Dark Tower

Milton Bradley · Board game · 1981
— Ludopedia 6.9 BGG 1–4 · best 4 Solo 90 min Weight 1.8/5
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— rating Ludopedia
6.9 rating BGG
Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

If you enjoy retro adventure games with an electronic twist that was pure magic in the 80s, Dark Tower is a relic worth experiencing!

Highlights
  • Iconic electronic component
  • Epic adventure experience
  • Exploration and perils
  • Pure 80s nostalgia
Keep in mind
  • Slightly dated rules
  • Reliance on electronic component
  • Simple production by today's standards
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Embark on an epic quest in Dark Tower, a 1981 classic that transports you to a fantasy realm to reclaim a magical scepter from a tyrannical king. To succeed, you and your friends (or go solo!) will explore a circular board divided into four kingdoms, searching for the three keys needed to unlock the gate of the dreaded Dark Tower. But beware, the journey is fraught with peril! You'll face roving brigands, fierce dragons, and must manage resources like food for your warriors, lest hunger become your downfall. Luck also plays a crucial role: will you push your luck for supplies at bazaars or explore ruins for treasures? The electronic tower's AI dictates the pace, controlling battles, events, and even playing musical cues for significant moments. It's a race against time and the realm's dangers to assemble an army and lay siege to the tower, aiming for glorious victory or bitter defeat. Dark Tower was a technological marvel for its time, with its internal computer innovatively managing all gameplay, a feature that still fascinates today despite its age.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

1–4 players
1 OK
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Components: 3-Dimensional (3D) Components: Miniatures Creatures: Dragons Theme: Wizards
Publisher Milton Bradley
Designer Alan Coleman, Roger Burten, Vincent A. A. J. Erato
Artist Bob Pepper

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

2,018owners
538wishlist
153want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How many players can participate in a game of Dark Tower?
Dark Tower can be played by 1 to 4 players, so you can adventure solo or call your friends to danger!
How long does a game typically last?
Prepare for a journey of about 90 minutes. It's enough time for a good adventure without getting too tiring.
Is the game very complicated to learn?
The average weight on BGG is 1.78, indicating it's quite accessible. The rules are straightforward, focusing on adventure and luck.
What makes Dark Tower special?
The main highlight is the electronic tower that manages the game! It controls battles, events, and even plays music, which was highly innovative for 1981.
Do I need prior board game knowledge to play?
Not necessarily! Dark Tower is a great entry point for those wanting a taste of classic adventure games with a technological twist.
Is this a game for children?
With a 90-minute playtime and a fantasy theme involving battles, it's best suited for players aged 10-12 and up, depending on maturity.

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