Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
If you love retro horror and a game that never plays the same twice, Nightmare IV hits the spot.
Highlights
- Retro horror atmosphere
- Fast, chaotic mechanics
- Great for parties
Keep in mind
- Requires videocassette component
- Light learning curve
Rules manual not indexed yet
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Nightmare IV arrives as the darkest sequel in the line that began with the classic Video Board Game Nightmare. The setting centers on the legendary Countess Elizabeth Bathory, the infamous Hungarian vampire who, according to legend, bathed in the blood of hundreds of young women to preserve her youth. Now locked in her own castle, she tries to escape death and turn the players into her next victims. The goal is simple: survive the limited time while avoiding being captured by the Countess. Each round starts with drawing a Time or Fate card, which can speed up or slow down the game, plus new Black Rose cards that introduce treacherous effects. The core mechanics remain dice rolling and the classic "roll/spin and move," determining how many spaces each player advances on the video‑cassette board. Along the way, participants may find items, traps, or challenges that demand quick decisions. The game includes an interactive Book of Rules that, when opened, reveals extra instructions and thematic tips, reinforcing the horror atmosphere. As with all editions of the series, the experience varies each play – the mix of cards, dice throws, and the Countess's unpredictability ensures no two games are alike. The retro video‑cassette component, inherited from the original, adds nostalgic charm and serves as a holder for the cards, strengthening the 90s horror vibe. In about 60 minutes, 3 to 6 players will feel their hearts race, scream, and maybe discover if they can escape Bathory's clutches. It’s a title that blends nostalgia, suspense, and chaotic fun, perfect for party nights or Halloween‑themed sessions.
Gallery
Box and component photos
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Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
Best player count
BGG community vote
3
REC
4
REC
5
BEST
6
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Borras Plana S.A., Chieftain Products, A Couple 'A Cowboys, Schmidt Spiele, Spear's Games
Designer
Phillip Tanner
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
508owners
64wishlist
24want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How many players can join?
3 to 6 players.
What is the playing time?
Approximately 60 minutes, varying with the cards drawn.
How complex is the game?
Light to moderate; rules are straightforward, but card and dice interactions add depth.
What components are included?
A videocassette board, dice, Time, Fate and Black Rose cards, an interactive Rule Book, and player tokens.
Who is this game for?
Horror enthusiasts, party gamers, and anyone who loves a 90s retro vibe.
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