Blood Rage

Cool Mini Or Not, Arclight Games, asmodee · Board game · 2015
2–4 · best 4 60–90 min Weight 2.9/5
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.9 rating BGG
How to Play Buy · from US$ 53.73
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.9 rating BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

If you're looking for a thematic area-control game with satisfying combat and strategic drafting, Blood Rage will have you pillaging and battling your way to Valhalla with glee. It's a fantastic blend of card drafting and miniature-driven conflict.

Highlights
  • Engaging card drafting for strategic depth
  • Thematic Viking combat and area control
  • Beautiful miniatures enhance immersion
  • Multiple paths to glory and victory
  • Quick, impactful player turns
Keep in mind
  • Direct conflict might not suit everyone
  • Luck of the draw can impact strategy
  • Initial learning curve for new players
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our complete step-by-step rules guide.
Access Rules Guide

About the game

What you do in a play session

In Blood Rage, Ragnarök has arrived, and the world is on its last breath! As a Viking clan, your mission is to secure a place in Valhalla alongside Odin, seeking glory through epic battles, pillaging, and heroic deeds. Each player commands their warriors, leader, and ships, navigating a burning Midgard to leave their mark before final destruction consumes it. The game is divided into three Ages, and at the beginning of each, you will draft 'Gods' Gifts' cards. These cards are the backbone of your strategy, offering everything from clan upgrades and combat abilities to the aid of legendary creatures from Norse mythology. They can also bring various quests, such as dominating specific provinces or sending many of your Vikings to Valhalla gloriously. The cards are often aligned with Norse gods, suggesting different approaches: Thor rewards victory in battle, Heimdall offers foresight, Tyr strengthens your warriors, and Loki, the trickster, can even reward you for losing battles or punish the winner. The draft phase is crucial for planning your strategy, but adaptability is key, as opponents' actions can change everything. Battles are not just about brute force; secret cards can turn the tide, and observing your rivals' allegiances can give you an edge. Sometimes, a strategic defeat can yield more glory than a victory! The only way to lose in Blood Rage is to shy away from battle and a glorious death.

Expansions

Published additional content

10 items

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

12 videos

Rules manual

Official PDF file

Rules manual — Blood Rage English · PDF
Download Manual

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST

Where to Buy

Prices monitored daily

Finding best prices...

Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Animals: Wild boar Components: Control Boards Components: Dynamic Event Boards Components: Map (Continental / National scale) Components: Miniatures Misc: DIZED Tutorial
Publisher Cool Mini Or Not, Arclight Games, asmodee, Asterion Press, BoardM Factory, CMON Global Limited
Designer Eric M. Lang
Artist Adrian Smith, Henning Ludvigsen, Mike McVey, Thierry Masson

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

62,323owners
14,516wishlist
1,407want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How many players does Blood Rage support and what's the playtime?
Blood Rage is ideal for 2 to 4 players, and a game typically lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. That's plenty of time for lots of pillaging and glory!
What is the complexity level of Blood Rage?
With a BGG weight of 2.882/5, Blood Rage is considered a medium-complexity game. It has accessible rules but offers strategic depth for those who enjoy planning their moves.
Do I need to know Norse mythology to play?
Not at all! The game is set in Norse mythology, but you don't need to be an expert to have fun. The theme is well-integrated and helps create the atmosphere, but the enjoyment comes from the mechanics and player interaction.
Are the components good quality?
Absolutely! Blood Rage is renowned for its detailed miniatures and stunning artwork. The 46 pre-assembled miniatures, including legendary monsters, are a highlight and elevate the game's visual experience.
Does Blood Rage have a lot of player interaction?
Yes, and how! Interaction is constant, from card drafting, where you try to get what you need and deny opponents, to direct battles for province control. It's a very confrontational game.
What is the main objective of the game?
The objective is simple: accumulate as much Glory as possible before Ragnarök consumes Midgard. You can achieve this by pillaging, winning battles, completing quests, or even dying gloriously!

Other Games You'll Like

Based on mechanics and theme

8 games