by radagast14
Radagast’s Reviews – Star Trek: TOS Deck Building GameOverall Score – (9/10)
Introduction – I like all the Treks but The Original Series is my favorite. So, of course, the Original Series edition of the Star Trek Deck Building Game was an easy decision of a purchase. Here’s my initial thoughts on the game after playing through it a few times, both in terms as a new iteration of an established game and as a stand-alone game in its own right.
Concept (10/10) – Bring The Original Series in on the Star Trek Deck Building Game system. The Original Series is a natural thematic fit with the new changes to the game system.
Components (9/10) – The replacement of cardboard inserts for the previous foam ones is a downgrade, but the box itself remains among the most functional of any deck building game. All three Star Trek deck building games fit in a single box with room to spare. Best of all, the quality of the screen shots has drastically improved with this latest iteration.
Gameplay (9/10) – I LOVE the changes in gameplay for this edition: new and improved basic characters, new starter deck cards, the handheld mechanic, and mission draft cards. The removal of starship upgrades both streamlines and balances gameplay. Each card in the space deck is thematically linked to a single episode, which is reflected both in the requirements to accomplish missions and the rewards earned for doing so.
Complexity (8.5/10) – The rulebook of the first Star Trek deck building game is one of the worst rulebooks I’ve ever read. The rulebook for this edition is improved drastically – I suspect someone for whom English is their first language actually wrote this one. The new rulebook and the addition of in-progress game illustrations clarifies previous questions and equates to a much better accessibility to the game.
Fun Factor (8.5/10) – The improvements to the game across the board naturally connects to the increased fun factor as well. It doesn’t matter if The Original Series is your favorite Trek or not – fans of any Trek will enjoy this edition of the Star Trek Deck Building Game.
Replay Value (9/10) – As always, the huge starbase deck guarantees different game progressions every hand. The new infection scenario is an enjoyable diversion as well. A variety of new character abilities only diversifies the experience even more.