Star Wars Villainous: Scum and Villainy

Ravensburger AG · Board game · 2023
8.0 Ludopedia 7.5 BGG 2–3 · best 3 50 min Weight 2.7/5
Buy · from US$ 24.49
8.0 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you love scheming in a galaxy far, far away, this game will hook you from the first play.

Highlights
  • Iconic Star Wars theme
  • Asymmetric gameplay
  • Short playtime
Keep in mind
  • Steep rule learning curve
  • Only supports up to 3 players
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Star Wars Villainous: Scum and Villainy puts you in the seat of one of three legendary galactic villains, including bounty hunter Boba Fett. Each villain wields a unique power that is expressed through "ambition," a resource used to trigger abilities rooted in the Force, strategic leadership, or sheer luck. The goal is to complete secret missions that differ per character, employing cards, iconic ships and transports that appear throughout the game. A modular board depicts various corners of the galaxy, and you place workers on spaces that generate income, recruit allies, or unlock special actions. Hand management is key: deciding when to play or hold cards can swing the outcome. The melding and splaying mechanics let you build card piles that, when spread, grant cumulative effects. The game also features "Take That" moments, allowing you to disrupt opponents by stealing resources or blocking spots. Because each villain has distinct objectives and powers, matches are asymmetric and demand constant adaptation. With an average playtime of 50 minutes and a light complexity (weight 2.7), it’s approachable for both Star Wars fans and lovers of strategic card games. You can even mix these villains with those from the Power of the Dark Side expansion for added variety. In short, Scum and Villainy offers a thematic, tactical, and twist‑filled experience, ideal for 2‑3 players who enjoy scheming in the shadows of the Force.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–3 players
2 REC
3 BEST

Where to Buy

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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

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

2,944owners
361wishlist
37want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can join?
2 to 3 players.
What is the typical playtime?
About 50 minutes, varying with player experience.
How complex is the game?
BGG weight 2.7 – light to moderate, easy to learn but with strategic depth.
What components are included?
Villain cards, action cards, modular board, ambition markers, worker tokens, income tokens, and iconic ship miniatures.
Do I need the Villainous expansions?
No. The game is fully playable on its own, though it can be mixed with the Power of the Dark Side expansion for extra villains.
What is the recommended age?
12+ due to rule reading and thematic content.
Is there a Portuguese version?
Yes, all cards and rules are available in Portuguese.

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