Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
If you enjoy tactical miniatures combat with a sci-fi twist, DreadBall is your arena! Perfect for intense, strategy-filled duels.
Highlights
- Exciting tactical duels
- Awesome miniatures
- Engaging futuristic theme
- Easy to learn
- Deep strategic challenge
Keep in mind
- Dice dependency
- 2 players only
- Mastery learning curve
Rules manual not indexed yet
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Get ready to hit the field in DreadBall: The Futuristic Sports Game, an electrifying miniatures game that throws you into the heart of a breathtaking futuristic sport! Created by Jake Thornton and brought to life by Mantic Games, this is a tactical and fun game that combines speed and ferocity in one package. You and a friend take on the role of coaches, each leading a team of incredible miniatures on a super stylish sci-fi playing field. The objective is simple: outmaneuver your opponent and score points, but the execution is where the magic happens.
Despite being easy to pick up, DreadBall offers a deep strategic challenge. Every play needs to be well thought out, and counter-attacks heavily depend on the intelligent positioning of your miniatures and, of course, a bit of luck with the dice. It's that perfect blend of planning and excitement that only a good dice game can bring. With a robust 84-page rulebook and the promise of future expansions with new teams and mechanics, DreadBall is the first in a series that promises to further expand this universe of futuristic sports. If you enjoy miniatures, science fiction, and a good tactical challenge, this game is a perfect fit!
Despite being easy to pick up, DreadBall offers a deep strategic challenge. Every play needs to be well thought out, and counter-attacks heavily depend on the intelligent positioning of your miniatures and, of course, a bit of luck with the dice. It's that perfect blend of planning and excitement that only a good dice game can bring. With a robust 84-page rulebook and the promise of future expansions with new teams and mechanics, DreadBall is the first in a series that promises to further expand this universe of futuristic sports. If you enjoy miniatures, science fiction, and a good tactical challenge, this game is a perfect fit!
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
In English
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DreadBall Extended Gameplay Video!
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DreadBall Basic Gameplay Video
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Mounting custom designed Dreadball pitch on cardboard
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How To Play DreadBall - Part One: The Board
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How To Play DreadBall - Part Five: Player Statlines
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How To Play DreadBall - Part Seven: Tests (Stealing The Ball)
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How To Play DreadBall - Part Six: Tests (Slam & Armour Check)
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How To Play DreadBall - Part Two: The Players
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How To Play DreadBall - Part Eight: Tests (Throwing The Ball)
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How To Play DreadBall - Part Four: Player Movement
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How To Play DreadBall - Part Three: Basic Mechanics
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How To Play DreadBall - Part Nine: Tests (Standing Up & Evade)
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
Heidelberger Spieleverlag, Mantic Games
Designer
Jake Thornton
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
1,816owners
214wishlist
35want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How many players can play DreadBall?
DreadBall is an exclusive 2-player game, perfect for strategic one-on-one duels.
What is the average game length?
A game of DreadBall typically lasts between 60 to 90 minutes, depending on players' familiarity with the rules and the depth of their strategies.
Is DreadBall a complex game?
It's considered a medium-complexity game (BGG weight of 2.87/5). The basic rules are easy to learn, but mastering tactical positioning and team ability interactions requires a bit more dedication.
Is there a lot of luck involved in the game?
Yes, dice rolling is a central mechanic, so there's an element of luck that can influence outcomes, but strategy and intelligent positioning are crucial to mitigate this.
Do I need expansions to enjoy the game?
No, the base game already offers a complete and fun experience. Expansions add new teams and mechanics, expanding options and replayability for those looking for more.
What is the language dependency level?
The language dependency is moderate. The rulebook is extensive, and while there isn't much text on the game cards, having a translation or familiarity with English helps a lot.
Who is DreadBall recommended for?
It's highly recommended for fans of miniatures games, science fiction, and those who enjoy tactical games with direct duels between two players. If you like Blood Bowl but want something faster and more futuristic, you'll love this!
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