Hemloch: Midnight Edition

Small Box Games · Board game · 2015
2 · best 2 30 min Weight 2.3/5
rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Hemloch: Midnight Edition is the perfect pick for fans of quick, visually striking strategic duels.

Highlights
  • Dynamic territory control
  • Unique card art
  • 30‑minute gameplay
  • Premium linen box edition
  • Strategic variety
Keep in mind
  • Requires translation
  • Two‑player only
  • Moderate complexity
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Hemloch: Midnight Edition brings back the intriguing city of Hemloch, where nights last decades and the Great Houses battle for control of four districts over an eight‑night cycle. The game lasts about 30 minutes and is designed exclusively for two players who clash in a battle of influence and territorial control. Each match starts with blank district cards; as nights progress, players use minion cards to capture areas, earning domination points. The Area Majority / Influence mechanic requires constant assessment of who holds the most minions in each district, while Hand Management forces every card decision—keep, play, or discard—to potentially swing the night. The Midnight Edition, launched as part of a Kickstarter campaign, comes with premium components: 90 cards, 30 house markers, a festival marker, a full‑color rulebook, a black linen box with gold foil, and a Hemloch sticker. Additionally, district cards are double‑sided, featuring light and dark sides, and there are eight alternate day/night cards and Dark Adornment cards, expanding strategic variety. The edition also introduces variants like Familiars and Masqueraders, adding layers of complexity. While the mechanics are approachable, the game demands careful attention to influence rules and may require card translation for non‑English speakers. Overall, Hemloch: Midnight Edition blends an engaging fantasy theme, influence and hand‑management mechanics, and high‑quality presentation, making it a solid pick for those seeking a fast, elegant strategic duel.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
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Game details

Categories

Families

Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Players: Two-Player Only Games
Publisher Small Box Games
Designer John Clowdus
Artist JJ Ariosa, Justin Hernandez, Sandro Rybak
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a game last?
A typical game lasts about 30 minutes.
How many players can play?
The game is designed exclusively for two players.
Is the game moderately difficult?
Yes, the influence mechanic requires attention but is not overly complex.
What components are included?
90 cards, 30 house markers, 1 festival marker, full‑color rulebook, black linen box with gold foil, and a Hemloch sticker.
Do I need to translate cards?
Yes, there is a moderate language dependency; using a translation sheet or translated cards is recommended.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, but understanding the influence and territorial control rules is important.
Are there variants or expansions?
Yes, the edition includes variants such as Familiars and Masqueraders, plus Dark Adornment cards.