I sincerely appreciated the advice and will "only" go for the core game after watching your video (as I was strongly thinking about the all-in). I wanna be more a player than a collecting addict. My wallet thanks you too!
Had the Commander's Pledge (non-sundrop) and personnel expansion picked out, but more and more I've been struggling to justify an extra box of miniatures that just sit on the map and don't move, especially since they provide standees for those. Had to get a little creative to match money but I ended up replacing the commander pledge with the Base pledge (with sundrop), left the personnel expansion, added the dice upgrade, and added the deck holders (with sundrop). Ended up adding $1 to the price. I feel a little better now that even though I still spent $190 + $45 shipping for a board game, the extra expense is now going towards things that will actually get a lot of use (dice, deck holders) rather than really elaborate pawns. I let my practical side win on this one.
The fact that they're making this an iterative process (changing the game and sending updated prototypes for feedback) makes me want to throw money at them
People were ready to throw money at them before already... Now I wouldn't be surprised if some decide on getting a larger flat just to have enough space for the next 3 games...
In going through the addons, you skipped over the Deadly Frontier campaign, which was the thing I was waiting for you to talk about! Do you have any thoughts on its value? Thanks for making this video!
I just got core pledge + personal files. Was tempted by the $59 expansion but we’ll probably never get to it with all the other games we have. Our backlog just kept growing during Covid times and we already have loads of games I want to play more.
Same here. I think it's best option, ofc split shipment. I don't know what to think about new campaign expansion, extra minis not needed for this game IMO. . But I am still thinking about playmats.
@@marcinczyzewski5021 I actually did single wave shipping because I definitely have enough games to entertain me until it’s all ready to go. Playmats are always nice but expensive.
@@tomlikeabomb6706 Yeah good call too. But actually I have small collection hehe, and I wanted so bad to get just ISS Vanguard core box faster, I was hooked so much by this game. One more thing, I am from Poland so I will be waiting more, because of translation process. I've already backed/late pledged 3 games this year and have room only maybe for one or two more, we will see. I don't wanna end with more than 5 games backed, that's my aim 😁.
@@tomlikeabomb6706 Thanks :). Yeah I know how it works, but for me it's much easier and more clearly, when more than 80% crowdfunded boardgames don't come with my native language version, so I am not interested in it automatically 😁. I made only one exception for Hexploreit:The Domain of Mirza Noctis, but I backed only core box. I love theme of this game and for me it feels truly so close to real RPG game, not like all dungeoncrawlers and adventure boardgames. So I couldn't pass on it hehe.
This video helped me realize the minis expansion was just not for me, drop my pledge and use my already pledged money to get some of the cool add-ons. I like these breakdown videos, and I have found it super helpful as this is my first "big" game that I have backed. Thanks for the great content!
Hi Alex ! You didn't mention the campaign expansion deadly frontier as if it is a good add (like the personal files) or not. Currently I'm on the fence between just the core box or the core box+deadly frontier ... Great video as always btw ;)
I've already paid for my late pledge, split shipment Core Box+ Personal Files expansion. Extra minis from expansion maybe look great, I was thinking about it since I missed Gamefound campaign. But finally I asked myself that how much it will impact on my playing and I know it's not what I need. Standees and 8 minis will be enough. New campaign expansion probably I will buy in retail. There is so much content in Core Box big campaign, also with second wave will come second campaign and 5 scenarios/operations it will be enough for a long time. I am still thinking about playmats.
Thanks, Alex. I always appreciate your views on games and the fact that you consider them quite objectively. Now I have a better idea about how to tailor my pledge.
I'm in at the Dreadnought All-In Sundrop currently. I kind of want the boxes and mats, but not the dice or pets. With 3 months on the pledge manager, I just may end up fully upgrading...
So looking for some clarification. If the pledge manager will be open for three more months. How will the game then ship in August 2021 like it states first wave will?
I think he answered by saying the core will be enough but I also would like to know what he thinks about it specifically. Edit: I saw it answering more directly to the Mun Leong post.
I considered going all-in for a minute there, but then realized I'll have too many campaign games to play through when they show up and not nearly enough time to play through them all if I go crazy on expansions. I ended up dropping the Personnel Files and Galactic Almanac and upgrading to the sun-drop core game so I only had to pay a dollar more with shipping factored in. Today I've chosen to (more or less) power through my addiction and save some money. "Code monkey have boring meeting With boring manager, Rob" Such a good song. Once again, you've proven to have impeccable taste.
My wife and I sat down and looked at the pledge manager last night. We decided to go with the section boxes and dice tower and skipped out on everything else. We actually liked the base P.E.T. better than the upgrades so we decided against adding those. As much as we loved the painted/sun dropped minis, the budget won out over the wow factor. Side note: There is something rewarding about making purchase like this with your significant other. Or maybe it's just simple guilt reduction.
I am comfortably holding steady with the sundrop core box. I have a few big games coming and I KNOW I won't get through the core game, much less expansions. And while I love minis (who doesn't!) I agree they don't seem essential here.
Absolutely :) I guess spending 30 minutes listening to someone talk about not even the campaign, but the pledge manager for the campaign... That definitely qualifies as stockham syndrome.
Agree 100% with your analysis. I originally backed Core Box + Personal Files. I'm slightly tempted by the core box sundrop since it's only $10 and will likely greatly improve the miniature presentation of the core box characters. I'm also considering dropping Personal Files before finalizing unless AW states that it will be in Wave 1. Otherwise, it won't be available to begin gameplay and therefore not likely useful. I'd really like that content so hope they get that sorted soon! Lastly, also want to know what the base section card box solution looks like. I doubt I'll spend $40 for the add-on boxes even though they look really nice but I'd more likely look for a cheaper DIY solution if not happy with the base game boxes. Thanks for the update and analysis!
It opened, I went in and grabbed core box, deadly frontier, and personnel files, then submitted immediately. I don't need to wander around any more on there and inevitably end up with minis and add-ons. Gameplay drew me in and I need to stick with that.
I completely agree with you on the pets. They put a couple of the pets with the wrong group/section. I will be doing exactly like you said with the pets. I will be using the bird/owl for the recon section and the Lima for science. I might use the monkey for security, because of trunk monkey. LOL. I haven’t decide yet though.
Great breakdown on the PM. Two things to note: 1) The Dice Upgrade for those wondering replaces your dice you get versus it being a second set (lowers the cost of the 70+ dice) this is more informative for those unaware even though when you click through you will see it. I actually lean to the original dice versus the upgrade but this is purely cosmetic so I see how people may like either or. 2) The Section boxes in your prototype received from what I can tell watching the various videos was very much a placeholder as it was a different companies deck boxes being used (Gamegenic) to hold everything if I am recalling correctly. I believe comments in the FB group where saying one of the previous Awaken Realm Games the insert for base game was well worth getting upgrade as it was challenging to fit things properly in. The CON here is its been confirm by AR that the Section boxes will NOT FIT in the core box so for those wanting to maintain space this is a potential issue. Other than that super stoked for the game I am all game play in + mini (minus pets), art book, and section boxes. 100% concur on the sleeves I can never recommend spending premium on sleeves but this is mainly due to there always being great deals even on high quality sleeves where you can save good money for other things for this game.
Late pledge is still open, I might just get the core pledge with sundrop. For 110$, it is pretty good value for money and I just don't have enough place to store more than a couple of boxes.
owl in greece and slavic mythology is symbol of wisdom and knowledge, so for me it gives sence that they go this way. my high school have owl with two cogs in claws in school logo almost 20years (focused on mechanical engineering in 60s-70s)
I went for the $99 pledge last year. I'm tempted by some of these new things but I can't imagine going all-in. Maybe I'll get one extra. But if I'm getting one I might as well get two or three... And therein lies the problem. :)
I just got the back stories and player mats. Went with one wave shipping. I thought the same thing about sleeves I have sleeves left over from Tainted Grail that I will use for this game or just use Sleeve Kings to save the money. I already have so much to play (TG, Gloomhaven, Etherfields, Dawn of Maddness) I can wait for this to get here.
I'm for sure getting more than what I need, but that's what I do with Awaken Realms. This reminded me of your talk with Quackalope and if kickstarter is good for the space. We use to go and buy a game from a game store for $100 tops and we'd enjoy it for months. Now we have this buying addiction to get all the gameplay content just on the fear of missing out.
First, the recon pet is clearly the Mr. Mime pokemon! At least, I can't see anything else. Second, the sleeves package offered comes with an insert to store cards, so it's not entirely a one to one comparison versus sleeve kings. Liked the video all the same!
Choo choo! I did Gameplay all-in with most of the add-ons. I skipped out on the Dice Tower (seems like an aethetics only upgrade) and I skipped sleeves, because I doubt I'll wear the cards down enough to need them...and I can get them later from Sleeve Kings.
I bumped from Dreadnaught to Ultimate. I love Sleeve Kings but there is a storage issue, AR is bad for insert space. That said something you may have missed: The fancy card/dice holders will fit within the core box in place of the original tubs! It was in the description or the update? I can't check at the moment.
Excellent video, asking the questions we all need to ask of ourselves, and giving a very good overview / reasoning for each. For my part, that decision re: deadly campaign is certainly easy to defer. I suspect completing the core content would be as far as I'd go, even though I used to think of myself as gameplay above all else. Still debating the crew cards, but if they are wave 2 I will defer the decision. I'm surprisingly tempted by the deck/section boxes, having loved the design of the Etherfields ones, but I agreed with your logic that they were impractical. these not only organise cards and dice well, but also fit in the core box [EDIT: It appears they don't - but instead have their own separate box a la Etherfields - that might save me some money!!]. That makes a big difference.
I agree that I strongly recommend the personnel files. That even if it’s part of wave 2, wave 2 will include additional campaigns for people to play through. I also go with the pets and the dice as very good add ons value wise.
So i had a hard time with this, because If im not mistaken the game-play all in group pledge is 249, but if you actually just do the gameplay all in yourself its actually only 174. Or am i wrong, does close encounters miniatures expansion come with some sort of gameplay content besides replacing standees with miniatures? I'm saving myself 70 dollars by not doing the minis unless im missing something.
Alex, I agree with so much in this video. First, the bird pet absolutely belongs in Recon, the Recon logo is wings for crying out loud. Second, I completely endorse you mispronouncing Personal Files as Personnel Files because it really should be renamed that, and they definitely have to get this into wave 1. I'm excited about the changes to the ship book and think the changes to the prelude/tutorial sound like a good idea. But I didn't understand what he was describing when he was talking about the changes to the dice mechanics. I believe he said they wanted to encourage rolling larger dice pools more often, which sounds like a fun thing to encourage.
Mind you my first big game through Kickstarter games was with Dark Souls and I went all-in with that. I think it was 14 boxes all together and it was close to $400 with shipping. Maybe I'm jaded since I buy Zombicide GH and Invader and those were about $400+ before shipping. $530 for a complete bundle in Vanguard doesn't even phase me anymore, that being said I need definitely have been more conservative about getting extra expansions for games going forward. I most likely will do a Commander's pledge sundrop and get a few things. I wonder if I can pay a regular Commander's pledge now and upgrade later since the pledge manager is open for 3 months. Those section deck boxes are great, I definitely want those. The pets not so much. Great video Alex.
Alex, I have issues with this video, you skipped over the additional campaign box and the why should I either back it or not, and more importantly, you did not share the Coltrane song link. Other than that, thank you for your insights :-) One more aspect that you should consider analyzing: Is the really big box that will store your All-in pledge if you choose 1-wave shipping worth it? you know, because "it comes in a box" :-p
Thanks for info on personal cards, I shouldn't have gone for 2 wave shipping could have got them for $1 , wonder if they will offer me a credit if I change to single wave shipping.
I pledged for Core and Deadly Frontiers sundrop and Personal files as I am not into miniatures that much and want all gameplay content. Costs me $247.50 including two wave shipping.
Well, I am lucky that I like to spent time to paint in my holidays on my own. Otherwise yeah. At the moment I only finished paying for shipping. :) I like the new dice. Check. But for everything else I am not sure. 12 days ago I opened my Descent boxes for saving the progress and I remembered I played this campain 12 years ago. So I put everything back in the box and was a little bit sad because: I still have contact to all my friends from 12 years ago but because of distance and family (kids) we will not finish the campain.
I think the logic behind the science pet, is that it kinda looks like an owl, which was the sacred bird of the Greek Goddess Athena, which was the Goddess of Wisdom among other things.
Two things I didn't see or might have missed in this vid: a) on the sleeves conversation: sure, sleevekings would be cheaper, but there is a "also includes an insert to fit sleeved cards" line. Would that change the conversation? b) after personal files, you skipped discussing deadly frontier. Whats your comment on that?
Honestly, if you're willing to use Sleeve Kings, nothing is going to factor in to using better sleeves. The only reason anyone uses Sleeve Kings is the price, and thus price is the only factor.
Hey Alex. Thanks for the run-through! When I purchase games like this, I often end up painting them and selling them. If you had to guess, do you think the painted-model option through GameFound will make selling hand-painted models easier or more difficult? I generally paint to a “Tabletop+” standard, and I’m not sure what their paint jobs will look like. Thanks!
Alex, I was wondering, cost-wise: would it be better to hold off on getting the expansion until the wave 2 pledge manager opens up (giving us more time to see if this is a game that we will actually enjoy and make our way through), or go ahead and get a pledge level that has the expansion? Ive done the math a couple of times and I don't think there's enough of a discount to dreadnaught and the all in to make it a must buy. For reference I'm totally getting the section boxes and dice upgrades and I'm debating the minis so I'm not adverse to a higher pledge but I have WAYYYY too many games to play as is
I remember when $40 was an expensive board game purchase and $60 seemed almost absurd. $300 now? Well it's not out of consideration! Still worried I might up my $1 Nemesis pledge when the PM opens again...
Thanks for the reminder. I just got the $99 core pledge, with 2 wave shipping. While I am as much a mini painter, as a gamer. These mini's are not the type I prefer. I have a years + worth of GW stuff to paint and lots coming over the next 2 years. From MU:X-Men, Zombicide: Undead or Alive and Lasting Tails: Set 1 and 2.
You're so damn right with everything you say 😁 spent way too much money yesterday on the Pledge Manager, all to make the game look prettier next year when it comes out... Sundrop, mats, pets... And of course a record 48$ shipping 🙇♂️ also got the personal files but don't see the sense in just getting it in the second wave...
My concern is how much of the add-ons will actually fit in the base game box. I wouldn't want any player mats or section boxes if I have to store them separately and they take up even more shelf space.. 😬
Llama’s are used to protect livestock. I wouldn’t say they’re as effective as donkeys but they will kill a coyote or a dog trying to get at sheep. So Llamas work perfectly as the security section.
I agree with you, so I'm in the core pledge on this. Debating if should add the deadly frontier. The section boxes are cool and a good price I think, but will they fit the core box organiser? Thanks for the great video as always.
I had the same thought about the personnel files, I almost removed them from the pledge manager because I didn't want to pay the extra for split shipping.
Oh I so agree with the bird pet. The moment I saw this I thought, shouldn’t that be recon! That’s strange. How is that big bunny thing going to keep up with a jet pack?
I actually wanted to buy the pets expansion by itself since I have no interest in the game, but to hell with $30 shipping for a $25 product. Maybe retail will have it?
I skipped the sleeves, dice tower, posters and sparkle dice keeping me under 500 but i got everything sundropped so not far under. I honestly like the nice clear colors of the base dice and think the sparkle will make them harder to read. Hoping they do a video comparison though
After the amount of stuff I've still got coming in Waves from Awaken Realms (Etherfields and Lockdown) , and games I've yet to complete (Tainted Grail) I suspect I won't even touch this game til Wave 2 arrives.
As a victim of BGSS (Board Game Stockholm Syndrome), I initially felt pretty happy with the price of the Ultimate All-In Pledge ... then I remembered that the painted miniatures cost extra. :-( I'm really tempted to get the Painted Heroes set, but unfortunately, it doesn't ship until AFTER wave 2! What's the point in getting beautiful miniatures for a game I've finished? Are you planning on getting either the Painted Heroes or the Everything Painted?
@@Dragonnox Me too. Actually I am grateful for you guys' comment which reminds me to take a careful look at the miniature expansion as well. Given how many boxes warhammer in my bedroom, I decided to skip those. To be honest, even if I have the time to paint those, I won't use them anyway--I never used any my mom 2nd miniatures. Also skipped the DF campaign since I think this will be shipped in 2nd wave and will be available in retail later and they usually have 80% discount.
Yeah...this was my first kick starter. I fell for FOMO and upgraded from the old "complete" ($200 something) to the All In Pleadge...hey it was only another $200-something, right? It's only one kickstarter...right?
The one issue I have with the dice...If you upgrade them, you DON'T get the normal dice. They are replaced with the upgraded dice. Me personally; Base game, Deadly Frontier and Personal Files. I really hope they are able to include the Personal Files in wave one.
I backed core+expansion+personal files+ dice (the translucency of the base set and seeing symbols from other sides of the dice would drive me batty)+dice tower(it looks cool, and I don't have one). However I went single wave shipping....I want the personal files to play with the game, so better for me if it arrives at all the same time, and there are plenty of other games to play while waiting.....just need to ignore all spoilers when wave 1 ships.
I just ordered the base game so hopefully will be here monday. Not too worried about expansions yet. I really want the close encounter miniatures tho. I hate cardboard standees!
3 роки тому
Hmmm... I went in all gameplay stuff on TG and Etherfields. But neither has arrived yet. Language + one way shipping is killing me. So I played nothing at all... ;_; Should I do it again and take the leap?
The thing that annoys me about the new all in pledge is that it's sundrop. I paint my minis, so it's a waste to get sundrop. The dice tower looks weird too: it doesn't look like there are any baffles inside, so your dice will just drop right through. Obviously it is only a early visualisation, not finalise. So hopefully they'll fix that. At a guess: the change to crew will likely speed things up a little as you make decisions as you go, instead of having to refer back to other sections to help make your decisions. And for the pets: what about mounted security? The thing they currently have for recon looks more robotic so could work for the science section.
owl is symbol of wisdom. someone took weird decision, when it was added as science P.E.T. I agree with Alex, the owl would be more suited as recon P.E.T.
Hi Alex. What's your thought on the deadly frontiers expansion? You mentioned the Personal files but skipped past deadly frontiers.
I sincerely appreciated the advice and will "only" go for the core game after watching your video (as I was strongly thinking about the all-in). I wanna be more a player than a collecting addict. My wallet thanks you too!
Had the Commander's Pledge (non-sundrop) and personnel expansion picked out, but more and more I've been struggling to justify an extra box of miniatures that just sit on the map and don't move, especially since they provide standees for those. Had to get a little creative to match money but I ended up replacing the commander pledge with the Base pledge (with sundrop), left the personnel expansion, added the dice upgrade, and added the deck holders (with sundrop). Ended up adding $1 to the price. I feel a little better now that even though I still spent $190 + $45 shipping for a board game, the extra expense is now going towards things that will actually get a lot of use (dice, deck holders) rather than really elaborate pawns. I let my practical side win on this one.
Thanks for not judging that most of us are slightly insane in this hobby. ;)
Absolutely :)
I was being fiscally responsible and only backed the core originally. Now I am all-in + sundrop + split. Have mercy on me!
This is my first kickstarter board game that i'm buying :)
The fact that they're making this an iterative process (changing the game and sending updated prototypes for feedback) makes me want to throw money at them
People were ready to throw money at them before already... Now I wouldn't be surprised if some decide on getting a larger flat just to have enough space for the next 3 games...
For me it sounds like the original gameplay wasn't fun, I'm waiting for wave 1 reviews before I can decide if I want the game.
Throw the dough my friend, you’ll feel better.
In going through the addons, you skipped over the Deadly Frontier campaign, which was the thing I was waiting for you to talk about! Do you have any thoughts on its value?
Thanks for making this video!
I just got core pledge + personal files. Was tempted by the $59 expansion but we’ll probably never get to it with all the other games we have. Our backlog just kept growing during Covid times and we already have loads of games I want to play more.
Same here. I think it's best option, ofc split shipment. I don't know what to think about new campaign expansion, extra minis not needed for this game IMO. . But I am still thinking about playmats.
@@marcinczyzewski5021 I actually did single wave shipping because I definitely have enough games to entertain me until it’s all ready to go. Playmats are always nice but expensive.
@@tomlikeabomb6706 Yeah good call too. But actually I have small collection hehe, and I wanted so bad to get just ISS Vanguard core box faster, I was hooked so much by this game. One more thing, I am from Poland so I will be waiting more, because of translation process.
I've already backed/late pledged 3 games this year and have room only maybe for one or two more, we will see. I don't wanna end with more than 5 games backed, that's my aim 😁.
@@marcinczyzewski5021 haha good luck with that. It’s even more tempting to back everything when you have a small collection.
@@tomlikeabomb6706 Thanks :).
Yeah I know how it works, but for me it's much easier and more clearly, when more than 80% crowdfunded boardgames don't come with my native language version, so I am not interested in it automatically 😁.
I made only one exception for Hexploreit:The Domain of Mirza Noctis, but I backed only core box.
I love theme of this game and for me it feels truly so close to real RPG game, not like all dungeoncrawlers and adventure boardgames. So I couldn't pass on it hehe.
This video helped me realize the minis expansion was just not for me, drop my pledge and use my already pledged money to get some of the cool add-ons. I like these breakdown videos, and I have found it super helpful as this is my first "big" game that I have backed. Thanks for the great content!
The Bird, I'd say, is a referencie to Athena's owl, being she the Greek goddess of Wisdom
I like thinking of it like that
I've been waiting for your video on this. Thanks, Alex!
Enjoy :)
Love me a good Jonathan Coulton reference
Hi Alex ! You didn't mention the campaign expansion deadly frontier as if it is a good add (like the personal files) or not. Currently I'm on the fence between just the core box or the core box+deadly frontier ...
Great video as always btw ;)
I've already paid for my late pledge, split shipment Core Box+ Personal Files expansion. Extra minis from expansion maybe look great, I was thinking about it since I missed Gamefound campaign. But finally I asked myself that how much it will impact on my playing and I know it's not what I need. Standees and 8 minis will be enough.
New campaign expansion probably I will buy in retail. There is so much content in Core Box big campaign, also with second wave will come second campaign and 5 scenarios/operations it will be enough for a long time.
I am still thinking about playmats.
Alex, when discussing all the add ones starting at 24:38”, you completely missed the $59 & $75 Deadly Frontier Campaign. What are your thoughts?
Thanks, Alex. I always appreciate your views on games and the fact that you consider them quite objectively. Now I have a better idea about how to tailor my pledge.
Great vid, im all in, just because but your argument not to is absolutely valid. This is always a crystal clear info session, thank you.
Glad you enjoyed :)
Great video. I love watching your descriptions of the decent into gaming purchasing madness. I find it to be cathartic and make me feel less alone. :)
I'm in at the Dreadnought All-In Sundrop currently. I kind of want the boxes and mats, but not the dice or pets. With 3 months on the pledge manager, I just may end up fully upgrading...
Llamas are often used as guard animals, don't let their 'fluffy' appearance fool you!
True! We had them on our farm to protect lambs from predators. Very intimidating animals (and also very sweet)
So looking for some clarification. If the pledge manager will be open for three more months. How will the game then ship in August 2021 like it states first wave will?
I think you skipped over the Deadly Frontier campaign in your Value & What to Back portion. What are your thoughts on that?
Same question here.
I think he answered by saying the core will be enough but I also would like to know what he thinks about it specifically.
Edit: I saw it answering more directly to the Mun Leong post.
I considered going all-in for a minute there, but then realized I'll have too many campaign games to play through when they show up and not nearly enough time to play through them all if I go crazy on expansions. I ended up dropping the Personnel Files and Galactic Almanac and upgrading to the sun-drop core game so I only had to pay a dollar more with shipping factored in. Today I've chosen to (more or less) power through my addiction and save some money.
"Code monkey have boring meeting
With boring manager, Rob"
Such a good song. Once again, you've proven to have impeccable taste.
Great video Alex. I went for the Commander pledge, I get great value just painting miniatures so that one is worth it to me.
My wife and I sat down and looked at the pledge manager last night. We decided to go with the section boxes and dice tower and skipped out on everything else. We actually liked the base P.E.T. better than the upgrades so we decided against adding those. As much as we loved the painted/sun dropped minis, the budget won out over the wow factor.
Side note: There is something rewarding about making purchase like this with your significant other. Or maybe it's just simple guilt reduction.
Great Video! I was having some issues with the additional costs involved. Gonna wait and see if Awaken realms are going to make changes again
This video just cost me $354 USD, and I don't regret it at all. Thanks, Alex!
I am comfortably holding steady with the sundrop core box. I have a few big games coming and I KNOW I won't get through the core game, much less expansions. And while I love minis (who doesn't!) I agree they don't seem essential here.
pledged all in gameplay in the beginning. going to go all in for those cosmetics except for sun drop. ill paint my own thank you very much.
30 minutes of Alex Pledge Manager ramblings summarized into: 'A Board Game Stockholm syndrome".
Absolutely :) I guess spending 30 minutes listening to someone talk about not even the campaign, but the pledge manager for the campaign... That definitely qualifies as stockham syndrome.
Your comment "Then you have a problem... Well, I have a problem!" was hilarious! :)
Lol cause it's true :)
Agree 100% with your analysis. I originally backed Core Box + Personal Files. I'm slightly tempted by the core box sundrop since it's only $10 and will likely greatly improve the miniature presentation of the core box characters. I'm also considering dropping Personal Files before finalizing unless AW states that it will be in Wave 1. Otherwise, it won't be available to begin gameplay and therefore not likely useful. I'd really like that content so hope they get that sorted soon!
Lastly, also want to know what the base section card box solution looks like. I doubt I'll spend $40 for the add-on boxes even though they look really nice but I'd more likely look for a cheaper DIY solution if not happy with the base game boxes.
Thanks for the update and analysis!
It opened, I went in and grabbed core box, deadly frontier, and personnel files, then submitted immediately. I don't need to wander around any more on there and inevitably end up with minis and add-ons. Gameplay drew me in and I need to stick with that.
Good choice :)
10:11 - We're not judging you either Alex :)
Alex’s singing is certainly never going to be copyright flagged 😬
:)
@@BoardGameCo It could be described as courageous.
Still don't know if I should add Deadly Frontier and Personal FIles to my core pledge :/
I completely agree with you on the pets. They put a couple of the pets with the wrong group/section. I will be doing exactly like you said with the pets. I will be using the bird/owl for the recon section and the Lima for science. I might use the monkey for security, because of trunk monkey. LOL. I haven’t decide yet though.
Great breakdown on the PM.
Two things to note:
1) The Dice Upgrade for those wondering replaces your dice you get versus it being a second set (lowers the cost of the 70+ dice) this is more informative for those unaware even though when you click through you will see it. I actually lean to the original dice versus the upgrade but this is purely cosmetic so I see how people may like either or.
2) The Section boxes in your prototype received from what I can tell watching the various videos was very much a placeholder as it was a different companies deck boxes being used (Gamegenic) to hold everything if I am recalling correctly. I believe comments in the FB group where saying one of the previous Awaken Realm Games the insert for base game was well worth getting upgrade as it was challenging to fit things properly in. The CON here is its been confirm by AR that the Section boxes will NOT FIT in the core box so for those wanting to maintain space this is a potential issue.
Other than that super stoked for the game I am all game play in + mini (minus pets), art book, and section boxes. 100% concur on the sleeves I can never recommend spending premium on sleeves but this is mainly due to there always being great deals even on high quality sleeves where you can save good money for other things for this game.
Llamas are used for animal security on farms.
Well that's fair :)
Late pledge is still open, I might just get the core pledge with sundrop. For 110$, it is pretty good value for money and I just don't have enough place to store more than a couple of boxes.
owl in greece and slavic mythology is symbol of wisdom and knowledge, so for me it gives sence that they go this way. my high school have owl with two cogs in claws in school logo almost 20years (focused on mechanical engineering in 60s-70s)
I went for the $99 pledge last year. I'm tempted by some of these new things but I can't imagine going all-in. Maybe I'll get one extra. But if I'm getting one I might as well get two or three... And therein lies the problem. :)
Get deadly frontiers
I just got the back stories and player mats. Went with one wave shipping. I thought the same thing about sleeves I have sleeves left over from Tainted Grail that I will use for this game or just use Sleeve Kings to save the money. I already have so much to play (TG, Gloomhaven, Etherfields, Dawn of Maddness) I can wait for this to get here.
I did the exact same thing :)
thank you for the video. this is my first ever pledge and appreciate the guidance
Coltrane!!! This is very tempting...the game looks quite cool.
I'm for sure getting more than what I need, but that's what I do with Awaken Realms.
This reminded me of your talk with Quackalope and if kickstarter is good for the space.
We use to go and buy a game from a game store for $100 tops and we'd enjoy it for months.
Now we have this buying addiction to get all the gameplay content just on the fear of missing out.
Thanks for the input. I picked up the core. Keep up the good work.
Great video. Have you reviewed Pendulum? Noticed it the background
Not yet sadly, need to.
First, the recon pet is clearly the Mr. Mime pokemon! At least, I can't see anything else. Second, the sleeves package offered comes with an insert to store cards, so it's not entirely a one to one comparison versus sleeve kings.
Liked the video all the same!
Choo choo!
I did Gameplay all-in with most of the add-ons. I skipped out on the Dice Tower (seems like an aethetics only upgrade) and I skipped sleeves, because I doubt I'll wear the cards down enough to need them...and I can get them later from Sleeve Kings.
I bumped from Dreadnaught to Ultimate. I love Sleeve Kings but there is a storage issue, AR is bad for insert space. That said something you may have missed: The fancy card/dice holders will fit within the core box in place of the original tubs! It was in the description or the update? I can't check at the moment.
They said on gamefound the cardholders don't fit in the box
Excellent video, asking the questions we all need to ask of ourselves, and giving a very good overview / reasoning for each. For my part, that decision re: deadly campaign is certainly easy to defer. I suspect completing the core content would be as far as I'd go, even though I used to think of myself as gameplay above all else. Still debating the crew cards, but if they are wave 2 I will defer the decision. I'm surprisingly tempted by the deck/section boxes, having loved the design of the Etherfields ones, but I agreed with your logic that they were impractical. these not only organise cards and dice well, but also fit in the core box [EDIT: It appears they don't - but instead have their own separate box a la Etherfields - that might save me some money!!]. That makes a big difference.
I agree that I strongly recommend the personnel files. That even if it’s part of wave 2, wave 2 will include additional campaigns for people to play through. I also go with the pets and the dice as very good add ons value wise.
So i had a hard time with this, because If im not mistaken the game-play all in group pledge is 249, but if you actually just do the gameplay all in yourself its actually only 174. Or am i wrong, does close encounters miniatures expansion come with some sort of gameplay content besides replacing standees with miniatures? I'm saving myself 70 dollars by not doing the minis unless im missing something.
Hey Alex, you skipped the Deadly Frontiers expansion in the recommendation. For me, I’m getting it, but thoughts?
Will hold value but goes under my final thoughts...extra content you don't need.
Alex, I agree with so much in this video. First, the bird pet absolutely belongs in Recon, the Recon logo is wings for crying out loud. Second, I completely endorse you mispronouncing Personal Files as Personnel Files because it really should be renamed that, and they definitely have to get this into wave 1. I'm excited about the changes to the ship book and think the changes to the prelude/tutorial sound like a good idea. But I didn't understand what he was describing when he was talking about the changes to the dice mechanics. I believe he said they wanted to encourage rolling larger dice pools more often, which sounds like a fun thing to encourage.
Mind you my first big game through Kickstarter games was with Dark Souls and I went all-in with that. I think it was 14 boxes all together and it was close to $400 with shipping. Maybe I'm jaded since I buy Zombicide GH and Invader and those were about $400+ before shipping.
$530 for a complete bundle in Vanguard doesn't even phase me anymore, that being said I need definitely have been more conservative about getting extra expansions for games going forward. I most likely will do a Commander's pledge sundrop and get a few things. I wonder if I can pay a regular Commander's pledge now and upgrade later since the pledge manager is open for 3 months. Those section deck boxes are great, I definitely want those. The pets not so much.
Great video Alex.
Alex, I have issues with this video, you skipped over the additional campaign box and the why should I either back it or not, and more importantly, you did not share the Coltrane song link. Other than that, thank you for your insights :-) One more aspect that you should consider analyzing: Is the really big box that will store your All-in pledge if you choose 1-wave shipping worth it? you know, because "it comes in a box" :-p
Thanks for info on personal cards, I shouldn't have gone for 2 wave shipping could have got them for $1 , wonder if they will offer me a credit if I change to single wave shipping.
I pledged for Core and Deadly Frontiers sundrop and Personal files as I am not into miniatures that much and want all gameplay content. Costs me $247.50 including two wave shipping.
I've added the complete painted miniatures option. I feel a little dirty. But in a good way. I think.
I am so tempted by the complete painted set. Managed to hold off so far........
@@rgoresjr I've justified it to myself saying I'll use the figure for any SF RPGs I play!
Well, I am lucky that I like to spent time to paint in my holidays on my own. Otherwise yeah. At the moment I only finished paying for shipping. :) I like the new dice. Check. But for everything else I am not sure. 12 days ago I opened my Descent boxes for saving the progress and I remembered I played this campain 12 years ago. So I put everything back in the box and was a little bit sad because: I still have contact to all my friends from 12 years ago but because of distance and family (kids) we will not finish the campain.
Yep, we always want to go all in on these deluxe experiences, but rarely do we use them.
I think the logic behind the science pet, is that it kinda looks like an owl, which was the sacred bird of the Greek Goddess Athena, which was the Goddess of Wisdom among other things.
Two things I didn't see or might have missed in this vid: a) on the sleeves conversation: sure, sleevekings would be cheaper, but there is a "also includes an insert to fit sleeved cards" line. Would that change the conversation? b) after personal files, you skipped discussing deadly frontier. Whats your comment on that?
Honestly, if you're willing to use Sleeve Kings, nothing is going to factor in to using better sleeves. The only reason anyone uses Sleeve Kings is the price, and thus price is the only factor.
Do I add the mini's or the 2 gameplay expansions to my base pledge? both would cost the same and I don't want to spend anymore. Decisions decisions
I know, tough choices right :)
Hey Alex. Thanks for the run-through! When I purchase games like this, I often end up painting them and selling them. If you had to guess, do you think the painted-model option through GameFound will make selling hand-painted models easier or more difficult? I generally paint to a “Tabletop+” standard, and I’m not sure what their paint jobs will look like. Thanks!
Sadly thats an area I don't know....never seen them myself.
Alex, I was wondering, cost-wise:
would it be better to hold off on getting the expansion until the wave 2 pledge manager opens up (giving us more time to see if this is a game that we will actually enjoy and make our way through), or go ahead and get a pledge level that has the expansion?
Ive done the math a couple of times and I don't think there's enough of a discount to dreadnaught and the all in to make it a must buy.
For reference I'm totally getting the section boxes and dice upgrades and I'm debating the minis so I'm not adverse to a higher pledge but I have WAYYYY too many games to play as is
I remember when $40 was an expensive board game purchase and $60 seemed almost absurd. $300 now? Well it's not out of consideration! Still worried I might up my $1 Nemesis pledge when the PM opens again...
Lol yep
Happy to realize I'm not yet quite at the stage where 500$ is "ok". :D Will still add a few tidbits but steering clear of that ultimate bundle pledge
Thanks for the reminder. I just got the $99 core pledge, with 2 wave shipping. While I am as much a mini painter, as a gamer. These mini's are not the type I prefer. I have a years + worth of GW stuff to paint and lots coming over the next 2 years. From MU:X-Men, Zombicide: Undead or Alive and Lasting Tails: Set 1 and 2.
Yep, it never really ends
What does 'Sundrop' represent. I have no idea what the difference is between a Base Pledge vs a Sundrop Base Pledge? Can anyone explain the difference
You're so damn right with everything you say 😁 spent way too much money yesterday on the Pledge Manager, all to make the game look prettier next year when it comes out... Sundrop, mats, pets... And of course a record 48$ shipping 🙇♂️ also got the personal files but don't see the sense in just getting it in the second wave...
My concern is how much of the add-ons will actually fit in the base game box. I wouldn't want any player mats or section boxes if I have to store them separately and they take up even more shelf space.. 😬
Llama’s are used to protect livestock. I wouldn’t say they’re as effective as donkeys but they will kill a coyote or a dog trying to get at sheep. So Llamas work perfectly as the security section.
12:30 We all have a problem. We all need help, especially our wallet. lol
Yep :)
I agree with you, so I'm in the core pledge on this. Debating if should add the deadly frontier. The section boxes are cool and a good price I think, but will they fit the core box organiser? Thanks for the great video as always.
I had the same thought about the personnel files, I almost removed them from the pledge manager because I didn't want to pay the extra for split shipping.
you're the only guy I slow the video down for vs. speeding up. Too much happening and feels cluttered. Still a good video.
Oh I so agree with the bird pet. The moment I saw this I thought, shouldn’t that be recon! That’s strange. How is that big bunny thing going to keep up with a jet pack?
Lol yep :)
I actually wanted to buy the pets expansion by itself since I have no interest in the game, but to hell with $30 shipping for a $25 product. Maybe retail will have it?
I skipped the sleeves, dice tower, posters and sparkle dice keeping me under 500 but i got everything sundropped so not far under. I honestly like the nice clear colors of the base dice and think the sparkle will make them harder to read. Hoping they do a video comparison though
After the amount of stuff I've still got coming in Waves from Awaken Realms (Etherfields and Lockdown) , and games I've yet to complete (Tainted Grail) I suspect I won't even touch this game til Wave 2 arrives.
“Messed up form of Boardgame Stockholm Syndrome” is the title of my autobiography.
Lol yep :)
We do have Llama antibodies for running westerns in the lab, so definitely Llama for science!
As a victim of BGSS (Board Game Stockholm Syndrome), I initially felt pretty happy with the price of the Ultimate All-In Pledge ... then I remembered that the painted miniatures cost extra. :-(
I'm really tempted to get the Painted Heroes set, but unfortunately, it doesn't ship until AFTER wave 2! What's the point in getting beautiful miniatures for a game I've finished? Are you planning on getting either the Painted Heroes or the Everything Painted?
I went with the gameplay options only. No extra miniatures for this one. Bare minimum to get the experience. Hope I’m doing the right thing XD
For your wallet, absolutely.
I did similarly. Core box, plus the Deadly Frontier campaign.
@@Dragonnox Me too. Actually I am grateful for you guys' comment which reminds me to take a careful look at the miniature expansion as well. Given how many boxes warhammer in my bedroom, I decided to skip those. To be honest, even if I have the time to paint those, I won't use them anyway--I never used any my mom 2nd miniatures. Also skipped the DF campaign since I think this will be shipped in 2nd wave and will be available in retail later and they usually have 80% discount.
Yeah...this was my first kick starter. I fell for FOMO and upgraded from the old "complete" ($200 something) to the All In Pleadge...hey it was only another $200-something, right? It's only one kickstarter...right?
Alex, sad to say but I did breathe a sigh of relief on that 500 dollar all in! LOL 😂😂 I need we need a intervention! xD
See! It's insanity right!
I went crazy with the pledge manager.
I changed to the new all in that’s high prices.
But those pets are cute.
The one question I have, it says the stretch goals box ships 2nd wave. Are the stretch goals juat extra senarios?
The Lost Fleet stretch goal was an entire 2nd big box campaign, which will ship in the 2nd wave.
The one issue I have with the dice...If you upgrade them, you DON'T get the normal dice. They are replaced with the upgraded dice. Me personally; Base game, Deadly Frontier and Personal Files. I really hope they are able to include the Personal Files in wave one.
I love the upgraded dice.
I'm going with Core Sundrop + Personnel files + Dice + Playmats. Will buy Deadly Frontier in Wave 2 if AR allows it.
Ohh this would be a great idea. I’m not sure about more content for now. Depends how much I like the game.
I backed core+expansion+personal files+ dice (the translucency of the base set and seeing symbols from other sides of the dice would drive me batty)+dice tower(it looks cool, and I don't have one).
However I went single wave shipping....I want the personal files to play with the game, so better for me if it arrives at all the same time, and there are plenty of other games to play while waiting.....just need to ignore all spoilers when wave 1 ships.
I just ordered the base game so hopefully will be here monday. Not too worried about expansions yet. I really want the close encounter miniatures tho. I hate cardboard standees!
Hmmm... I went in all gameplay stuff on TG and Etherfields. But neither has arrived yet. Language + one way shipping is killing me. So I played nothing at all... ;_;
Should I do it again and take the leap?
I wish there was more info on Sundrop before paying for that. There was concern about whether or not they would explore other colors.
They said on Facebook that they're still looking to do that
The thing that annoys me about the new all in pledge is that it's sundrop. I paint my minis, so it's a waste to get sundrop.
The dice tower looks weird too: it doesn't look like there are any baffles inside, so your dice will just drop right through. Obviously it is only a early visualisation, not finalise. So hopefully they'll fix that.
At a guess: the change to crew will likely speed things up a little as you make decisions as you go, instead of having to refer back to other sections to help make your decisions.
And for the pets: what about mounted security? The thing they currently have for recon looks more robotic so could work for the science section.
owl is symbol of wisdom. someone took weird decision, when it was added as science P.E.T.
I agree with Alex, the owl would be more suited as recon P.E.T.