Mistborn: House War

Crafty Games · Board game · 2017
3–5 · best 4 60–120 min Weight 2.8/5
rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Fans of negotiation and the Mistborn universe will love this game packed with intrigue and tough choices.

Highlights
  • Tense negotiation and epic betrayals
  • Immersive Cosmere theme
  • Asymmetric house powers
Keep in mind
  • High language dependency
  • Can be harsh on pacifists
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
In Mistborn: House War, you take on the role of one of the Great Houses of Luthadel in Brandon Sanderson’s dark and intriguing universe. The game blends negotiation, betrayal, and resource management as you tackle threats to the Final Empire—from skaa uprisings to koloss attacks. Each house has unique abilities and produces different resources, like food, money, or even precious atium. The twist? While competing for the Lord Ruler’s favor, you must also cooperate to solve problems before they escalate into full-blown crises. But beware: helping too much might leave you behind in the power struggle. The game ends in two ways: either the rebellion erupts (and the Lord Ruler’s least favorite wins), or you defeat Vin (and the most favored takes the crown). Expect fragile alliances, backstabbing, and tough choices!
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
3 REC
4 BEST
5 REC
WHERE TO BUY
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Game details

Families

Authors: Brandon Sanderson Components: Miniatures Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Setting: The Cosmere
Publisher Crafty Games
Designer Kevin Wilson
Artist Abigail Platter, Anna Kay, Artur Treffner, Djamila Knopf, Emanuele Desiati, Georgi Minkov, Jack Hoyle, Júlio Rocha, Lee Moyer, Marko Radulovic, Martin Sickree, Michele Giorgi, Miranda Meeks, Oliver Specht, Thomas Lishman, W. T. Arnold, Wacław Wysocki
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players are ideal?
3-5 players. With 5, negotiations get more chaotic and fun.
Do I need to know the books to play?
No, but fans will recognize characters and events from the first novel.
Is the game too complex?
Medium weight (2.7/5 on BGG). Negotiation rules are intuitive, but strategy has depth.
Does it include miniatures?
Yes! Features koloss miniatures and other universe-themed elements.
Average playtime?
1.5 to 2 hours, depending on player count and negotiation speed.
Is it fully competitive or cooperative?
Semi-cooperative: you must solve problems together, but only one wins.