Arcana Rising
Arcana Rising review
Arcana Rising is a solid drafting and engine-building game that provides a fun, quick-playing experience for up to six players. The core mechanic of selecting cards and building your magical engine is engaging, and the inclusion of moon tokens that influence which spells you can cast adds a strategic layer that keeps you thinking on your toes.
I particularly appreciate the game's simple rules, which make it easy to learn and play even for newcomers to the genre. It's also a lot of fun to watch everyone mumble through their turns as they try to figure out the best way to use their spells! I found the drafting system to be quite compelling, and there are a lot of different strategies you can employ to gain an advantage.
However, I did find that the game can feel a bit repetitive after a few plays. While the drafting and spell-casting mechanics are enjoyable, the lack of a "wonder" element (as mentioned in one of the reviews) might leave some players wanting more depth. Additionally, I did notice a few inconsistencies in the quality of the components. One of the boards in my copy did tear after a few plays, which was disappointing.
Overall, I'd recommend Arcana Rising for anyone looking for a fun, quick-playing drafting game. It's a great option for casual game nights and can be enjoyed by players of all experience levels. However, if you're looking for a game with more complexity and replayability, you might want to consider other options.