Malifaux (Second Edition)

Wyrd Games · Board game · 2013
9.0 Ludopedia 8.0 BGG 2 · best 2 90–120 min Weight 3.7/5
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9.0 rating Ludopedia
8.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

An epic miniature duel where you manipulate fate itself to win!

Highlights
  • Deep tactical combat
  • Highly charismatic characters
  • Amazing card mechanics
  • Stunning steampunk/horror aesthetic
Keep in mind
  • Steep learning curve
  • Language dependency (English)
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready to dive into the dark and fascinating world of Malifaux, where fate is something you can literally manipulate! This is a 32mm miniature game focused entirely on character-driven storytelling. Instead of just commanding anonymous armies, you lead a 'Crew' composed of iconic figures, from powerful Masters to loyal Agents and Henchmen. The goal? Control the precious Soulstones, the resource that dictates who truly runs the gears of this world.

The real standout here is how your character dictates the pace of the game. Each Master possesses unique abilities and can even transform into a devastating Avatar to turn the tide. To resolve conflicts, forget about just common dice; here, your 'Fate Deck' is your primary tool. You'll have to decide the exact moment to 'Cheat Fate,' ensuring your attacks and spells work exactly as you planned.

Strategy runs deep: you can follow a main 'Strategy' to secure victory or adopt quicker, alternative 'Schemes' to achieve your goals. With action point mechanics and precise movement, Malifaux demands a shrewd leader who knows how to manage their hand of cards and resources effectively. It's a high-tension game where every move and every card played can completely change the course of your story in the Malifaux underworld. If you love miniatures, horror/steampunk themes, and tactical combat where destiny is in your hands (literally!), this is the game for you!

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

5 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 BEST

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Players: Two-Player Only Games Players: Wargames with Rules Supporting Only Two Players Theme: Steampunk
Publisher Wyrd Games
Designer Aaron Darland, Dan Weber, David Hanold, Eric Johns, Justin Gibbs, Mack Martin, Matt Anderson, Nathan Caroland, Redd Cohen

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

768owners
108wishlist
9want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
Is the game hard to learn?
Yes, it's an expert-level game. The card manipulation and movement mechanics require constant attention.
Can I play with more than 2 players?
The standard version is focused on 2-player duels, ideal for direct confrontations.
Do I need to paint the miniatures?
It's not mandatory, but the game is designed to be collected and painted, which greatly enhances the experience.
How long does a game last?
Usually between 90 to 120 minutes, depending on the complexity of the chosen schemes.
Is the game available in Portuguese?
No, the game is primarily in English, requiring attention to technical terms and cards.

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