Small World: Leaders of Small World

Days of Wonder · Board game · 2009

7.2 Ludopedia 6.6 BGG 2–5 · best 4 40–80 min Weight 2.0/5

7.2 rating Ludopedia

6.6 rating BGG

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Our Verdict

FOR GENRE FANS

For those who already enjoy Small World and want another trick up their sleeve, Leaders arrive to give that extra boost! It's a promotional expansion that adds a nice risk/reward element.

Highlights

Extra units with a bonus
Risk/reward element
Easy to integrate
Expands strategy

Keep in mind

Leaders disappear quickly
Can be captured

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About the game

What you do in a play session

Hey folks! If you're looking to expand the Small World universe, this one's for you! Small World: Leaders of Small World adds an extra strategic layer with Leaders, acting as a special bonus for your chosen races. When you pick a new race and power combination, you can opt to take its corresponding Leader. It functions as an additional unit, giving you an early advantage and a certain flair on the battlefield.

But hey, don't get too attached! The Leader is a brave and slightly stubborn character: they won't stay in regions that offer immunity and, worse (or better, depending on your perspective), they disappear as soon as the race goes into decline. It's a burst of power that vanishes quickly! And there's more: if an opponent manages to capture your Leader, they can be held hostage. If you don't pay the ransom, be prepared, because that Leader will be worth two victory points to the captor at the end of the game. A shame, but a great way to turn the tables in your favor!

This expansion, which started as a promo, brings 24 Leader tokens (the second edition has 48) that are neither a race nor a power, but rather an extra that can make a difference. It's a neat way to add an extra layer of tactics without overcomplicating the rules we already love in Small World. Perfect for those who want to spice up their games and add an element of risk and reward.