overall I think I made the right decision.
I went from deluxe to $1 because there is literally nothing available for people who would want it for the coop/solo play. GOB have listened to part of their audience, but another part has been let down.
I appreciate they might not have this - but then be honest & open about it... right now - they haven't.
The base game is an adventure game. You're playing multiple solo games at the same time. I fear many backers will discover that there's too much solo in their competitive game, not the other way around. It's reason #4 in the video
@@KiroJay - well... that's not really how the king of average or Quack/Boardgameco describe it (who have actually played it). Or the game company itself. There's a reason why they introduced the coop/solo mode.....(it's called win/loss conditions)
@@EricWoning I never watch the King of Average. I tried to scan his long review of the Witcher, but I can't find any description of the type of game. My impressions are based on the videos from the designer himself. Have you played Runebound? It looks very similar to that
@@KiroJay - I watched a couple of them. Boardgameco literally says that he's going to house-rule that for the end you need to combat someone as you have become so powerful it's relatively easy to slay a monster. KOA comments on how you do all kinds of different things - but keeps on bringing up the player interaction as that is (for him) one of the most important things.
I have not played runebound, but know that to play solo or coop you need the unbreakable bonds expansion (which is exactly my point - I wouldn't buy Runebound if I didn't know how Unbreakable Bonds worked).
@@EricWoning Your descriptions of those 2 videos basically prove my point? KOA probably focuses on player interaction because without some special rules, games like this don't have any interaction. All it takes is 1 house rule called 'ok, let's all work together!' to make it a Coop
O well, maybe one (or both) of us is making too many assumptions about the game, as we don't have any official rules yet...
I am sooo on the fence. Should i go all in, deluxe version or just 1€? I just have some doubts and why is there no rulebook or more game play videos .... sad because i really love the witcher :/ for this amount of money (all in) i could buy 3-4 really good games ...
You are such a positive person, and its funny to watch you talk about why not to do something that you want. Your smile convinces me that you are having fun doing these videos- Thanks for this review- I am still on the fence, I love the Witcher world and I think adding this game to my library would be great, but it is a lot of money to drop on something that has a lot of grey areas left to be discovered.
Aw thanks Dawn
Excellent video. You gave all the reasons why I'm NOT backing this project, even though I love the IP. It's so hard going against the urge of getting it. though.
Damn - you make a good video. I'm really looking for more videos from you. I'm on the fence and I think I won't be backing it - because although this looks like a great game, there is always other great games on kickstarter that I'm looking out for.
Thanks, that means a lot! That's definitely my thinking as well, when I asked myself if this was the only kickstarter I back this year, or even one of the only 3, I realized that I wouldn't be completely satisfied, so I'm leaning towards no.
Bom dia! No nosso caso aqui no Brasil é ainda pior. Nosso salário mínimo aqui no Brasil está em torno de R$ 1.040,00 e o jogo no site da Catarse, que seria o equivalente ao site do Kickstarter, está por volta de R$ 1.400,00 na versão deluxe, na outra versão está em R$ 799,00.
O que quero dizer é que, se para você, que mora no Canadá achar que o jogo está caro (não sei a base do salário mínimo de vocês), imagina para nós brasileiros aqui, que o jogo deluxe saí por um salário mínimo e meio quase (se você parcelar este valor, saí mais R$ 1.600,00) ou seja, mais de um salário mínimo e meio...
Aqui no Brasil, a campanha do The Witcher foi um sucesso também, mas vendo todos os seus 5 pontos contras, não apoiarei este jogo.
Muito obrigado pelo vídeo!
De fato 800 reais são mais de 11x a conversão do preço do jogo. Totalmente bizarro este preço, parece que estamos pagando pela ip e não pelo que vem na caixa, que basicamente são 300 cartas de papel, um tabuleiro e 5 miniaturas.
I'm right up there with you! I love the world and the minis. Story seems finde. Don't know much about the gameplay though. I really want to love it but it just doesn't seem amazing enough for the money. Then it also come in german which is a big plus for a story game!!!
Oh yeah, it really is great that such a narrative heavy game has the 7 language editions. I know not a lot are able to do that many.
@@RoomandBoardReviews Yes! Sad but true! Mostly it's just not reasonable, but they knew what kind of mighty IP they had there ;)
For now I'm backing only the delux verion, probably tomorrow I will go All-In. An why, fisrtly I'm from the same country as GoB, and as we don't have much good crowdfunded games I'm backing this one. Second when playing with 2-3 players it can be quick, a game for the evening which not requires saving and continuing later on, one evening shot. Third for 4-5 players, make a drink for yourself an your friends, get some snacks, and just have a good time in that long fun evening. Fourth, the variarity in the game is just enought for a fun game and not something overblown which I will never play because there are to many big add-ons, Fifth.... the miniatures.... I will paint them all, I con't care about sleep, I will paint them :D
But moreover, thank you for your opinion! There are to many channels talking only about why you should back a game, and not going in why not to back. Things like this give you space to think about backing, to get a game which you will play, and not just to get another game because it is a kickstarter ;)
Nice video. I did not expect that !! It will be my first board game and went all inclusive because of the IP.
Nice, I hope you love it! If you're a fan of the IP, I'm sure it'll be a smash hit :)
Thank you. I own you. You help me feed my family... or pledge something else.
Haha, they can fend for themselves, there are games to buy!
I quite like this series and appreciate the alternative take, even though I did end up going heavy into X-Men United once the PM rolled around. Not going in on this one though, because the IP isn't really my cup of tea. (I know, I'm in the minority here) Got another friend in the game group who loves the Witcher that is backing though.
Love what you're doing. Rock on!
Thanks so much, I'm glad it's helpful! That's kind of the best of both worlds, trading off on the popular kickstarters so that you'll be able to try them all down the line! Xmen is definitely one of those that I haven't thought too much about since the Kickstarter, which tells me I think I made the right choice - hope you love it!
@@RoomandBoardReviews I backed a dollar and bought the core game to give it a spin. With 3 kids who all loved it, I ended up spending more than I had even originally planned once the PM opened. CMON games are expensive but when you find one you like the experience is second to none.
I am Canadian too and the exchange rate is painful! That said, I have backed standard with Mage add-on because I am a fan of The Witcher Netflix series and the books and I wanted more female characters.
Thanks for sharing. Excellent points.
I backed it on day one, because -
- the developer seems to be locked in and develops games with solid mechanics, etc
- as you mentioned, the miniatures are impressive
- I enjoy The Witcher IP and will enjoy the story
- I like deck builders
- backing just the base game will get me a lot of KS exclusives
Great reasons, sounds like it's a great purchase! I do love that you are getting so much extra stuff for free which always feels awesome - although work noting that most aren't technically "KS exclusives" since they'll be probably available later - but those things are always tricky to find when they're not produced in large quantities that they sometimes might as well be under the "exclusives" tag anyway.
@@RoomandBoardReviews Yeah, there are so many things in a KS like The Witcher it is difficult to tell what's what. :-) (it's confusing for me, that is)
@@tonybowers9490 Totally, especially since it's moving at such a rapid pace things are changing so much each day!
The only KSE's are the silly horse on a roof thing and, now, the ciri playable character unless you get the all in, in which case you get 3 extra monsters too. It sounds like eerything else is going to retail.
Sorry, there's also a mounted wild hunt KSE miniature if you backed in the first few days, otherwise it's an extra €8.
Thx for the cool Video and greetings from germany. I took a lot of time to think about the game, too... and i came to the conclusion that i want it all🙂
Haha, nice! I hope you love it :)
Dude... I hear you... I have an unhealthy addiction to kickstarter games... my wife is not happy, so I have to spread them out a bit to fly under the radar. :)
Haha definitely, it's so easy to get sucked in!
I'm also on the fence with this game. When the KS started, I felt like if they add a few stretch goals, the deluxe pledge would be a pretty good bargain. I almost backed it in the first 24h, but didn't because of technical reasons.The only board game where I payed something around that price is Scythe (retail version) with it's expansions (which I love by the way). Then they introduced the first expansion, Mages, which even though seemed like a good addition to me, felt expensive. Then they introduced 2 more. And I'm like I love the Witcher, love board games, this seems like a game I would enjoy, but oh boy this is getting way too expensive.
Aaaand they added Ciri as a KS exclusive playable character.
Scythe is so good, I only have the invaders from afar expansion but heard Rise of Fenris is incredible. It's those variable player powers that really get me going though, which makes that Ciri reveal seem pretty good. I think the value for the deluxe pledge is not bad, you're going to get 26 miniatures for the price - I don't have a huge read on how expensive miniatures are across the board, but I know for Etherfields and any Awaken Realms miniature add-on packs, they usually charge around the same - you got 20 which was then expanded to 22 for Etherfields for 42 Euro extra, so at least they're on par with that price range. I definitely wouldn't go all in though, for what you're paying, almost double the deluxe pledge, I don't see you getting double the content.
@@RoomandBoardReviews Now, Rise of Fenris is the one that I didn't play yet but I really want to. The group of friends I wanted to play with broke up before we had the chance. Maybe with the pandemic over, I will pitch the idea to my nephew, he has the base game, so I have to bring only the expansions. :D
As for the Witcher, Maybe I will risk the Mages expansion. That looks a good addition to me, even if it doesn't add new mechanics to the game, I like the extra options for the players. Sigh. I think it's time to revisit the KS page and see what's added in the stretch goals.
Hey mate. Cheers for being the nail in coffin. On top of the price (I'm in Australia), with no solo (don't really get money's worth in a pandemic), my kids now get new shoes each, instead of one pair between them.
New to you channel and love it. Great info, good chuckles and engaging.
I pledge $1 on The Witcher and Mosaic. I'm on the fence with both.
I like the narrative aspect of it, it's the Witcher after all. It should have little mini stories and quests. That was a big chunk of the video games.
I don't mind games that last a bit longer. And I don't mind games that are a bit more lightweight. And I've already come up with several house rules that will add more complexity after my friends and I have played through the main game a few times.
The rulebook issue I can understand for people who want to know how solo and coop work. But when I buy a game in a store that I've never played before, I never get to see a rulebook. I see a quick synopsis on the back of the box and make a decision if it looks like a game I want.
I have a few reasons for backing, I love the Witcher IP, I love deck-building games, my friends and I have been playing board games for years, my girlfriend loves miniatures and painting them and can even use them in future DnD campaigns.
I'm not going all-in, I'm only getting the deluxe edition and the legendary hunt expansion. As a Canadian it is really expensive, but I've been looking forward to this since it was first announced a few months ago. Your video did not talk me out of backing this game. I'm still as excited as ever.
That's great to hear! I hope you love it, sounds like you will :)
@@RoomandBoardReviews haha, thank you, I sure hope so. It'll be a darn shame if I get the game and it's terrible. I've never spent this much on a board game before (well over $200 in our plastic monopoly money).
I like the Witcher IP so much. Witcher 3 is still my favourite game ever to this day. Loving board games, it's just natural for me to want it. It's good that the gameplay looks pretty decent. Story is why I like the Witcher, so that is not a problem for me.
Nice! Hope you love it even more than the video game!!
These all-in pledges are so tempting. So far Everdell, Robinson crusoe and ISS vanguard have gotten me...and here I sit looking at the Witcher thinking, "well maybe just one more". Blowing my game budget for the rest of the year, and then some.
Hahah, I feel that on EVERY single kickstarter I look at - what's the harm! I tell myself - I mean, I've got a youtube channel now ... I need the content to unbox down the line, right!?
I do think it's brutal they've now added those three exclusive minis to ONLY the all in pledge and not the Deluxe, but I guess they have to up that temptation!
I love the IP and the minis but the game looks really boring too me. Number 3 is the killer. I wish they made it more complex. A lot of the mechanics look really put-on (dice poker for example). The most killing fact for me is at the end, that I would not find players for that casual game. I believe I would play it 1-2 time and then it´s over. Spending that money just for the minis is not worth. So just my opinion. I hope a lot of people will enjoy the game.
Yup, 100% in the same boat, I just don't see it being brought out enough to warrant the cost.
I'm not a Witcher fan, never read the books, played Witcher 3 only for a few hours. But I'm so hyped for this game. I love the minis and watched some reviews as well.
Awesome! Hope you love it!
beware of the hype, its coming from ALL angles in this game ... look at the gameplay to see if you like it - its pretty shallow
@@gasa5251 Already watched a few reviews and I like the gameplay :). It's kind of a lighter but fun game.
Give the video game another shot, you won't regret it. Books are also awesome. Hope this boardgame is not just a cashgrab for the minis exploiting the IP.
Your background is awesome!
So, any new thoughts on the game in 2022?
In retrospect, I'm happy with my decision to not get it, but I don't think the value was necessarily a horrible one vs what you'd get now. I still worry about the longevity and I think I don't necessarily need tons of narrative passages in my games, but the base pledge I think might have been decent. It's still one of those where I was probably the closest to backing out of 2021, but didn't pull the trigger. And I think if you hadn't commented I likely wouldn't have thought of it for a long while, so that makes me happy with my decision.
For the solo and co-op players I would be a bit cautious. From what I’ve heard the solo and co-op feels “tacked on” rather than the main focus which is competitive. That being said I have not seen much solo or co-op game play so I am not exactly sure to what degree “tacked on” is true. But if you are primarily a solo and or co-op game I probably would hesitate before backing this game .
Excellent video my man! Very helpful
Glad to hear, thanks :)
I have just one problem
Beck this game on Kickstarter or wait until July to pre-order it on Ukrainian? (All KSE should be included in both versions)
It the hardest part of this Kickstarter for me.
I imagine it would be a pretty similar cost, but if one would give you a cheaper shipping option my guess would be the Ukrainian route. Unless there's a chance you'll miss out on some of the stuff, but by then the late pledges should be open on kickstarter anyway. I think the company would get more money if you don't get it on kickstarter because they'd save the fees.
@@RoomandBoardReviews many thanks for explaining. They are really helpful!
I will say the 3rd expansion really made me question the value of the entire game. I'm in at deluxe currently, but it seems like such a better deal to just pick up the base pledge and maybe get an expansion or 2, as I can take or leave the minis. I will say the one thing thats kept me in, is they seem to honestly take in feedback and critism that is thrown there way.
I pledged the Deluxe and maybe I'll grab the Legendary Hunt later. The other 2 expansions doesn't seem to worth their price.
Base pledges are decent. I am a huge witcher fan and I love painting minis so the deluxe pledge is a no-brainer. The add-ons and all-in pledge on the other hand...
Yeah the add-ons really do feel lacklustre to me. I can't wait to see the minis painted though!
I don't see any reason to back in deluxe. For what? For monster miniatures that will stay only on the map and hide something important from me. Nope. Just the core box. It's the best choice.
Did you eventually back ? :)
I didn't end up backing this one, but in retrospect, comparing the base pledge to all the other 1 million kickstarters of that year, it was a pretty decent value back I think. It's just I wasn't sure if the gameplay was going to be up my alley or not, so figured this is one I'd rather try somewhere first. There's a slight tinge of regret, but not too much :)
Geralt mini looks awesome!!!
As a canadian this KS just doesnt seem worth it! Soo expensive
the free expansions make it worth it. but if you only want the base game, then yes very not worth it given the currency exchange + shipping.
Are there any solo game alternatives to this game?
I'm not much of a solo gamer, but I feel like Mage Knight might be worth looking into if you haven't. Just because it has the sprawling map with quests. Not too much narrative elements, and it won the solo board game tournament I had in our discord as well, so I know it's super popular. Definitely going to be more complex than the witcher though. You might want to look up sandbox games with a solo mode as well to give you the feeling you're looking for
Nice video, but the first three points really just covered why buy the game at all, rather than KS back it. Would have been good to hear points on getting now vs retail with maybe less content
p.s. I have also dropped my pledge down to $1 - while i love the ip, just thinking of getting at retail in a year and a half instead... can't see ks exclusives tipping me or price being much different, in fact retail often cheaper, and the second hand (new) market is going to be flooded
@@davemurray7690 I definitely think the second hand market will be flooded, but I don't know if I expect that much of a reduction on price down the line, either through retail or the secondhand market. But I'm really not sure on the retail points, so didn't want to talk about my speculations in terms of leading people astray. Their last two Kickstarters, Tiitans and Valhalla are hard to find at the retail level, and are about 5-10 euros more than their respective base pledge levels - but then of course if you can find them in stores you don't have to pay for that shipping cost. But with that, you don't get the stretch goals.
However, that being said, this has had such success, I'm sure their reach will differ from their previous ones, in addition to the IP it feels like you'll be able to get it through other channels, and all the MSRPs seem way overpriced and expensive, but judging from their previous campaigns (when I cross referenced the campaigns and the pledge managers over on Gamefound), their MSRPs from those were accurate to what they're selling them for afterwards. So your guess is as good as mine for what's going to come out when and for how much.
I think with most reviewers saying it needs the extra Monster Trail and Adventure cards to remain fresh, if you're interested in the game, i think the kickstarter is probably the better way to go to secure those extras for you, but if you've got a good secondary market to draw from, chances are you could find someone selling their pledge at cost down the line too.
Thanks!
This video took the words right out of my mouth.
Goodness, these older videos for campaigns that are long-closed, they kill me. Did you end up backing?
Should do a video eventually about games you backed after making one of these videos haha
This was one that in retrospect might have been the last "good deal" on kickstarter. The amount of SG content feels nice when looking back, but it was my over enthusiasm for the minis that my enthusiasm for the gameplay wasn't able to match, so I'm still okay having not backed this one.
@@RoomandBoardReviews imma be real real with you, Chris George. I'm considering paying $300 for the deluxe with all the SG/add-ons from a re-seller called "The Game Steward." I need you now more than ever to talk me down lmao
@@FrightfulFailures Watch the video!!! Didn't it save you? Watch it again!!
@@FrightfulFailures I think that's way too much for this sort of game, unless you're a huge mini painter and these speak to you more than any in the world. It's done well enough for sure it'll come to retail in some aspect and you can get pieces and try out the base game. There's going to be a lot of reading a card and see what happens and not as much gameplay I think
@@RoomandBoardReviews okay okay, you're right. God, the FOMO is real. Just start making WWCGD bracelets for all of us to wear when we're considering paying too much for board games lpl
"we don't have a rulebook" - end of pondering... if a project founder is not able to provide a comprehensive albeit not complete rulebook during the campaign this has become a red flag for me. also, while it seems cool, when people listen to feedback, i am not so sure that it is a great idea to implement any suggestions on the fly only to keep the crowd happy. Massive Darkness campaign play shows where this can lead into. Awaken Realms' Nemesis was the only time I saw suggestions by the community neatly integrated into the final product.. but they did so.. tentively with a clear politics to not interfere with their original concept. All in all.. I was interested in Witcher, just a few looks at what and how it is presented snuffed it out.
Did a 1€ pledge but probably not going to back it because :
- just solid gameplay doesn't cut it with so many games to play and I don't really see anything that wows me mechanism-wise
- dumb dice poker thing is red flag for me that designer ran out of interesting idea's or is not very capable to add more interesting design
- forgets to capture a core element of Witcher profession which is to explore, scout, learn, investigate about the monsters and their weakness
- not reassured that added game elements in expansions will be balanced / tested enough
- not too fond of the idea of 'racing' to be the first to 'capture/kill' something to win
- while I like the encounter story element of cards like in Eldritch Horror, don't know if it's enough to justify this game's purchase
- deckbuilding seems solid and ok but there're much better and more interesting deckbuilders on market
A great list, I think you hit the nail on the head here. A lot of people have been saying they're worried about the expansions not being tested enough, which is a really good point and is so hard to gauge.
Buy 3 Sell 2 @ 150% cost = Free Game and you will still save 2 people money who may end up at the scalpers like The Game Stewards
Love The Witcher 3 but didn’t like this.
Too light, too overhyped because of the IP which i believe is the main reason this got over the line.
Main thing I didn’t like were the encounter/ event cards (can’t remember what term was used) It’s a broken mechanic because they’re a choose A or B option card which once you’ve played the game few times your automatically going to know what the favourable option is.
Yeah, I definitely agree. My main draw to this one was the cool miniatures, which is fine, but also when the most exciting part is really separate from the actual game itself, makes me much less enthusiastic.
Oh no! Gotta watch out for those rogue Witcher fanatics just running around and punching people in the face! 😂 Anyways, they got me for the Deluxe Pledge. The IP is super popular with my gaming group so I know that it will get played. I refuse to go all-in, though!
I came to think like Darkest Dungeon, why play it on table when you can play it in video? My wife would always ask me. It is easier and faster in video hehehe
Thanks for your video. I don't think that i will back the game. I don't have the feeling, yes i want it.
I look nearly every day to find the reason... Actually the only reason is the hype. Because there is no rulebook.
Just a random bump comment. Thanks for the vid and gl with your channel/
Thanks so much, that means a lot!
Black eye backstory plz
Haha, I wish it were interesting, I just got a bad stye that's been lingering and reactivating at inopportune times. ORR maybe it was the Cave Troll cursing his fists into the sky, angry at his representation, that just happened to pop me in the eye as I was sailing on by.
Thank you for the really good summary, you bought up points i had not considered, i was pretty keen at the beginning but as things have moved forward Im getting a bad feeling in the pit of my stomach ....
I'm currently backing because I like the idea of the Witchers hand of card during the fight - note i am very concerned about the monsters card hand, with the charge or bite options. After a year of development or how ever long they have taken it didnt occur to them that the monster fights are all the same, and in the space of a couple of days they came up with the fix to make every monster feel different... will they? will the addition of 1 to 4 cards in a hand of 12 to 20 odd cards actually make 30 monsters feel unique? They will still charge or bite.
Also the event/exploration cards dont seem to have much engagement, you may as well say i pick option A or option B and find out what you get... that doesnt make a narrative game to me.
I also don't like being taken for an idiot, by saying how great all these are when they clearly are pretty plain.. translate this hype, but it is everywhere, from pretty every review to even the Devs themselves telling us what a great deal it and how generous they are... as you said, it is an expensive game, even with the dubious stretch goals and "expansions". Tell me how a horse miniature and 7 cards is an expansion - its clearly a stretch goal.
The card fighting from the Witcher is still pretty attractive (so long as its not wrecked by all additional cards they are adding) - though in one play-through they deck built so much the monsters were not even close to a challenge - that really concerns me to
Maybe the Tainted Grail card combat is just better thought out in the end, or maybe the Witcher Devs can make 30 monsters feel unique and challenging ...
Yeah estimated MSRP of the stretch goal expansions we're getting does seem ridiculous, like the value is inflated for the sake of making people feel like a deal, because I don't see how 200 cards should cost 30 euros. There's an upcoming economic game coming out on Kickstarter next Tuesday Peak Oil Profiteer that I just finished editing a video for who's whole game has that price point.
Although I will say, when trying to find their previous games Titans and Valhalla I did notice that their estimates were pretty much still true, although the only place I could find them for sale is as a game found late pledge so I don't know if elsewhere it'd eventually be cheaper. If I'm giving them the benefit of the doubt, I'd say maybe they're used to having smaller print runs and needing things to be more expensive because they're being produced in a lower quality, but you'd also think they'd know this ahead of time so I don't know.
I do really like the devs though - they seem really passionate and development is supposed to continue until October they're saying so I do have faith that they'll be able to put the time into testing these additions, but yeah, I'm with you, great points all around.
I don't get what's up with blown up kickstarters for light games lately. I'm a big fan of both Marvel and Witcher and also a painter but unfortunately both games seem too light and not interesting. Besides, they're just ridiculously expensive if you want it all with minis.
I know! I'm thrilled that the games are doing well and there's so much interest, but the all-in price always seems so far out of the realms of possibility for what I can justify and afford.
The game really isn’t as story driven as you make it out to be. The only story you get are when you explore, pick up and complete quests, and kill monsters but it can for the most part be skipped to what those cards contribute mechanically to the game.
Out of curiosity, with the rule books being published for the main game and the expansions and images of the minis giving us a closer look at them, where are you at now on backing?
I think it's too late to late pledge if you didn't contribute 1 dollar to the campaign, but I think I'm still happy with my choice. I mentioned this when I ranked all the 1 million dollar campaigns at the end of the year, but from a pure value standpoint, I feel like the Witcher really provided some of the most value in their stretch goals for sure. So the base pledge feels like it'll be a pretty good buy for a lot of people. And I've always loved the minis, haha, they're what drew me into it in the first place. Some really cool unique sculpts for sure. I'm still fine with it not being on my shelf just because of the gameplay loop for me isn't completely drawing me in, but I think those who got it will definitely enjoy it :)
All In here
Ya after all was said and done my backing this cost $550.00 cdn. I nearly shit a brick
I didn't get this game or X-men United. Both didn't seem that interesting enough to me. I also have many games I didn't play yet, and many that are on their way.
100% When I think of the games I have coming and how excited I am for them to arrive, this one just doesn't meet that level for me.
Goonboard 😂😂 that was a good one xD
Hahaha, thank you! You're the first one to comment about it!
@@RoomandBoardReviews haha surprised I am :D
i wanted to go allin but then i said to myself i got soooo many board games at home I didnt play yet and this is not something with wow effect gameplay wise.....on the other hand i will instead of the witcher probably back soul raiders that grabbed me with mechanics and lore
Totally, that wow factor is key. Soul Raiders wasn't really jumping out to me either which I was a little bummed about because I really like Marc Andrei - what excited you about it?
@@RoomandBoardReviews I love the art combat in the game, movement mechanics reminds me a bit baldurs gate feeling on PC back in the days 😁 i know it sounds wierd
preordered deluxe edition with most bonuses.......
Nice! Hope you love it!
I am convinced, i should cancel and wait for a more fitting kickstarter, i might have followed the hype more then the game.
Hy, 2 year later. I see that you are truth about everything! The so much waiting tour, the light game play, not epic gameplay and storytelling at the table etc.. So, just say good job and prevision!! (sorry for my English I'm French^^ps I'm not backing but just see party and it's exactly what you said
I'm glad it retrospect it checks out! Thanks for saying so :)
Never start blinking, bro...
I backed all-in because of the game play.
I've watched all the gameplays I could find and I must say I'm really excited to play this game. I'm backing it with only the standard version, because the minis are beautiful but not essential
Nice, yeah I think that's the way to do it. And if you want minis on the board you can always use the wild Hunt hounds!
I originally was excited when this was announced, but I watched some gameplay videos and became less and less interested. It just doesn't look like a game that would have any staying power in my group, ergo, not worth the investment for me. Which is great, considering I'm for sure backing the relaunch of Wild Assent. 😅
I've heard good things about Wild Assent, I definitely want to check it out!
There'll be two boxes. One for the main game, second for SG.
Yeah most likely, but at least there isn't that third extra monster box too, I'm pretty appreciative of that sort of thing
I really want to believe you but I just don't trust someone without a last name.
Haha, they say never trust a man with two first names, luckily I have two first names as my middle names so it cancels it out!
Alright, my boy Chris George. You finally did it. You've finally convinced me of completing my first cancellation of the crowd funding addiction... Thanks... Dobby is free!
Dobby is free!!! ahaha
To be honest...i have money. I'm all-in. No excuse. In the store(probably) the price will be high the same (like nemesis). The real problem is the few kickstarter exclusive.
Nice! Hey if I had more money I'd be grabbing it too haha. And I think you're right, if I had to bet I'd say this is the best deal rather than trying to collect it all down the line.
Honestly I'm not bothered with the paid expansions. The Skellige expansion seems the most egregious. Feels like it was meant to be a drawn out stretch goal and they just decided to charge money for it. The mages expansion has gotten slightly better with the stretch goals but it's still not worth the price for me. If the whole thing ended up being 200 quid before shipping, including the coins and Eredin figure, then it'd be more reasonable.
The All in Stretch goal just added proves their greed. Holy fuck. You have to pay full price just to get 3 monsters...
Oh man, thanks for pointing that out, that seems like a brutal choice. Why not just add it to the Deluxe pledge since that's your mini centric pledge.
Tales of the Witcher Nights...
I think some of the mini's look like canaries on a perch.The game didn't grab me at all.