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Mistborn Deckbuilding Game Review – A Tabletop Delight for Sanderson Fans and Beyond
- Image of Mistborn Deckbuilding Game, Courtesy of Brotherwise Games

Ever wonder what it would feel like to wield the powers of Allomancy, battling alongside iconic characters from Sanderson’s Mistborn universe? Well, buckle up, buttercups, because Mistborn Deckbuilding Game is here to teleport you straight into Scadrial while simultaneously feeding your deckbuilding addiction. And yes, I’m happy to report that it doesn’t disappoint—even if there’s room for a little more flair.

If you’re into deckbuilders and epic fantasy, congrats, you’re the exact target market for this game. But even if you’re not (gasp!), the game still has enough engaging elements to keep you entertained. Let’s break down the experience, shall we?

What’s in the Box? (Spoiler Alert… Cards. Lots of Cards.) 

You know you’re in for a ride when the box contents read like a grocery list for a fantasy hoarder. Here’s what you’re unboxing:

  • Over 100 beautifully designed cards showcasing everything from legendary characters like Kelsier and Vin (yes!) to iconic locations and events. 
  • “Lord Ruler challenge cards” because, of course, you’re going toe-to-toe with Scadrial’s biggest baddie. 
  • Tokens, cubes, and dials aplenty (because what’s a board game without fancy widgets to push around?). 

The first thing you’ll notice? The artwork is straight-up stunning. If you’ve read the books, prepare to have your heartstrings tugged with every card you draw. If you haven’t? Well, you’ll probably be asking your Mistborn-obsessed friend who the heck Marsh is and why he has nails through his eyes.

The Gameplay – Burn Metals, Build Decks, Blow Minds 

This isn’t just basic deckbuilding, folks. You’re not just grabbing cards to make your hand stronger; you’re burning metals to fuel your actions like a true Allomancer. Sanderson fan or not, the “burn versus flare” mechanic adds a tasty risk-reward layer that elevates the game from your typical deckbuilder fare.

Here’s how it works in a nutshell:

  • Burning Metals: The cards you play require burning specific metals. This might limit your actions early on because you’re still learning the ropes as an Allomancer. 
  • Flaring Metals: Feeling dangerous? You can flare a metal for a one-time boost, but you won’t be able to use it again until you refresh. It’s a gameplay twist that forces you to strategize carefully. 

Pro Tip? Be careful who you make enemies with when playing a competitive match. With the “pass-the-target” mechanic (aka the game’s twist on “tag, you’re it”), you’d better negotiate like your life depends on it. Spoiler alert: it does.

The ability to tackle the game cooperatively is a fresh addition to the deckbuilding genre. Teaming up against the Lord Ruler feels epic, and honestly, it’s way more Scadrial-appropriate than backstabbing your friends. Plus, the guy is scary enough to make even solo mode a nail-biter.

Does Mistborn Live Up to Sanderson’s World-Building?

Mistborn Deckbuilding Game Review – A Tabletop Delight for Sanderson Fans and Beyond 8 Image of Mistborn Deckbuilding Game, Courtesy of Brotherwise Games

Mostly, yes. But before we throw a parade, there are a few chinks in this Allomantic armor (cue collective sigh). 

Good Stuff First: 

  • The replayability is solid, thanks to eight mission cards that shake up every playthrough. 
  • The dual modes (co-op or competitive) feel surprisingly balanced. You don’t often see a game excel at both without one side feeling like an afterthought. 
  • The overall Sanderson vibes are alive and well, with every card oozing thematic flavor. 

Missed Opportunities: 

  • Only four characters? Really? We get it; Kelsier’s great, but tossing in a few more options (ahem, Wax and Wayne, anyone?) would’ve been the icing on this Allomantic cake. 
  • Where’s the love for Feruchemy or Hemalurgy? Come on, you crack open a Sanderson book, and the potential gameplay mechanics practically leap off the page. 

Here’s hoping Brotherwise Games is cooking up an expansion (because what’s the deal with no one playing as the Lord Ruler?). Seriously, the entire player base is already mentally designing a “Twinborn mechanic” where characters could rock both Allomancy and Feruchemy. Brotherwise, here’s your million-dollar idea. Call me.

Who Is This Game For?

  • Fans of the Mistborn series who want to geek out over every lovingly crafted detail. 
  • Deckbuilding enthusiasts who are tired of the same old rinse-and-repeat card mechanics (cough Star Realms). 
  • Anyone who’s ready to introduce their non-fantasy friends to the magic of Scadrial because, frankly, they don’t know what they’re missing. 

If you’re a solo gamer? You’ll be pleased to know this game is way more challenging than most single-player deckbuilders out there. Playing against the Lord Ruler alone? Terrifying… but addictive.

Final Thoughts and Verdict 

Mistborn Deckbuilding Game is a flavorful addition to the genre. It nails the fantasy-meets-card-game formula, offering enough innovation to keep gameplay fresh while staying true to Brandon Sanderson’s universe.

That said, it’s definitely built with fans in mind. If you’re completely new to Sanderson’s work, no biggie; just prepare for a lot of “Wait, why are all these dudes spiked through the head?” moments. (Pro Tip: Find a friend who’s obsessively read the books. They’ll love explaining it.)

Is it perfect? No. Could it be better with expansions? Absofreakinlutely. But for now, it’s a solid entry with the potential to grow into a tabletop empire.

This article first appeared on Total Apex Gaming and was syndicated with permission.

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