Exceed: Red Horizon – Reese, Heidi, Nehtali, and Vincent

Level 99 Games · Board game · 2016
— Ludopedia 7.7 BGG 2 · best 2 10–20 min Weight 2.3/5
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— rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Exceed is the definitive 'fighting game' experience in card format, delivering surprising tactical depth in super-fast matches. It's perfect for those who love intense duels where positioning and hand management define the winner. You'll feel the energy of classic arcades in every match, with characters that have truly distinct playstyles. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking for a two-player game that doesn't take up space in your bag or your schedule.

Highlights
  • Fast and visceral tactical combat
  • Characters with very distinct styles
  • Highly portable and compact
  • Modular system with high replayability
Keep in mind
  • Strictly for two players only
  • Learning curve requires practice
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About the game

What you do in a play session

If you love the adrenaline of a fighting game but want something portable that doesn't take all afternoon, Exceed: Red Horizon is your new obsession. This game is an intense combat system designed specifically for two players, where every card in your hand is a crucial decision between attacking, defending, or strategically positioning yourself on the battlefield. Forget those complex fighting games that require an encyclopedia of rules; here, the learning curve is super friendly, allowing you to jump into the fray in minutes.

In this specific box, you get four iconic fighters from the Red Horizon universe: Reese, Heidi, Nehtali, and Vincent. Each one brings a completely distinct playstyle, forcing you to adapt your strategy for every match. The 'Exceed' system shines by simulating the feel of a classic video game, where hand management is the key to victory. You aren't just playing cards; you are reading your opponent, anticipating moves, and trying to find that perfect opening to land the final blow.

What makes this series so special is its modularity. As part of the Exceed line, you can mix these characters with fighters from other boxes, creating epic and unpredictable matchups. Match time is short, usually between 10 and 20 minutes, which is perfect for a 'best of three' or for when you want to play something quick that still demands plenty of tactical thinking and reflexes. It's a game that rewards deck knowledge and reading your opponent, keeping the tension high from start to finish. If you enjoy visceral duels where every turn can flip the game, this system was tailor-made for you.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

3 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 BEST

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Game: Exceed Fighting System Players: Two-Player Only Games
Publisher Level 99 Games
Designer D. Brad Talton, Jr.

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

590owners
58wishlist
7want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
Is the game hard to learn?
Not at all! The rules are quite intuitive, focusing on how cards interact and how you position yourself on the board.
Can I play with more than two people?
No, the Exceed system is specifically designed for 1v1 duels. It's a game focused on direct confrontation.
How long does a match last?
It's very fast! Usually between 10 and 20 minutes, perfect for playing several matches in a row.
Do I need other boxes to play?
Not at all. This box is self-contained and comes with everything you need to start fighting.
Can I mix these characters with other sets?
Absolutely! The entire Exceed system is cross-compatible, so you can pit the fighters from this box against characters from other sets.
Is the game too luck-dependent?
There is the luck of the draw, but the game is much more about how you manage your hand and read what your opponent is planning.

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