The Villainous series by Ravensburger now has three different themed sets, all with their own twist on the game. The original Disney Villainous, Marvel Villainous where they introduce a “multiverse” mechanic, and then the newest theme that I’ll be reviewing today Star Wars Villainous.
Star Wars Villainous Base Set
Gameplay and Design
The base set of Star Wars Villainous comes with 5 playable villains, Darth Vader, General Grievous, Asajj Ventres, Moff Gideon, and Kylo Ren. Already out of the box the first difference is that the base set comes with five instead of the usual six. Upon unpacking, I immediately noticed the remarkable quality of these Star Wars pieces. While Disney and Marvel pieces are impressive, there's an undeniable 'wow' factor unique to the Star Wars collection.
In Star Wars Villainous, a new mechanic called Deep Space has been introduced. With Deep Space, players can utilize vehicle cards to add a fifth location accessible during gameplay. These vehicle cards not only offer the same actions as regular locations but also provide special abilities that assist each villain in achieving their goals more efficiently.
Each character in the game has impressively unique goals that aren't recycled with a different theme. Instead, each goal is tailored to suit the character, making them feel authentically distinct. For instance, General Grievous aims to gather 8 lightsabers by vanquishing heroes, a fitting objective for his character. Similarly, Darth Vader's goal of defeating Luke Skywalker is another example of how the goals resonate perfectly within the Star Wars universe, keeping an immersive and thematic experience.
Feedback
While I understand that countering goals is a fundamental aspect of the game's challenge, some goals seem overly susceptible to counters, leaving players feeling trapped at times. Strategy undoubtedly plays a crucial role, and I appreciate that dynamic. However, there are moments when the randomness of card draws can render strategic planning ineffective, creating a sense of frustration and limitation.
Verdict
In terms of ranking the three Villainous themes, I'd place Disney first, followed by Star Wars and then Marvel. Although I'm not a die-hard Star Wars fan, I must admit that the game's high-quality components and thematic objectives impressed me greatly. Star Wars Villainous introduces complex objectives that demand strategic thinking and careful planning before playing your cards. It's a must-have for both Star Wars enthusiasts and avid Villainous players alike.
Star Wars Villainous: Scum & Villainy Expansion
Gameplay and Design
Introducing another themed box for Star Wars Villainous: Scum and Villainy. This expansion spotlights the iconic Boba Fett, leading to a Bounty Hunter-themed experience. I must note that the goals set for each character in this expansion are exceptionally fulfilling to achieve, making it a standout among the various character sets available.
Since it’s a bounty hunter themed box you could guess that the goals for each character would be bounty based, and you’d get that one correct! Each character has their own way of completing their bounties but my favorite one is Boba Fett. To complete Boba Fett’s goals you actually acquire different bounties with their own unique goal and collect a reward after completion and to me it was one of the most rewarding Villainous experiences.
Feedback
Boba Fett brought one of my favorite Villainous experiences to the table, but because of how brightly he shined Cad Bane and the Seventh Sister were pushed to the side a bit. While still rewarding they were similar to one another and slightly less rewarding.
Verdict
Star Wars Villainous: Scum and Villainy is definitely in my must play section for people that are first trying to learn Villainous. While the goals are a little more complex the satisfaction you get from completing the goals is high on the scale compared to other Villainous characters. Boba Fett is definitely going to make a return to my table.
