When Ravenloft was expanded into a full setting beyond Barovia, my sister Stacy and I eagerly consumed the early tie-in novels. I’ve run multiple campaigns set in the Domains of Dread-including converting the original adventure to D&D 5th Edition only to learn an official product would soon do the same thing. Like everyone else under his thrall, I can never truly escape. And while my gaming journeys have taken me far and wide, every so often I find my way back to the shadows of the vampire lord’s castle. I experienced Ravenloft first as a player, then ran it as a Dungeon Master to the delighted horror of my players. It was D&D’s answer to Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and while the similarities are intentional I believe Strahd has emerged as his own distinct and darkly fascinating character. Long before I had the honor to know and work with Tracy and Laura Hickman, I fell in love with their gothic horror addition to Dungeons & Dragons, an adventure module for 1st Edition titled Ravenloft. Anyone may enter his domain, but leaving is another matter entirely … But beware! Evil lurks behind every corner, every door and wall and the Vampire Lord of the Castle stirs in his sleep.In the mist-shrouded land of Barovia, the ancient vampire Strahd von Zarovich rules from within the haunted stone halls of Castle Ravenloft. You actually feel as if you're in Strahd's castle, descending the dark deep dungeons as you and your party of heroes strive to complete your quest. I enjoy games that a highly thematic and Ravenloft delivers. I received this beauty of a game as a birthday gift from my beauty of a wife and after about 11 plays in, is on my list as one of the most re-playable & enjoyable games I own. Having played the more traditional D&D way back in my yonder years, the feels and nostalgia of the classes, spells, races and monsters were all present in this immersive co-op board game, coupled with hints of dungeon claustrophobia and sheer awesomeness. That's probably the best way to describe our first play through of Dungeons & Dragons: Castle Ravenloft the Boardgame.
When a new dungeon tile is revealed, there is typically an encounter of some sort, and new monsters to fight are added. On their turn, each player can explore further into the dungeon (turn over new tiles), move through the already explored parts of the dungeon, and fight monsters. Designed for 1-5 players, this boardgame features multiple scenarios, challenging quests, and cooperative gameplay.Įach player selects a hero a ranger, rogue, warrior, cleric, or wizard. The master of Ravenloft is having guests for dinner – and you are invited!Įvil lurks in the towers and dungeons of Castle Ravenloft, and only heroes of exceptional bravery can survive the horrors within. Castle Ravenloft Boardgame by Bill Slavicsek, Mike Mearls and Peter Lee