Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS
If you enjoy Paupers' Ladder and want to add a Halloween touch and more player interaction with new characters, this expansion is a must-have!
Highlights
- Thematic and unique characters
- More player interaction
- Masterfully expands base game
- Halloween visuals and theme
Keep in mind
- Expansion, requires base game
- Limited physical production
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Get ready for an extra dose of mischief and horror with "The Bodachs of Brighthelm," a sinister expansion for the already engaging "Paupers' Ladder"! As the full moon illuminates the city, dark and malevolent creatures emerge from their lairs for a power grab. These "bodachs" aren't your average bogeymen; they are masters at enslaving other creatures to serve as their familiars and love to play tricks (or offer treats... or not!) on rival players. The expansion introduces 4 new playable characters that replace the original "Paupers," each with their own diabolical tactics to climb the hierarchy of this festering pile. The mechanics of "Paupers' Ladder" are enhanced with new layers of strategy, where area movement, deck/bag building, open drafting, and set collection get a macabre twist. You'll need to manage your resources wisely and outwit your opponents to secure victory. It's a perfect expansion for those who already enjoy the base game and want to add a Halloween flavor and more direct interaction. Physical availability is super limited, with only 100 numbered copies, but a print-and-play PDF version is also available, ensuring no one is left out of this horror fest. If you enjoy dark themes, accessible mechanics with depth, and a touch of unpredictability, this expansion is for you!
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
OK
3
OK
4
OK
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Bedsit Games
Designer
Paul Stapleton
Artist
Paul Stapleton
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
171owners
12wishlist
9want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
Do I need the "Paupers' Ladder" base game to play this expansion?
Yes, "The Bodachs of Brighthelm" is an expansion and requires the "Paupers' Ladder" base game to be played.
How many players can participate with this expansion?
The expansion maintains the player count of the base game, which is for 2 to 4 players.
What is the average playtime with the expansion?
The playtime remains similar to the base game, generally between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the players' experience.
Does the expansion add much complexity to the game?
It adds new characters and some interactions, but maintains the essence of the original mechanics. The overall complexity is kept at an accessible level for those familiar with the base game.
Are the new characters very different from the originals?
Yes, the 4 new "Bodach" characters bring distinct abilities and strategies, focusing on enslaving creatures and interacting more directly with opponents, offering a new dynamic.
Where can I get the physical version of the expansion?
The physical version is extremely limited (100 copies). Check the publisher's website or specialized niche game stores. A print-and-play PDF version is also available.
Is the Halloween theme strong in the expansion?
Absolutely! The expansion features a pronounced Halloween theme, with spooky creatures, mischief, and a dark atmosphere that fits the proposal.