If you look online for the best Viking board game you’ll find more than 200 options. That means you’ll be sitting there for more than 16 hours if you only spend 5 minutes researching each one. So, you’ll need a few hints to help you out along the way. It is what it is.
What is a Viking board game?
First things first, understand what you’re dealing with here. This is not a violent physical battle inspired by a dice roll or card flip. In fact, you probably won’t touch anybody or plunder anything but imaginary loot. Instead, you’ll enjoy a strategic form of gameplay that can be extremely fun and also very challenging.
FUN FACT: There’s a big difference between Viking board games and the board games played by Vikings.
The best Viking board game for your crew
Only you know what kinds of games your peeps like the play. So, don’t base your choice on clever advertising or pretty packaging. Pick your poison the smart way by considering one of these 3 popular options:
#1.Hnefatafl
It’s pronounced “neffa-taffle“ and it’s one of the most beloved games played by the Vikings back in the day. Today, it’s enjoyed all over the world because it can be played for cheap and set up almost anywhere. Players experiment with different strategies using attackers, defenders, and a king on an 11×11 grid that’s often drawn out on paper or played on a Hnefatafl board.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate – The rules are simple but the possibilities are complex.
#2. Risk: Conquest of Europe
There are many different versions of Risk but this one takes place in Northern Europe. The map is still divided into Medieval Kingdoms but there are new gameplay options like Cards of the Gods that can change scenarios instantly. Defeat your foes by storming their territory using a combination of might and strategy.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate – There’s a way to be defeated by an opponent no matter what you do.
#3.Yggdrasil Chronicles
This is the new and improved version of the 2011 hit, Yggdrasil. As a player, you assume the role of a Norse god then use your powers to defend a realm from the bad guys. It features classic characters like Loki to keep gameplay interesting. Plus, each person has to deal with different strengths and weaknesses to conquer and/or protect territories.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy – You can choose between several game modes from Easy to Hard, depending on the players.
Playing a Viking board game with your friends and family can be a lot of fun. That is, if you know how to win and lose gracefully. So, improve your chances of victory but still be ready for a swift defeat.
Tips to help you win more games
You might have to try hard, but winning a Viking board game is easier than you think. Just try one of these simple tricks:
- Brush up on your Viking knowledge because that can help you understand your game pieces a lot better.
- Learn your opponent’s strategies. That way, you can beat them at their own game.
- Memorize the game. In other words, try to commit the details of the board, die, and cards to memory.
Remember, losing doesn’t necessarily mean the game is no fun. You can have an equally awesome time by losing like a champion. After all, it might teach you something about your own strengths and weaknesses.