Chaos in the Old World

Fantasy Flight Games, Edge Entertainment, Galakta · Board game · 2009
3–4 · best 4 60–120 min Weight 3.2/5
8.1 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
8.1 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy asymmetric games with tons of interaction and a dark theme, Chaos in the Old World is a feast for spreading chaos!

Highlights
  • High-level asymmetric experience
  • Gods with unique powers
  • Intense player interaction
  • Immersive Warhammer Fantasy theme
  • Multiple paths to victory
Keep in mind
  • Best with 4 players
  • Significant language dependency
  • Can be a bit long
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our complete step-by-step rules guide.
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About the game
In Chaos in the Old World, you and your friends take on the roles of Chaos gods, each with their own unique goals and methods to corrupt and dominate the Old World. Forget being the good guy; here, the idea is to spread misery and destruction as efficiently as possible! The game unfolds on a map full of regions that you need to influence and corrupt. Each of the four gods – Khorne, the Blood God, focused on combat; Nurgle, the Plaguelord, who revels in disease and decay; Tzeentch, the Changer of Ways, master of manipulation; and Slaanesh, the Prince of Pleasure and Pain, who seduces and corrupts – has a completely unique playstyle, with exclusive cards and abilities. This means that Khorne's strategy, which seeks direct combat, will be very different from Tzeentch's, who prefers intrigue and subtle control. Each turn, you spend action points to move your cultists and demons, corrupt lands, wage battles against rival gods' followers, and even against the desperate inhabitants of the Old World trying to banish you. There are three paths to victory, and you can even upgrade your followers and summon greater demons to wreak even more havoc. Prepare for an intense asymmetric struggle, where player interaction is constant and every decision can change the fate of the world.
Rules videos

In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — Chaos in the Old World English · PDF
Download PDF
BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 REC
4 BEST
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Game details

Families

Components: Control Boards Components: Miniatures Digital Implementations: VASSAL Players: Games with expansions that change player count Setting: Warhammer Fantasy Board Games Theme: Villainy
Publisher Fantasy Flight Games, Edge Entertainment, Galakta, Heidelberger Spieleverlag, Hobby Japan, Nexus Editrice
Designer Eric M. Lang
Artist Andrew Navaro, Brian Schomburg, Kevin Childress, Tim Arney-O'Neil, WiL Springer
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play Chaos in the Old World?
The game is designed for 3 to 4 players, and the experience is generally considered best with 4, as all gods are in play and the asymmetry shines brightest.
What is the average game length?
A game of Chaos in the Old World can last between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on players' familiarity with the rules and the strategies employed.
Is it a complex game to learn?
It has a medium-heavy weight (3.2/5 on BGG), which means there's a learning curve. The basic rules are accessible, but mastering the strategies and unique abilities of each god takes time and dedication.
What are the main components of the game?
Besides the board and cards, the game comes with detailed miniatures representing each god's cultists and demons, along with custom tokens and dice. Component quality is a highlight!
Who is Chaos in the Old World recommended for?
It's highly recommended for those looking for an asymmetric strategy game with a lot of direct interaction, area control, and a strong dark fantasy (Warhammer) theme. If you enjoy being the villain and creating chaos, this is your game!
Does it require a lot of text to play?
Yes, the game has extensive language dependency, especially on the ability and event cards. Having a translation or players fluent in English is almost essential for a complete experience.