Board game deals like these don’t come around often, and with so many titles discounted this season, it’s been impossible not to daydream about what I’d love to grab. From nostalgic classics to epic modern adventures, here are the top five picks that have tempted me the most, and why each one earned its spot on my wishlist.
5) Descent Legends of the Dark
Only gaining the number 5 position because I already own it! If I could get this awesome game for this incredible price, a huge amount of game for less than £75 in the sale, I would not be hesitating. Descent Legends of the Dark has been my favourite game of the year. Having played through the story for a while now, I am just growing to enjoy this more and more. The minis and terrain are really cool; adding a super immersive feel to the game. The progression is a little confusing but, once you start to get how things work, you find out that each character plays differently and really feels like they have unique strengths and weaknesses to manage. Get into the adventure, upgrade your weapons by crafting new parts and learn new abilities as you battle the evil Uthuk forces that threaten Terrinoth. You’ll need to manage your cards, actions and the impact of injuries if you are to succeed. A fantastic game!
4) Cranium 25th Anniversary Edition
Cranium is a game that fills me with nostalgia for the early 2000s. There were regular nights when a group of us would gather at our friend’s flat and play Cranium. We’d randomise the teams into pairs and see who came out on top that session. We’d grab a few drinks from the local off license, and it was a fantastic social experience leaving memories I still smile about when I recall them. For example, the time our friend made a record player from the dough and their partner didn’t know what it was when everyone else could clearly tell that led to them screaming “It was so good, I could have plugged it in and it would have f**king worked!” was just hilarious. Also, everyone joining in with the name the tune being hummed rounds once you knew what it was… great fun for all involved.
3) Magic: The Gathering – Final Fantasy Commander Deck – Revival Trance
If Cranium reminds me of my early 20s Final Fantasy reminds of binning off A-Level study to immerse myself in the most incredible story-driven RPG video game I’ve ever experienced. Every time I visit my Local Gaming Store, Magic is being played and is by far and away the most popular game. Whenever a set is released that I think looks exciting, I am incredibly tempted and none have done so more than the Final Fantasy crossover. Commander decks in particular are of interest, since that is the most popular format. At this price, with over £20 off, the only thing stopping me from going ahead and buying it is the fact I have three children whose Christmas lists must come first!
2) Chaos Knights: Chaos Knight Ruinator
Warhammer 40,000 is amazing, and what could be better than a huge robotic centrepiece to lay waste to your enemies. This “miniature” defies the name standing around 12 inches tall. Along with its sheer size, this figure looks so cool on the box art with its skull face visage, chains, spikes and banners. This is just one of the potential variants that you can build too, with a tusked Knight Abominant option that looks like an absolute beast. At a shade under £30 discount from the RRP in the sale, this is an absolute steal for Chaos Space Marine Collectors. I know that it is on my youngest son’s “things I’d want” list and I can understand why.
1) Heroquest
If Cranium was a throwback to my 20s and Final Fantasy to my teens, this takes me back to 8 years of age! Games around the table with the whole family involved. If I’ve been blown away and tempted by the savings on offer for the previous items on the list, this one is equally incredible. Available in the sale for just £67.99, those people wanting the ultimate gaming gateway for fantasy loving youngsters should look no further than the game that did it for pretty much every person of my generation! So, grab your broadsword and adventure for treasure and glory vs the Evil Wizard’s minions.
