Stats:
No. of players: 1-5
Amount of time to play: 45-60 min
Age requirements: 12+
Set-up time: 10 min

Thunderstone Dragonspire Rules Description:

Dragonspire is both the third expansion for Thunderstone and a stand-alone game. It replaces some of the original components and adds new elements to gameplay.

First I’ll talk about the upgraded components. XP cards have been replaced with plastic Thunderstone-shaped tokens. The base cards (Dagger, Iron Rations, Militia and Torch) have received a facelift. Fans are split about if the new artwork is better.

Even the back of the randomizer cards have been changed. Now they have different backs from the normal cards and are colored based on card type.

You also get a board for the dungeon deck and hall. This can be helpful for new players as the light/attack penalty is printed right there. It even has a space for guardians.

AEG continues to grow the Thunderstone system. There are 18 new village cards, 11 new heroes, and 8 new types of monsters. The heroes continue to add subtle differences to the game and Dragonspire includes a fighter that can attain level four. The villager card, Scout, can help you get the right cards in your hand.

Dragonspire also contains seven Settings. These are global effects that change the rules for that game. Like past additions (traps, treasures and guardians) they are added when you deal the randomizer card during setup. One simply adds a fourth monster class while another gives you a disease after any battle.

A Quick Review of Thunderstone Dragonspire:

Dragonspire is kinda unique since it is a stand-alone game as well as an expansion to Thunderstone. This makes it a good jump in point for those considering the game. It also adds more interesting wrinkles for those who already own the base game.

The new artwork is fine. The tokens for XP are a nice touch. Just like the board. These all add a little to the game and are nice to have.

The rules are not very good though. They repeat themselves and for those new to the game they will be confusing.

The best new addition is the Settings. They add even more flavor and variety to Thunderstone. I am still impressed with the variety that has been added to this game without the additions feeling repetitive.

If you are a fan of Thunderstone or want to give it a try Dragonspire is definitely worth adding to your collection.

Score and synopsis: (Click here for an explanation of these review categories.)
Strategy 3 out of 6
Luck 4 out of 6
Player Interaction 3 out of 6
Replay Value 5 out of 6
Complexity 4 out of 6
Fun 5 out of 6
Overall 4 out of 6