The World of SMOG: Rise of Moloch

CMON Global Limited, asmodee, Delta Vision Publishing · Board game · 2018
2–5 · best 5 45–90 min Weight 2.9/5
8.4 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
Buy · from US$ 77.04
8.4 rating Ludopedia
7.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you enjoy a good steampunk adventure with a compelling one-vs-many showdown, The World of SMOG: Rise of Moloch is a great pick! The campaign and variable powers ensure the fun doesn't end quickly.

Highlights
  • Engaging campaign narrative
  • Fun asymmetric powers
  • Captivating steampunk theme
  • Quality miniatures
Keep in mind
  • High language dependency
  • Initial learning curve
  • One player can feel overwhelmed
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Prepare for an alternate Victorian adventure in The World of SMOG: Rise of Moloch! This game for 2 to 5 players plunges England into an era where magic and steampunk technology blend explosively. You can tackle the challenge as an epic campaign, uncovering a story that unfolds with each session, or enjoy individual missions. One player takes on the villainous Nemesis role, controlling agents and minions with unique powers, while other players form the team of intrepid Gentlemen, fighting to protect the Crown. In each scenario, the secret order of your characters' actions is crucial, and the clever use of your steam-powered weapons and special abilities can turn the tide. Each mission features a different board setup and specific objectives for both sides, and the outcomes of one game directly influence the next, ensuring every campaign is a fresh and exciting experience. With grid movement, dice rolling, and a modular board that changes each game, Rise of Moloch offers plenty of replayability and strategy. It's a treat for those who enjoy games with miniatures, asymmetric powers, and a good dose of tactical conflict in a steampunk universe with touches of horror and science fiction.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

7 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–5 players
2 BEST
3 REC
4 REC
5 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Category: Dungeon Crawler Country: England Creatures: Monsters Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Mechanism: Campaign Games Players: One versus Many Setting: The World of SMOG Theme: Steampunk
Publisher CMON Global Limited, asmodee, Delta Vision Publishing
Designer Alex Olteanu, Christophe Madura, David Rakoto, Fel Barros, Michael Shinall
Artist Christophe Madura, Georges Clarenko

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

3,444owners
591wishlist
61want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
What is the average playtime?
A game of The World of SMOG: Rise of Moloch can last between 45 and 90 minutes, depending on the number of players and familiarity with the rules.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 2 to 5 players, with one player taking on the role of the Nemesis against the others.
Is it a campaign game or does it play as one-offs?
You can play Rise of Moloch as a continuous campaign, where each game affects the next, or as individual, standalone adventures.
Does the game require a lot of English text?
Yes, the game has a considerable language dependency, with a lot of text on the cards and in the rulebook. A translation is highly recommended for players who are not fluent in English.
What makes each character different?
Each player controls a "Gentleman" or an "Agent/Minion" with unique powers and abilities, offering distinct strategies and diversifying gameplay.
Does the board change each game?
Yes, the game uses a modular board, allowing for different configurations each game and increasing replayability.
Is it a complex game?
With a medium weight of 2.9/5 on BGG, it offers good strategic depth without being overly complex, making it accessible for those with some board game experience.