Court of the Dead: Mourners Call

Project Raygun, The Op Games · Board game · 2019
2–5 · best 4 90 min Weight 2.9/5
7.3 rating Ludopedia
7.6 rating BGG
Buy
7.3 rating Ludopedia
7.6 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're into strategic games with tons of interaction, awesome miniatures, and a dark, immersive theme, Court of the Dead might just be your next obsession!

Highlights
  • Stunning, detailed miniatures
  • Dark, immersive theme
  • High player interaction
  • Deep strategy, tense decisions
  • Well-integrated mechanics
Keep in mind
  • Initial learning curve
  • Can have intense 'take that'
  • Game length can be long
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
In Court of the Dead: Mourners Call, you're already in the Underworld, where death isn't the end, but the beginning of a new mission! The ceaseless war between Heaven and Hell threatens to destroy everything, and it's up to you and your fellow 'Mourners' – allies of Death – to unite the factions of Bone, Flesh, and Spirit to end this cosmic conflict. The goal is simple: gather enough power to challenge the celestials and restore balance to the universe. But hold on, it's not just about the greater good! Each Mourner has their own ulterior motives and personal ambitions. You need to diplomatically maneuver and influence the strongholds and guilds of the factions to achieve your individual goals, while still contributing to the collective cause. The player who best balances these interests, earning Death's favor, will be recognized among the Underworld's elite.

But beware, the power within mortal souls, known as Etherea, is a double-edged sword. Using it carelessly risks invoking the dreaded Dreadsgrip, a destructive force that consumes everything in its path, including its former master. Failing to satiate the celestials' war needs or triggering the Dreadsgrip can have dire consequences for all. Do you have the cunning and strength to achieve your own ambitions while also being the champion who unites the Underworld?
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST
5 REC
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Game details

Families

Components: Miniatures Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Misc: LongPack Games Misc: Watch It Played How To Videos
Publisher Project Raygun, The Op Games
Designer Patrick Marino
Artist Alex Horley, Alex Pascenko, Sean Andrew "Muttonhead" Murray, Steve Argyle, Walter O'Neal
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the ideal player count for Court of the Dead?
Court of the Dead: Mourners Call can be played by 2 to 5 people. While it works well at all counts, many consider 3 or 4 players to offer the best experience, with more interaction and competition for areas.
How complex is the game? Is it easy to learn?
With a BGG weight of 2.93, Court of the Dead is considered a medium-heavy (expert) complexity game. It features many mechanics and an initial learning curve. It's not the easiest game for beginners, but it rewards those who dedicate themselves to understanding its nuances.
How long does a game typically last?
A game of Court of the Dead usually takes 90 to 120 minutes. It's a game that requires planning and strategic decisions, so be prepared for a longer session, especially with more players.
Are the components good quality? Are the miniatures important?
Yes, the components are one of its great strengths! The miniatures are high-quality and very detailed, essential for immersing in the game's dark and fantastic theme. They are not just aesthetic but represent your influence on the board.
Is there a lot of player interaction in the game?
Absolutely! Interaction is a strong point. You'll constantly be vying for influence in areas, bidding in auctions, and even using 'Take That' cards to hinder your opponents. It's a competitive game with plenty of indirect confrontation.
Who is Court of the Dead recommended for?
It's highly recommended for players who love eurogames with a strong thematic twist, who don't mind direct interaction, and who appreciate deep strategies with multiple scoring paths. Fans of dark universes and miniatures will love it!
Are expansions necessary for the full experience?
The base game already offers a rich and complete experience with plenty of replayability. Expansions usually add more content, characters, or mechanics, but they are not essential to enjoy the main game.