Making Monsters

Sky Lion Games LLC, Astoria Games · Board game · 2026
2–4 · best 4 45–60 min Weight 2.0/5
rating Ludopedia
7.8 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
7.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

If you enjoy a good dose of risk, quick decisions, and a mad scientist theme with a touch of horror and humor, Making Monsters is your game! It's a title that makes you think fast and hope luck is on your side.

Highlights
  • Exciting bag building
  • Fast simultaneous decisions
  • Fun, macabre theme
  • Engaging risk management
Keep in mind
  • Can get chaotic
  • Luck plays a role
  • Requires constant attention
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get your test tubes ready and fire up the generators! In Making Monsters, you and your friends become mad scientists competing at the Monster Maker Science Fair. The goal? To create the most bizarre and impressive abominations to earn fame and prestige. Each round, the tension mounts: you secretly decide how many monster parts to order, trying to guess what your rivals are planning. Then, the real fun begins with the bag-building and "push your luck" mechanic: everyone draws parts simultaneously, assembling their creations before everything falls apart. Be careful not to be too conservative and fall behind, but risking too much might turn your monster into scrap before it even comes to life! Completed monsters not only earn points but also unlock powerful upgrades and new strategic options, expanding your lab and possibilities. Rely on the help of your trusty robotic assistant, Lester, and use your wits to manipulate the fair in your favor. Finally, the Grand Finale tests your skills: choose your five favorite monsters and try to assemble them with your remaining resources. It's a final test of strategy, memory, and sheer audacity to see who builds the most epic monster squad before the fair closes. Perfect for those who enjoy a fast-paced game with risky decisions and a fun, slightly macabre theme.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–4 players
2 OK
3 BEST
4 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Admin: Upcoming Releases Characters: Frankenstein Components: Turntable Gameboards Creatures: Monsters Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Theme: Mad Science / Mad Scientist
Publisher Sky Lion Games LLC, Astoria Games
Designer David Gordon (I), Jonathan Gilmour-Long
Artist Brett Bean, Jordi Planellas

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
What is the average playtime for Making Monsters?
A game typically lasts between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on the player count and how quickly everyone makes their decisions.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 2 to 4 players, offering a good experience across all player counts.
Is the game very complicated to learn?
With a medium weight of 2/5 on the BGG scale, Making Monsters is accessible. The core rules are easy to grasp, but mastering the strategies takes time.
What is the main focus of the game?
The game focuses on building monsters using a "push your luck" bag-building mechanic, making simultaneous decisions, and collecting sets of parts to score points.
Who is Making Monsters most recommended for?
It's ideal for those who enjoy fast-paced games, a bit of controlled chaos, risky decisions, and a fun theme blending science fiction, horror, and humor.
Is there a lot of player interaction?
Interaction is indirect, focused on outwitting opponents in the race for monster parts and anticipating their actions during simultaneous selection.
Does the game rely heavily on luck?
The "push your luck" mechanic is central, so luck plays a significant role. However, strategy in building your bag and managing risk is crucial for long-term success.

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