In the captivating world of Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn series, certain individuals can wield magic by metabolizing metals. Some burn pewter to boost their physical capabilities, while others use brass to calm others’ emotions. However, the most remarkable figures are the Mistborn, who harness multiple metals to not only soar through the skies but also glimpse into the future.
Mistborn: The Deckbuilding Game cleverly adapts Sanderson’s well-crafted magical systems, inviting players to experience the exhilarating power of a Mistborn. Within this game, players aim to craft intricate combos by utilizing metals efficiently. The objective? Either successfully complete three missions, earning rewards as you progress, or outlast your rivals by reducing their health to zero.
As the game unfolds, characters grow increasingly formidable, gaining the ability to burn through more of the eight available metals each turn. These metals are essential for activating cards that let players advance in missions, attack fellow players, or refine their decks through strategic purchases and the elimination of weaker cards. Many cards come with bonus effects, activated by burning additional metals of a certain type, encouraging players to specialize. Alternatively, players might adopt a wider strategy by flaring metals, temporarily putting them on cooldown until they’re reactivated with a similar card on a later turn. In hindsight, I could have leveraged this tactic more during the early stages to enhance my deck.
A unique facet of the game lies in its innovative damage system. In games with three or four players, one participant becomes the target, the only individual open to attacks. It’s not solely a disadvantage, though, as the target can retaliate, damaging all opponents when they strike. Upon taking damage, the target can decide to pass the token to another player or retain it. This clever mechanic prevents players from ganging up against the leader but can be tactically retained by players with a more aggressive approach.
I’m eagerly looking forward to trying out various strategies, including the game’s co-op mode. This aspect is especially intriguing as it mirrors the series’ narrative, with Mistborn uniting to confront the tyrannical Lord Ruler. Moreover, the game seems primed for expansion, with opportunities to introduce additional characters and storylines from beyond the first book of the series.
