Star Wars Villainous: Cold Tactics

Ravensburger AG · Board game · 2025
2 50 min Weight 2.7/5
10.0 rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Buy
10.0 rating Ludopedia
7.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you love Star Wars villains and a tight two‑player tactical duel, Cold Tactics delivers with slick cards.

Highlights
  • Strong Star Wars theme
  • Asymmetric action engine
  • High player interaction
Keep in mind
  • Only for 2 players
  • Learning curve on mechanics
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Star Wars Villainous: Cold Tactics brings two iconic saga figures — the cold strategist Grand Admiral Thrawn and the scheming Count Dooku — into Ravensburger's acclaimed Villainous system. Each player receives a themed deck reflecting their villain's personality and plans. Thrawn's goal is to seize Imperial planets by gathering artifacts, deploying the 7th Fleet, and using Ambition to flip locations to his side. Dooku, on the other hand, leads the Separatists, defeating Jedi and intimidating neutral groups into becoming his allies, culminating in a coup against the Republic.

The board is split into exclusive sectors for each villain, where you move your action engine to trigger abilities, draw cards, and execute effects. Hand management is key: decide when to play attacks, defenses, or resources, as each card can swing the game. The game also features Take That, letting you discard cards from your opponent's Destiny deck or block their actions, ensuring plenty of back‑handed fun. Variable player powers create asymmetric matches, demanding different strategies each play.

Cold Tactics can be played solo or mixed with other Villainous expansions, expanding the roster of villains and combos. High‑quality components — illustrated cards, ship tokens, galactic coins, and a sector board — deepen immersion in the Star Wars universe. Designed for two players, a game lasts 40–60 minutes, with simple rules for newcomers but enough depth for strategy fans. If you love card games with strong theme, charismatic villains, and lots of interaction, this title is a perfect fit.

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 OK

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Movies: Star Wars Series: Villainous Theme: Villainy
Publisher Ravensburger AG
Designer Michael Mulvihill, Prospero Hall
Artist Jake Breish

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can play?
The box is designed for exactly 2 players.
How long does a game take?
Typically between 40 and 60 minutes, depending on player experience.
Do I need to know the rules of other Villainous expansions?
No. Cold Tactics works as a standalone game, though you can mix it with other expansions if you wish.
What is the recommended age?
10+ years, although younger kids can play with adult assistance.
What components are included?
Villain decks, sector board, ship tokens, galactic coins, objective markers, and a concise rule sheet.
Is there a language limitation?
Cards and rules are in English; you’ll need a translation or a Portuguese version if available.
Can I play with more than two people?
Not directly; the game is built for two, but house rules could adapt it for larger groups.

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