Thunderstone

[Matthias Maccabeus]

Here's a video review by Tom Vasel -
http://www.boardgamegeek.com/thread/480880/video-review-thunderstone

It's similar to Dominion with the deck building concept, but it has a dungeon theme connected to it. If you like Dominion and are into any type of dungeon games (Descent, DnD, HeroQuest, etc) I encourage you to check it out. It's been a lot of fun. There's already one expansion planned for early spring.

[nbxfan]

Just wondering what others opinions are on the game. Since getting it, it weekly makes the table for at least one go around. Looking forward to the expansion and hoping for something a bit deeper.

[stubobj]

Id really love to pick this up but my wife wont let me until we get Intrigue and Seaside. Is this as non-gamer friendly as Dominion? Last time I checked at my LGS this was $10 cheaper than Dominion as well.

[Matthias Maccabeus]

Id really love to pick this up but my wife wont let me until we get Intrigue and Seaside. Is this as non-gamer friendly as Dominion? Last time I checked at my LGS this was $10 cheaper than Dominion as well.

I'll show it to you this weekend when you guys come up.

[Bengi]

I played this the other night and I enjoyed it a lot.

-Quick game. (~1-1.5 hr)
-Quick turns, so there is very little waiting for others to do their thing.

[Kahrma]

Thunderstone has been showing up quite frequently at many of our local game-days. There's a good number of us who like it A LOT!

One thing of note - When the game was released, there were a lot of questions re: some rules. In response, the game designers made revisions - Rules version 1.2. Version 1.3 came shortly thereafter. After some additional revisions, they're finally on Rules Version 1.4 (downloadable HERE (http://www.boardgamegeek.com/filepage/52284/thunderstone-rules-v1-4) )

From what I've heard, the new rules clear up most all questions and should be included in future printings of the game.

I don't own this one personally, but haven't needed to yet - seems several friends have copies ;)

[nbxfan]

Thunderstone has been showing up quite frequently at many of our local game-days. There's a good number of us who like it A LOT!

One thing of note - When the game was released, there were a lot of questions re: some rules. In response, the game designers made revisions - Rules version 1.2. Version 1.3 came shortly thereafter. After some additional revisions, they're finally on Rules Version 1.4 (downloadable HERE (http://www.boardgamegeek.com/filepage/52284/thunderstone-rules-v1-4) )

From what I've heard, the new rules clear up most all questions and should be included in future printings of the game.

I don't own this one personally, but haven't needed to yet - seems several friends have copies ;)

The new rules definitely help but, our group has knixed one of the new additions. According to 1.4, when you go into a dungeon and fail, the monster not only does the bad stuff but, also goes to the bottom of the dungeon deck. I personally am all for it but, the group has voted and it's gone. The reason for this, is that the game ends when the Thunderstone appears in the first slot, or is captured in the second slot by killing the monster in the first slot. I realize that may sound far more confusing than it is. So the quicker the monsters are dealt with the faster the game.

One of the issues that stands out more with the greater the number of players is lack of higher level characters. This adds some need to be more aware but, someone with a good amount of gold could buy the highest ranking character rather than worry about leveling it up. It was in this particular case that the rule was decided about. As I ended up getting screwed out of all the major characters, I started going into the dungeon to just get rid of high point monsters. We all knew the rule so know one was upset about it but, felt that it changed the game too much.

I'm a bit concerned about the expansion because with all the rule changes and clarifications between the original and the new I am not sure what to expect from AEG. If it were a few FAQs here and there fine but, they really rewrote the rules including turn order. It is my opinion based on this that they didn't properly play test the game to begin with.

Should add...we still really like the game. It makes the table every week and though shares similarities with Dominion, really shouldn't be compared. They are alot different, and at this point alot less broken.

[Matthias Maccabeus]

Yeah, I feel they rushed it out without properly play-testing. I do enjoy the game quite a bit though. It'll be interesting to see how the traps work into the game. I also heard that in the expansion that if you lose against a monster you basically get a curse card of sorts, similar to that in Dominion.

[Matthias Maccabeus]

I picked up and have played Wrath of the Elements several times. So far so good. I enjoy the trap cards and the overall feel of the expansion. It reminds me of Dominion Intrigue. It's more interactive and involves the other players more.

[stubobj]

Does this set feel more polished? Does it fit in well with the base set or do things still feel unbalanced? I know the last time we played you said you felt like some of the cards were over/under priced. Do you still feel the same about it?

[Matthias Maccabeus]

Does this set feel more polished? Does it fit in well with the base set or do things still feel unbalanced? I know the last time we played you said you felt like some of the cards were over/under priced. Do you still feel the same about it?

I think it's more "polished". I think the cards are probably costed right. It's just the whole you hate to buy a $2 card when you have $11 even though the $2 Arcane Energies Card is what you need at the time. We had this situation last night. My wife and I had 3 monsters in the dungeon that only were affected by magic attacks. Neither of us had enough magic attacks because most of the Runespawns were killed off with various trap cards. So it was late in the game when we were getting high money but had to end up buying the $2 Arcane Energies card so we could get some magic attacks.

[nbxfan]

I've tried finding erata or facts for the Wrath of Elements expansion but can't seem to find any.

Just wondering how people are playing Toryn with his ability to equip multiple weapons. The book specifically states to ignore weight and not add them together but this seems ludicrous. The one game we did play it worked out well in that pole arms only weigh 2 anyway so he could hold three from a level one and still be under his weight restriction of 7. This of course meaning the rule didn't actually matter. But, there were also flaming swords.

As we have only played a single game with the new expansion, I am not sure how this will effect things further down the line. So, I guess I'm asking if anyone finds this way to over powering or if it balances out well. Our group is discussing wether we will house rule it to be that he can only carry up to his weight in weapons which seems reasonable.

Considering all the revisions for the original game, I am just surprised there isn't something for the expansion yet.

Oh and just to give my opinion of the play thru. We all really liked the additional cards. Our dungeon ended up being massive because two sets of dungeon features came out and, one of those was a pick two. So we ended up with alot of new cards. Can't wait to play more often but we generally have to many people.

[Matthias Maccabeus]

I've tried finding erata or facts for the Wrath of Elements expansion but can't seem to find any.

Just wondering how people are playing Toryn with his ability to equip multiple weapons. The book specifically states to ignore weight and not add them together but this seems ludicrous. The one game we did play it worked out well in that pole arms only weigh 2 anyway so he could hold three from a level one and still be under his weight restriction of 7.

As we have only played a single game with the new expansion, I am not sure how this will effect things further down the line. So, I guess I'm asking if anyone finds this way to over powering or if it balances out well. Our group is discussing wether we will house rule it to be that he can only carry up to his weight in weapons which seems reasonable. As it was, I was walking deep into dungeons and desimating with three pole arms giving him +18 to attack with just weapons. Pretty dumb and I ended up winning by a long shot.

I don't think he's overpowered at all. You still have to draw him with that many weapons. It's really not much different than an Outlands with lots of food or monsters in your hand.

[nbxfan]

There is definitely that in pulling the right cards. I guess that makes sense. By the third level, one of the guys was going dungeon diving with the hope of someone dropping a weapon he could then use. It was still fun but, there is the luck factor. Thanks for the response.

[Matthias Maccabeus]

http://www.boardgamegeek.com/boardgameexpansion/70940/thunderstone-doomgate-legion

I've been checking out Doomgate Legion and once again it looks to add things that definitely make the game even better. There's also another expansion / starter set coming out next year.

http://www.boardgamegeek.com/boardgameexpansion/85897/thunderstone-dragonspire

[xraine69]

Ok, I've got Thunderstone and Wrath of the Elementals and just finished organizing the cards. How many CLAN cards are there? Unless I mixed them up, I have none, but I have a divider for them.:shrug:

EDIT: Nevermind, got it figured out now. Just ordered the Clan cards from BGG. Any where I can get the Deathknight promo?

[Matthias Maccabeus]

Ok, I've got Thunderstone and Wrath of the Elementals and just finished organizing the cards. How many CLAN cards are there? Unless I mixed them up, I have none, but I have a divider for them.:shrug:

EDIT: Nevermind, got it figured out now. Just ordered the Clan cards from BGG. Any where I can get the Deathknight promo?

I think we just have to wait on BGG for the Deathknight and Blade Trap promos.

[xraine69]

Ok, I've got Thunderstone and Wrath of the Elementals and just finished organizing the cards. How many CLAN cards are there? Unless I mixed them up, I have none, but I have a divider for them.:shrug:

EDIT: Nevermind, got it figured out now. Just ordered the Clan cards from BGG. Any where I can get the Deathknight promo?

I think we just have to wait on BGG for the Deathknight and Blade Trap promos.
Oh, I thought BGG was out of stock. I am assuming from your comment, that BGG is still waiting to get them, then. Good to know I didn't miss them. I have read the rules some, but haven't tried it yet. Been busy figuring out Descent and playing Summoner Wars. One of these days, a good game will come out and I will find someone to teach me, instead of learning myself and then trying to teach others. :lol:

[Matthias Maccabeus]

Ok, I've got Thunderstone and Wrath of the Elementals and just finished organizing the cards. How many CLAN cards are there? Unless I mixed them up, I have none, but I have a divider for them.:shrug:

EDIT: Nevermind, got it figured out now. Just ordered the Clan cards from BGG. Any where I can get the Deathknight promo?

I think we just have to wait on BGG for the Deathknight and Blade Trap promos.
Oh, I thought BGG was out of stock. I am assuming from your comment, that BGG is still waiting to get them, then. Good to know I didn't miss them. I have read the rules some, but haven't tried it yet. Been busy figuring out Descent and playing Summoner Wars. One of these days, a good game will come out and I will find someone to teach me, instead of learning myself and then trying to teach others. :lol:

If you've played Dominion at all than this game is pretty easy to pick up. Just remember 6 cards, not 5. Than you either go kill monsters, go to the village, or trash a card.

I'm anxiously awaiting for Doomgate Legion to be released to the "public".

[xraine69]

Ok, I've got Thunderstone and Wrath of the Elementals and just finished organizing the cards. How many CLAN cards are there? Unless I mixed them up, I have none, but I have a divider for them.:shrug:

EDIT: Nevermind, got it figured out now. Just ordered the Clan cards from BGG. Any where I can get the Deathknight promo?

I think we just have to wait on BGG for the Deathknight and Blade Trap promos.
Oh, I thought BGG was out of stock. I am assuming from your comment, that BGG is still waiting to get them, then. Good to know I didn't miss them. I have read the rules some, but haven't tried it yet. Been busy figuring out Descent and playing Summoner Wars. One of these days, a good game will come out and I will find someone to teach me, instead of learning myself and then trying to teach others. :lol:

If you've played Dominion at all than this game is pretty easy to pick up. Just remember 6 cards, not 5. Than you either go kill monsters, go to the village, or trash a card.

I'm anxiously awaiting for Doomgate Legion to be released to the "public".
Never played Dominion. Before Scape, I played some of the CCG's(Spellfire, L5R, M:TG and Yugioh) over the years. With Scape being cancelled, I am finding myself interested in new games. :lol:


Scape made me a gaming addict!!!:drool:

[xraine69]

Two quick questions.
1) When leveling up fighters, I assume you only need the XP to pay for them and not have to pay the gold price?
2) Does anyone know the timing of Breach in a solo match? I have been playing it takes place at the end of my next turn, since monsters aren't revealed until after I discard and draw.

Playing solo to get an understanding of the rules before I teach my son.

[Matthias Maccabeus]

Two quick questions.
1) When leveling up fighters, I assume you only need the XP to pay for them and not have to pay the gold price?
2) Does anyone know the timing of Breach in a solo match? I have been playing it takes place at the end of my next turn, since monsters aren't revealed until after I discard and draw.

Playing solo to get an understanding of the rules before I teach my son.

XP only.
-Just remember you can't double level on a turn (you can't got from level 1 to 3 even if you 5 XP).
-You can level up as many heroes as you want on one turn
-Militia are considered heroes and can level up to a level one hero by paying 3 XP

In a solo match I believe breach happens as soon as you reload the dungeon. It's been awhile since I played solo but that's what I recall.

[xraine69]

thanks.

I REALLY hate the trap Rolling Boulder in solo play!!!


First game ever, played solo and lost, 54 to 48.:(

[xraine69]

I have looked and looked. Does a hero's strength being reduced to 0 destroy him?

[Matthias Maccabeus]

I have looked and looked. Does a hero's strength being reduced to 0 destroy him?

Only if the effect dictates it. I know one of the monsters says this, but as a general rule of thumb, no.

[xraine69]

Thanks. I assume a strength of 0 can still hold a weapon if the weight of the weapon is decreased to 0? i.e. Magical Aura.

[xraine69]

Well, I got my Doomgate Legion today. Holy Crap!:shocked: There are some very powerful cards in this set. I can't say enough about this game. I love the specific gameplay of Thunderstone and the fact it is a LCG. I got to the point I really hated CCGs, I can never afford to keep up. I have lost a slew of money over the last 20 yrs on M:TG, YuGiOh and others and have always just given the collections away out of frustration. Thunderstone is one card game I will keep for yrs to come, along with SW(:thumbsup: Truth!).

I can't wait to get some games of Thunderstone in.


The recent acquisition of some of my new games are directly connected to Scape. Without Scape, I may never had tried alot of these. Long live Heroscape!!!

[Matthias Maccabeus]

My copy is being shipped today. I've been checking it out on BGG though. I'm digging the mercenaries the most (well of course this is all speculation since I haven't played it yet).

[xraine69]

My copy is being shipped today. I've been checking it out on BGG though. I'm digging the mercenaries the most (well of course this is all speculation since I haven't played it yet).
They really look interesting, some of the new monsters look like they can really become a major pain if your random heros are a bad match. I hope to get a game or 2 in tonight. Lilman just got LNoE yesterday and we played a basic game and he is excited to try the advanced rules along with Survival of the Fittest(including the Grave Weapons zombies minis). Let you know how it goes if we get to play.;):lol:

I really need to find a great deal on Ultrapro clear sleeves for LNoE and Thunderstone. Right now it's looking like $75(which I don't have) to sleeve them both.:(

[xraine69]

Hey Matthias, do you sleeve your Thunderstone cards? I wound up getting Mayday standard sleeves since they fit my budget better. I just finished sleeving all 3 sets. A little over 1100 sleeves. With so many cards and Dragonspire on the way, I have decided to make a custom box. I bought my son an artist's box for LNoE and I have decided to get one for Thunderstone. I plan to add dividers in it to make 4 rows. This will hold all of Thunderstone for awhile.

http://www.alltelmypics.net/photos/photo04/f0/36/e6da2433cd43_ad80fa2c-a1bc-4f7a-b1f3-a4fa95edba24.jpg

[xraine69]

Dragonspire Unboxxing (http://www.livingdice.com/5745/thunderstone-dragonspire-unboxing/)

Also, they announced that these promos will be available for free to order sometime this week. Additional cards may be purchased, too.:woot:
Death Sentinel
Blade Trap
The Vision
Mammoth
Harruli (complete upgrade set on this character)

[Matthias Maccabeus]

Dragonspire Unboxxing (http://www.livingdice.com/5745/thunderstone-dragonspire-unboxing/)

Also, they announced that these promos will be available for free to order sometime this week. Additional cards may be purchased, too.:woot:
Death Sentinel
Blade Trap
The Vision
Mammoth
Harruli (complete upgrade set on this character)

I've been following this on fb. I am pretty stoked. I love every expansion and how much it adds to the game.

[xraine69]

I haven't played in awhile. The only complaint I have about the game is card quality. After only a handful of games the cards were already showing wear. Now I have them sleeved, so I'll be getting some games in soon. Also, been busy with AToE, LNoE and GOSU. I need to get some Summoner Wars in too.

[xraine69]

If you play Thunderstone, here's your chance to get the latest promos free.

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/free-thunderstone-promo-pack/

[Matthias Maccabeus]

If you play Thunderstone, here's your chance to get the latest promos free.

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/free-thunderstone-promo-pack/

Already ordered them! You can also win a free Dragonspire in the Village Idiot contest.

[xraine69]

If you play Thunderstone, here's your chance to get the latest promos free.

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/free-thunderstone-promo-pack/

Already ordered them! You can also win a free Dragonspire in the Village Idiot contest.
Only if they accept me as the Village Idiot.:drool:
:p

[xraine69]

I have looked and looked. Does a hero's strength being reduced to 0 destroy him?

Only if the effect dictates it. I know one of the monsters says this, but as a general rule of thumb, no.
From the Dragonspire rulebook:

Note: If a Hero’s Strength reaches 0 or less at any time during a battle, the Hero is destroyed at the end of the turn!

[Matthias Maccabeus]

I have looked and looked. Does a hero's strength being reduced to 0 destroy him?

Only if the effect dictates it. I know one of the monsters says this, but as a general rule of thumb, no.
From the Dragonspire rulebook:

Note: If a Hero’s Strength reaches 0 or less at any time during a battle, the Hero is destroyed at the end of the turn!


This must be a new mechanic...

Also drakkenstrike reviewed Dragonspire with a video review yesterday. The art still looks top notch even w/o Jason Engle doing it all.

[Supergeek]

I've been looking hard at this one lately due to the solo rules in the Wrath of the Elements expansion and the fact that I've ordered the free promo cards.

[Matthias Maccabeus]

I've been looking hard at this one lately due to the solo rules in the Wrath of the Elements expansion and the fact that I've ordered the free promo cards.

Go for it!. This game has moved to my second favorite behind scape. The art is by far the best art I've seen in ANY game.

[Omahavice]

I've been looking hard at this one lately due to the solo rules in the Wrath of the Elements expansion and the fact that I've ordered the free promo cards.

Go for it!. This game has moved to my second favorite behind scape. The art is by far the best art I've seen in ANY game.

Even though I have only played Thunderstone 2 or 3 times with Matthias, I also ordered the FREE promo cards. I really want to like Thunderstone but so far it just doesnt have the flow and pizazz that Dominion and all of its derivatives have for me. I will admit that the Thunderstone cards have the best art by far. Who knows, a few more games with Matthias and Raider30 and I may become a Thunderstone convert.:D

I think we all have played those games that we were very luke warm about at first but then they just started to grow on you.

[jschild]

Ok, can someone confirm my thinking on this and am I right - reread the rule book but didn't clarify it to me for my own satisfaction.

If I go into the dungeon and lose a battle - do I suffer zero ill effects (other than the battle effects which happen anyway)?

Because this makes it super easy to just bum rush some tough to kill cards out of the way which makes no sense to me.

[Matthias Maccabeus]

Ok, can someone confirm my thinking on this and am I right - reread the rule book but didn't clarify it to me for my own satisfaction.

If I go into the dungeon and lose a battle - do I suffer zero ill effects (other than the battle effects which happen anyway)?

Because this makes it super easy to just bum rush some tough to kill cards out of the way which makes no sense to me.

That is the many people's biggest issue with this game. I keep hoping for like a curse card (ala Dominion) to come out for doing that but alas not yet.

[Matthias Maccabeus]

Next expansion announced - Thornwood Seige - Summer 2011

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/thornwood-siege/

[B:T:L Matt]

That is the many people's biggest issue with this game. I keep hoping for like a curse card (ala Dominion) to come out for doing that but alas not yet.

My girlfriend and I also find this to be an odd mechanic in that you don't suffer any penalties. However, my girlfriend and I never enter the dungeon unless we have a well equipped hand. In fact, we have never lost a battle because we play this way. This also means that one of us is guaranteed to get the Thunderstone.

EDIT: Another idea popped into my head after I submitted... This game is greatly similar to Resident Evil in that you have a mansion deck full of creatures to attack, there's a market for you to purchase items, weapons, and action cards. Also, you choose a character which can level up through experience. Anyway, where I'm going with all this blabbering is that their mechanic to entering the mansion remedies the issue with Thunderstone's dungeon.

The remedy is that monster cards have a damage number on them. If you fail to kill the monster, you subtract the damage from your character's hit points and the monster goes to the bottom of the mansion deck. It would be great if Thunderstone's creatures had a "fail" ability written on the card.

Next expansion announced - Thornwood Seige - Summer 2011

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/thornwood-siege/

I saw this when I ordered Dragonspire which comes in Monday. Still need to try out my other expansions too.

[Matthias Maccabeus]

That is the many people's biggest issue with this game. I keep hoping for like a curse card (ala Dominion) to come out for doing that but alas not yet.

My girlfriend and I also find this to be an odd mechanic in that you don't suffer any penalties. However, my girlfriend and I never enter the dungeon unless we have a well equipped hand. In fact, we have never lost a battle because we play this way. This also means that one of us is guaranteed to get the Thunderstone.

EDIT: Another idea popped into my head after I submitted... This game is greatly similar to Resident Evil in that you have a mansion deck full of creatures to attack, there's a market for you to purchase items, weapons, and action cards. Also, you choose a character which can level up through experience. Anyway, where I'm going with all this blabbering is that their mechanic to entering the mansion remedies the issue with Thunderstone's dungeon.

The remedy is that monster cards have a damage number on them. If you fail to kill the monster, you subtract the damage from your character's hit points and the monster goes to the bottom of the mansion deck. It would be great if Thunderstone's creatures had a "fail" ability written on the card.

Next expansion announced - Thornwood Seige - Summer 2011

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/thornwood-siege/

I saw this when I ordered Dragonspire which comes in Monday. Still need to try out my other expansions too.

Yeah the only negative thing I can really think of is that you set up the next player a little better perhaps because there are new monsters out.

[B:T:L Matt]

So last night I decided that I would combine all the Thunderstone cards from every set into the Dragonspire box because I know it has the room, and I have the dividers for each deck. Upon doing this, I noticed two things that I thought odd and wanted to see if any thunderstone players had the answers.

First, I noticed that I had a divider from Dragonspire that is labeled as "Dragon - Humanoid" yet I do not have any such cards. Does anyone have these cards? If so, then I am unfortunately missing them.

Second, I noticed that I have two dividers in which one says "Guardian" and the other, "Guardians" yet I only have Doomknight Guardians, and a promo card that say Guardian Doomknight. Does anyone know how to make sense of all this?

As always, all help is greatly appreciated.

[xraine69]

The Dragon divider is for a future promo and you will be missing the divider for a hero from the latest promo pack. The Guardians divider is I believe the updated divider for all Guardians, Doomknight Guardians and Guardians-Doomknight. At least that is how I use it.

[B:T:L Matt]

The Dragon divider is for a future promo and you will be missing the divider for a hero from the latest promo pack. The Guardians divider is I believe the updated divider for all Guardians, Doomknight Guardians and Guardians-Doomknight. At least that is how I use it.

Thanks for the help... I used one of the blank dividers to write in "Harruli" which is the promo hero (I own) that you were referring to. Stupid me, I thought it would be a great idea to put everything in alphabetical order, not realizing the scope of the project. No turning back now, I guess.

EDIT: So I finally finished putting all the cards in the Dragonspire box in alphabetical order by type, to which I must say makes the box crazy heavy. I found another odd thing, to which I thought I might ask again, here, regarding the collection. I noticed for the Dungeon Feature cards, there is only one Figurine Treasure card and one Draconic Trap card, whereas as the other trap cards have two, as well as the other treasure cards. Is this normal?

[B:T:L Matt]

Thanks for the help... I used one of the blank dividers to write in "Harruli" which is the promo hero (I own) that you were referring to. Stupid me, I thought it would be a great idea to put everything in alphabetical order, not realizing the scope of the project. No turning back now, I guess.

EDIT: So I finally finished putting all the cards in the Dragonspire box in alphabetical order by type, to which I must say makes the box crazy heavy. I found another odd thing, to which I thought I might ask again, here, regarding the collection. I noticed for the Dungeon Feature cards, there is only one Figurine Treasure card and one Draconic Trap card, whereas as the other trap cards have two, as well as the other treasure cards. Is this normal?

Yes, I'm quoting myself, but I thought in addition to my other question in the quote, I'd add another. In the Dragonspire rulebook, under the card glossary, there is an entry for "Guardian of Strength" to which I noticed that I do not have this card. Is this an actual guardian or an effect of some sort?

Sorry for so many questions, but I'm fairly new to Thunderstone, and only recently cracked open all the expansions, hence why I'm trying to understand how everything is outlined.

[xraine69]

Thanks for the help... I used one of the blank dividers to write in "Harruli" which is the promo hero (I own) that you were referring to. Stupid me, I thought it would be a great idea to put everything in alphabetical order, not realizing the scope of the project. No turning back now, I guess.

EDIT: So I finally finished putting all the cards in the Dragonspire box in alphabetical order by type, to which I must say makes the box crazy heavy. I found another odd thing, to which I thought I might ask again, here, regarding the collection. I noticed for the Dungeon Feature cards, there is only one Figurine Treasure card and one Draconic Trap card, whereas as the other trap cards have two, as well as the other treasure cards. Is this normal?

Yes, I'm quoting myself, but I thought in addition to my other question in the quote, I'd add another. In the Dragonspire rulebook, under the card glossary, there is an entry for "Guardian of Strength" to which I noticed that I do not have this card. Is this an actual guardian or an effect of some sort?

Sorry for so many questions, but I'm fairly new to Thunderstone, and only recently cracked open all the expansions, hence why I'm trying to understand how everything is outlined.
There should be 2x Draconic and Figurines. Contact AEG customer service. As for the Guardian of Strength, this is one that no one has gotten an answer on yet.

[B:T:L Matt]

There should be 2x Draconic and Figurines. Contact AEG customer service. As for the Guardian of Strength, this is one that no one has gotten an answer on yet.

I just sent AEG customer service an email about the missing cards. Thanks for all your help in answering all of my questions, xraine69. It is appreciated...

[xraine69]

No prob. :thumbsup:

[B:T:L Matt]

Its me again with another question about the cards... As we all know, Dragonspire has newly printed cards of the base decks. I noticed when I played this past sunday that the dagger, iron rations, and torch cards for Dragonspire have only 15 cards each, whereas the original set has more. Is this normal, or am I missing cards? With the numerous mistakes I've been finding with my dragonspire set, I'm becoming more suspicious of owning a bad print run.

I wish the rulebook detailed quantity of card types so it was easier to figure out if something was missing.

[xraine69]

Its me again with another question about the cards... As we all know, Dragonspire has newly printed cards of the base decks. I noticed when I played this past sunday that the dagger, iron rations, and torch cards for Dragonspire have only 15 cards each, whereas the original set has more. Is this normal, or am I missing cards? With the numerous mistakes I've been finding with my dragonspire set, I'm becoming more suspicious of owning a bad print run.

I wish the rulebook detailed quantity of card types so it was easier to figure out if something was missing.
Dragonspire does have fewer basic cards. I haVe not heard an official reason as to why, yet.

[Ranior]

I've definitely been looking into getting this as I enjoy DnD and Dominion and would love a fantasy themed Dominion game.

My main question here is what I should get. Would you recommend getting Thunderstone, or Dragonspine first?

[xraine69]

I've definitely been looking into getting this as I enjoy DnD and Dominion and would love a fantasy themed Dominion game.

My main question here is what I should get. Would you recommend getting Thunderstone, or Dragonspine first?
Just getting into it, I would say; Dragonspire, Wrath, Doomgate, and then Thunderstone. Mainly because of the organization, extras and all. As for gameplay, you can start with either.

[B:T:L Matt]

Its me again with another question about the cards... As we all know, Dragonspire has newly printed cards of the base decks. I noticed when I played this past sunday that the dagger, iron rations, and torch cards for Dragonspire have only 15 cards each, whereas the original set has more. Is this normal, or am I missing cards? With the numerous mistakes I've been finding with my dragonspire set, I'm becoming more suspicious of owning a bad print run.

I wish the rulebook detailed quantity of card types so it was easier to figure out if something was missing.
Dragonspire does have fewer basic cards. I haVe not heard an official reason as to why, yet.

Yeah, I thought it was weird to see such a small supply, especially if you have 4-5 players, the base cards for those three sets will be next to nothing in the village... that is, if you don't mix the old cards with the new (which I don't).

I've definitely been looking into getting this as I enjoy DnD and Dominion and would love a fantasy themed Dominion game.

My main question here is what I should get. Would you recommend getting Thunderstone, or Dragonspine first?
Just getting into it, I would say; Dragonspire, Wrath, Doomgate, and then Thunderstone. Mainly because of the organization, extras and all. As for gameplay, you can start with either.

Thunderstone is a great game for fans of deck building games that also enjoy getting an RPG/Fantasy fix. I have to agree with xraine69 in that Dragonspire may be the best choice to go with first because it includes the most updated components such as revised dividers, a board for the dungeon, different colored backings for the randomizers, and tokens for experience points. Plus, it also has the most revised rules with the inclusion of newer elements such as guardians, dungeon features, treasures, and settings, which the original set does not have.

Also, as you collect the other sets, you can fit them all into the Dragonspire box. Don't forget your promo cards from AEG and BGG!!!

[xraine69]

I've definitely been looking into getting this as I enjoy DnD and Dominion and would love a fantasy themed Dominion game.

My main question here is what I should get. Would you recommend getting Thunderstone, or Dragonspine first?


Thunderstone is a great game for fans of deck building games that also enjoy getting an RPG/Fantasy fix. I have to agree with xraine69 in that Dragonspire may be the best choice to go with first because it includes the most updated components such as revised dividers, a board for the dungeon, different colored backings for the randomizers, and tokens for experience points. Plus, it also has the most revised rules with the inclusion of newer elements such as guardians, dungeon features, treasures, and settings, which the original set does not have.

Also, as you collect the other sets, you can fit them all into the Dragonspire box. Don't forget your promo cards from AEG and BGG!!!
Yeah...what he said.;)

[xraine69]

AEG is running a new contest for any one interested. The top 5designs win a copy of Thornwood Siege.

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/design-a-card/

[B:T:L Matt]

AEG is running a new contest for any one interested. The top 5designs win a copy of Thornwood Siege.

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/design-a-card/

I checked this out and decided to submit an idea. I submitted a "Village" card idea, we'll see what happens. ::fingers crossed::

[Matthias Maccabeus]

The Dragon Humanoids have surfaced...

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/2011/06/08/aeg-big-box-of-free-stuff/

[Dad_Scaper]

Sweet!

[Looks for phone number for FLGS...]

[B:T:L Matt]

The Dragon Humanoids have surfaced...

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/2011/06/08/aeg-big-box-of-free-stuff/

There's an event my girlfriend and I are going to at our local shop on June 26th. Here's to hoping we can snag the Thunderstone and Nightfall promos at least.

[B:T:L Matt]

Yesterday was the AEG Game Day event in which my local gaming shop had the AEG promos. The event was suppose to run from 1p.m. to 11:00p.m. and I was shocked to see how poorly handled this event was.

My girlfriend and I get there at 1:30 and head downstairs to the gaming area to find three teenagers playing Warhammer and two guys playing Magic. We waited about 30 minutes with no one else showing up. I went upstairs to ask the clerk if they were still running the event. His exact reply was, "If we are, it'd be downstairs." So I'm thinking, yeah, cool but that's not very helpful, so I asked how are they going to run the event, and his reply was, "If people want to run some games, they can."

Perplexed, I went back downstairs and waited for a little over an hour, reading the backs of many games that I wanted to buy, but didn't. Not a single person came within that time. We went back upstairs and I asked, how would they be handling the promos for the event, to which his reply after a long pause was, "Uhh... those will be for tournaments." My thoughts were, what tournaments? you just said we have to run our own games if we wanted to play. Confused and tired of waiting, I told him that maybe I'd come back later and left. Needless to say, I didn't...

So, am I just being crazy, or was this poorly handled?

[jschild]

Sounds like your LGS was running it badly since they decided to hoard the promo's.

[Dad_Scaper]

Wow, that sucks.

When I asked at my FLGS, I was told the individual game shops are given some guidance on how to handle the promotional material but it's up to them how to distribute it.

Maybe call the owner back and ask about it? Offer to bring your Thunderstone & have your own "game day" there, and claim a promotional pack of Dragon Humanoids (and a trap, and a new Guardian, pretty cool stuff, all of it, particularly the Dragon Humanoids), as your reward?

Sounds like your FLGS just took no responsibility for the handling of the promotional material. Again, as I understood it from my guys, that's up to the shop, with AEG's suggestions.

The theme for the promotional cards seemed to be, as I recall...Dragon riders of various types. "Can't attack with class X. Sacrifice a member of class Y." Good art, good theme, and the Guardian looks like a real load; tougher than the Dragonspire guardians, which are the only other ones I've seen.

Good luck! Haven't gotten the DH's into a game yet, but they are really impressive looking. Up there with the dragons in challenge level.

[B:T:L Matt]

Sounds like your LGS was running it badly since they decided to hoard the promo's.

That's what it felt like to me...

Wow, that sucks.

When I asked at my FLGS, I was told the individual game shops are given some guidance on how to handle the promotional material but it's up to them how to distribute it.

Maybe call the owner back and ask about it? Offer to bring your Thunderstone & have your own "game day" there, and claim a promotional pack of Dragon Humanoids (and a trap, and a new Guardian, pretty cool stuff, all of it, particularly the Dragon Humanoids), as your reward?

Sounds like your FLGS just took no responsibility for the handling of the promotional material. Again, as I understood it from my guys, that's up to the shop, with AEG's suggestions.

The theme for the promotional cards seemed to be, as I recall...Dragon riders of various types. "Can't attack with class X. Sacrifice a member of class Y." Good art, good theme, and the Guardian looks like a real load; tougher than the Dragonspire guardians, which are the only other ones I've seen.

Good luck! Haven't gotten the DH's into a game yet, but they are really impressive looking. Up there with the dragons in challenge level.

I thought about stopping by some time this week to ask how did the event turn out and if the event didn't fly, I'd inquire about doing something for the promos.

I guess AEG will also sell the promos in the near future. That's always another option.

[Dad_Scaper]

... Or tracking down another LGS, maybe one that's F, for this item?

I bet nobody showed for the event, if the guy didn't know anything about it.

[jschild]

Question on promo cards, is the "For the Dwarves" Promo just the one Hero card?

[Dad_Scaper]

*chuckle* If a card with that name was in the packet, either I missed it or I want my (no) money back. :D

[jschild]

no, on eBay its called that but there is only one card shown, a hero called Clan Saergent

[B:T:L Matt]

... Or tracking down another LGS, maybe one that's F, for this item?

I bet nobody showed for the event, if the guy didn't know anything about it.

The promos were sent to stores that were Stronghold level 1 or higher members, and this was the only one that was close. Two other level 1 shops are three hours away and one hour away. So, you know how that goes, heh.

[Dad_Scaper]

If they're sitting on the cards, call the right guy (there's always one, right?) and try to set something up, if they'll let you.

Good luck.

There are three LGS' I frequent. Two of them are F. One of them is not. I believe it's worth it to work with the tools you have and I can imagine what it would be like if I only had the one I don't care for.

I understand, and again, good luck, and yes, that was a pun on "tools."

[B:T:L Matt]

no, on eBay its called that but there is only one card shown, a hero called Clan Saergent

jschild, For the Dwarf promo is available at BGG for $0.01 plus $4.99 S&H. It comes with the full set of level 1, 2, and 3 heroes. They are also a fun set to play with.

[jschild]

no, on eBay its called that but there is only one card shown, a hero called Clan Saergent

jschild, For the Dwarf promo is available at BGG for $0.01 plus $4.99 S&H. It comes with the full set of level 1, 2, and 3 heroes. They are also a fun set to play with.

So it's just the one hero though right (one card type, with 3 levels).

[B:T:L Matt]

no, on eBay its called that but there is only one card shown, a hero called Clan Saergent

jschild, For the Dwarf promo is available at BGG for $0.01 plus $4.99 S&H. It comes with the full set of level 1, 2, and 3 heroes. They are also a fun set to play with.

So it's just the one hero though right (one card type, with 3 levels).

My apologies, I misunderstood you. You are correct in that it is just one hero for the promo. The hero is your typical set...

x6 lvl 1 Clan Sergeant
x4 lvl 2 Clan Commander
x2 lvl 3 Clan Champion
x1 Clan Randomizer

[jschild]

Ok, advice time. I currently only have Thunderstone and Wrath of the Elementals.

What should be the next purchase

1. Doomgate Legion (which adds Mercenaries and Treasure)
2. Thornwood Seige (Which adds cards that attack the village)
3. Dragonspire (which adds a little bit of everything but is standalone as well)

Which one will give me the best bang for the buck considering the 2 sets I already have?

[B:T:L Matt]

I'm going to have to go with Dragonspire because it supplements so much of the entire game. The box itself can hold the game and all other sets sans Thornwood Siege. The XP cards get replaced with Thunderstone Tokens, and the dividers exist for the initial set and other previous sets. You also get the dungeon board, and revised basic village cards. There are also revised rules. Plus, I think you're getting more than the other smaller expansions in regard to content. That may be more bang for your buck...

[jschild]

Hmmm ok, one quick question then regarding Dragonspire...

Are the only cards that are the same just the 4 village (militia, torch, etc) and the curse cards?

[Dad_Scaper]

I only have the base game and Dragonspire.

Dragonspire adds a *huge* amount to the original. The overlap is negligible. And yes, those village cards are the only overlap.

[jschild]

I only have the base game and Dragonspire.

Dragonspire adds a *huge* amount to the original. The overlap is negligible. And yes, those village cards are the only overlap.

Cool - I'll guess I'll have to go with that next and then probably Thornwood because I just love the idea of the siege attacks on the village destroying cards.

[B:T:L Matt]

I only have the base game and Dragonspire.

Dragonspire adds a *huge* amount to the original. The overlap is negligible. And yes, those village cards are the only overlap.

Cool - I'll guess I'll have to go with that next and then probably Thornwood because I just love the idea of the siege attacks on the village destroying cards.

Even with the minor overlap on the basic sets, they at least changed the artwork, so to some miniscule degree, it is not completely the same, but that's neither here nor there I guess.

I also think the concept of the village getting attacked is awesome. Unfortunately my copy of Thornwood Siege is being held up by a preorder that comes out in July.

[Dad_Scaper]

I was in my FLGS again yesterday & they dug out a previous promo, Blade Trap, for me. I love that place (Family Game Store in Savage, Maryland, for those in the area).

I also found out a little bit more about this most recent promotion if you're still curious, Matt. Supposedly the accompanying material encouraged an "AEG Game Day" but didn't give any specifics or constructive or logistic support besides the cool new bitz for the respective games.

Next time we play I think we'll be using the Epic variant with the Tom Vasel modifications. BGG thread here (http://boardgamegeek.com/thread/614361/anybody-know-about-the-variant-created-by-richard/page/1).

[B:T:L Matt]

I also found out a little bit more about this most recent promotion if you're still curious, Matt. Supposedly the accompanying material encouraged an "AEG Game Day" but didn't give any specifics or constructive or logistic support besides the cool new bitz for the respective games.

I was aware that it was up to the gaming shops to do whatever they wanted for the promos, but I felt this case was different. The shop set up an AEG game day and no one really knew what the heck was going on.

I'm just waiting for AEG to release the promos on their website and I'll buy it there. I'll probably pick up the Nightfall promos and War of Honor promos as well since I also own Nightfall and War of Honor comes in the mail tomorrow.

[gamjuven]

So I have a debate. I am interested in playing Thunderstone. I love Dominion, and I love fantasy, so why not combine the two? It seems like a great game. But I was wondering what to buy first. Basically it is down to the original game vs. Dragonspire. They both are stand alone games as far as I know. So in your opinion, which one should I play? I know there are opinions about the art and global effects but neither of those will really factor in my decision. So if people don't mind giving me some opinions or advice, I would appreciate it. Thanks!

[Dad_Scaper]

Dragonspire comes with its own storage solution; the base game does not. Some of the stuff - Guardians, Traps, Treasures - that come with Dragonspire don't make a ton of sense without the context of the earlier expansions where those concepts were introduced, but they work as described.

Can't go wrong either way. If you plan on playing with the Launius/Vasel Epic Thunderstone variant, the storage solution matters less (but still matters).

:2cents:

[Matthias Maccabeus]

I've been with it since the beginning. I think the art is best with the first one, but as Dad said the storage, and the expansions (traps, tresures, etc) make me lean more towards Dragonspire.

[B:T:L Matt]

My vote goes with the others in Dragonspire being your first buy. You can't beat the storage and I prefer the card dividers and thunderstone experience tokens in dragonspire as well.

[jschild]

If you have good experience with deck-building games - get Dragonspire. If you are new to them, get Thunderstone.

Thunderstone is less complicated than the other, but lacks some of the variety as well.

[gamjuven]

Thanks for the input guys!

[Hahma]

I had started with Dragonspire first. As the others have mentioned, the storage is great and it has all the features of the earlier releases such as traps, treasures and Guardians. I enjoyed it so much, that less than a month after getting Dragonspire, I ordered the previous three releases, which all happen to fit in the Dragonspire box. Now with a 10lb box of cards, I have a ton of options for Heroes, Village and Monster cards. :D

Enjoy which ever one you get Gamjuven:)

[B:T:L Matt]

If anyone is interested to know, AEG now has their new promo cards available on their web store. The promos are a dollar each set...

[Matthias Maccabeus]

If anyone is interested to know, AEG now has their new promo cards available on their web store. The promos are a dollar each set...

I saw that. I ordered them a few days ago. I think with shipping it was only like $5.

[B:T:L Matt]

If anyone is interested to know, AEG now has their new promo cards available on their web store. The promos are a dollar each set...

I saw that. I ordered them a few days ago. I think with shipping it was only like $5.

I ordered the promos last night (I also picked up the Nightfall promos). Shipping for me was $5.91, so now I wait with excitement.

I'm still waiting on Thornwood Siege too (stupid Rune Age is holding it up on CSI).

[Matthias Maccabeus]

If anyone is interested to know, AEG now has their new promo cards available on their web store. The promos are a dollar each set...

I saw that. I ordered them a few days ago. I think with shipping it was only like $5.

I ordered the promos last night (I also picked up the Nightfall promos). Shipping for me was $5.91, so now I wait with excitement.

I'm still waiting on Thornwood Siege too (stupid Rune Age is holding it up on CSI).

I swear your like my long lost forgotten brother or some jazz like that. You buy like every game that I end up getting.

Rune Age is the game I'm most looking forward to so far this year!!

Man too bad we live on opposite sides of the US. Otherwise we could save a lot of money by each only having to buy half the games we want!

[B:T:L Matt]

If anyone is interested to know, AEG now has their new promo cards available on their web store. The promos are a dollar each set...

I saw that. I ordered them a few days ago. I think with shipping it was only like $5.

I ordered the promos last night (I also picked up the Nightfall promos). Shipping for me was $5.91, so now I wait with excitement.

I'm still waiting on Thornwood Siege too (stupid Rune Age is holding it up on CSI).

I swear your like my long lost forgotten brother or some jazz like that. You buy like every game that I end up getting.

Rune Age is the game I'm most looking forward to so far this year!!

Man too bad we live on opposite sides of the US. Otherwise we could save a lot of money by each only having to buy half the games we want!

Must be because we share similar first names, heh. Not only would we save a boat-load of money if we lived closer, but we'd also probably have some sweet game nights!

[xraine69]

If anyone is interested to know, AEG now has their new promo cards available on their web store. The promos are a dollar each set...

I saw that. I ordered them a few days ago. I think with shipping it was only like $5.

I ordered the promos last night (I also picked up the Nightfall promos). Shipping for me was $5.91, so now I wait with excitement.

I'm still waiting on Thornwood Siege too (stupid Rune Age is holding it up on CSI).

I swear your like my long lost forgotten brother or some jazz like that. You buy like every game that I end up getting.

Rune Age is the game I'm most looking forward to so far this year!!

Man too bad we live on opposite sides of the US. Otherwise we could save a lot of money by each only having to buy half the games we want!

Must be because we share similar first names, heh. Not only would we save a boat-load of money if we lived closer, but we'd also probably have some sweet game nights!
I now pronounce you....:p

[Matthias Maccabeus]

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/2011/08/15/heart-of-doom/

[B:T:L Matt]

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/2011/08/15/heart-of-doom/

This has me excited...

Do you suppose this will put closure on the game series or do you think they'll keep the game running with a new approach in the story?

[Hahma]

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/2011/08/15/heart-of-doom/

This has me excited...

Do you suppose this will put closure on the game series or do you think they'll keep the game running with a new approach in the story?

I agree, this looks really cool.

If it's closure, hopefully it's just to this particular story line and come up with something different. Though, if is the end of the series all together, there's enough to keep me busy for a long time. They can always use the same mechanic for different genres perhaps.

[xraine69]

I have wound up with a new shrink wrapped copy of Thornwood siege. If any one is interested, I am selling it for $18 +shipping. Anyone intersted, PM me. Thanks.

[B:T:L Matt]

Thought I'd give all the Thunderstone players a heads up about a Werewolf promo pack for sale on Alderac.com for a measly dollar.

It's a monster set of werewolves for the dungeon...

[B:T:L Matt]

Thought you guys would like to know there's a brand new Thunderstone coming out in March called, Thunderstone Advance. Its suppose to have new play mechanics and ways of leveling up and using cards. Check out the latest article on Alderac's site.

[Dad_Scaper]

Thought I'd give all the Thunderstone players a heads up about a Werewolf promo pack for sale on Alderac.com for a measly dollar.

It's a monster set of werewolves for the dungeon...

I picked it up at my FLGS, thanks for the tip.

Off to the Alderac site...

[Onacara]

First looks at Thunderstone Advanced...

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/2012/01/10/get-down-to-basics/

[B:T:L Matt]

First looks at Thunderstone Advanced...

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/2012/01/10/get-down-to-basics/

The cards look nice... I also like the better use of icons such as the bag of coins for cost, and the iron rations for strength. I'm excited to see how it plays...

[Onacara]

Another update...(well there have been a few since the last one i posted but this one shows the new double sided gameboard

http://www.alderac.com/thunderstone/2012/01/25/509/

[GamerHusband]

I've got a great Thunderstone story. I was playing the game with my wife when we noticed we were missing a level 3 dwarf hero card. I went to AEG's website to see if I could have a replacement mailed to me, when I noticed the companies headquarters were 2 miles from my house!!! The next day I went to AEG in person and picked up my missing card. They also hooked me up with all the promos and gave me a tour of the place. Great company. :D

[Hahma]

That's awesome GH :D

I really enjoy Thunderstone and have heard that AEG is a top notch company.

[GamerHusband]

This game keeps getting better. I know have added Wrath of the Elements, Doomgate Legion, and Dragonspire to my base set. It amazing how different every game plays. Excluding Heroscape, this game is now my favorite in my collection.

Last week me and my math professor friend calculated how may different set up combos were possible with just the first 3 expansions. The number turns out to be 2.64 X 10^15 different set ups. Its safe to say you will never play the same game twice.

[Onacara]

Anyone know how to play Thunderstone and Nightfall and want to go to GenCon?

You must be 21 or older.

Shoot me an email at thecardboardjungle@gmail.com for details.

Serious inquiries only