Our Verdict
If you love a quick cosmic monster showdown, Cthulhu Wars: Duel is your next tabletop match.
Highlights
- Compact and portable
- Clear influence mechanics
- Tactical combat in minutes
Keep in mind
- Requires full translation
- Not for huge tables
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Cthulhu Wars: Duel brings the epic battle against the Old Ones back to the table, but now in a compact and super accessible format. Instead of the giant plastic miniatures, the game uses cardboard standees that fit in your hand, letting you take it anywhere without taking up much space. The goal is simple: control the most areas on the board and use each Great Old One’s unique abilities to dominate the ruined Earth. You can play as Cthulhu himself, with his brute force and macabre influence, or as the Black Goat, a fertility goddess of chaos who uses more unpredictable tactics. Each turn, you spend action points to move units, attack, use special powers, or turn the battlefield to your advantage. The majority/influence mechanic makes each area a strategic battlefield, where having more units grants control and bonuses. Additionally, area movement speeds up play, while dice add excitement and unpredictability. The game is perfect for those who enjoy fast strategy games with horror and fantasy themes, and don’t want to spend hours setting up complex pieces. Playtime ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, ideal for a short but intense gaming night. If you love games that blend influence, combat, and a touch of cosmic horror, Cthulhu Wars: Duel is the right pick. And the best part: it fits in your pocket and on your table, without needing a huge space or bulky pieces.
Gallery
Box and component photos
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Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Petersen Games, ADC Blackfire Entertainment, asmodee, Delta Vision Publishing
Designer
Sandy Petersen
Artist
Damien Mammoliti, Graey Erb, Richard Luong
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
1,647owners
195wishlist
35want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How long does a typical game last?
Between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on player experience.
What are the table space requirements?
It occupies far less space than the original, making it playable on smaller tables.
Do I need a translator to play?
Yes, the Portuguese version requires a full translation of the rules and components.
Is it only for two players?
Yes, it’s specifically designed for two-player matches.
What special abilities do the characters have?
Cthulhu uses influence power and area attacks; the Black Goat has control and surprise tactics.
Are the components easy to assemble?
Yes, the cardboard standees are simple and don’t require complex setup.
Does the game rely on any technology?
No, but digital versions are available on TableTop Simulator and Tabletopia.
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