Today we’re diving into “A Gest of Robin Hood” by GMT Games. This two-player strategy game brings the legendary tale of Robin Hood to life, and we’re here to break it down for you – what it is, what’s good, what’s bad, and if you should pick it up. Let’s get into it.
What It Is
“A Gest of Robin Hood” is a two-player asymmetric strategy game from GMT Games that immerses you in the world of Robin Hood. One player takes on the role of Robin Hood and his Merry Men, while the other steps into the boots of the Sheriff of Nottingham. The game uses a modified version of GMT’s COIN (Counter-Insurgency) system, making it an excellent introduction to wargaming for newcomers while still offering plenty of depth for seasoned players. The game focuses on the legendary struggle between justice and order, with each player striving to achieve their own goals on a beautifully illustrated map of Nottinghamshire.
Gameplay Mechanics
“A Gest of Robin Hood” revolves around a tug-of-war on the Justice/Order track, with Robin Hood fighting for justice and the Sheriff aiming to maintain order. The gameplay is driven by a series of tough decisions, particularly around resource management and strategic planning. One key aspect of the game is the economic pressure both players face. As the Sheriff, your primary source of funds comes from taxing the local populace, but over-taxation can lead to revolts, which require you to leave troops behind to maintain order. This creates a delicate balance where you must weigh the need for immediate resources against the long-term stability of your territories.
The game setup begins with each player selecting a role, either Robin Hood or the Sheriff, and claiming the corresponding player board. The backs of these boards provide reminders for setup and strategy tips. Players then gather the specific pieces associated with their role, such as henchmen and carriage tokens for the Sheriff, and Robin Hood along with his merry men and camp markers for Robin Hood. It’s crucial to ensure that players only take the exact number of pieces indicated on their boards, with extras remaining in the box.
Following setup instructions, each player positions some of their pieces on the main board. The Sheriff starts with henchmen placed in various locations, such as Nottingham, while Robin Hood begins with a camp in Shywood Forest and distributes his merry men across different spaces. The Robin Hood player’s pieces are placed face down, representing them hiding from the Sheriff, while the Sheriff’s henchmen are always visible. Players use screens to keep their piece positions and decisions secret from each other.
Next, the players place various tokens and markers on the board, such as the Royal Inspection token and the Royal favor piece, which track game progress and conditions for victory. They also separate the game’s cards into different decks, setting aside specific event and traveler cards while shuffling others into the main event deck. This deck will be used throughout the game to determine the flow of events and player actions.
The game itself is played over a series of rounds, each beginning with the reveal of an event card. This card may prompt the Sheriff to move carriage tokens or trigger other effects. Players then take turns according to the initiative track, choosing actions or passing to collect Shillings. The choice of actions not only affects the current round but also sets up the turn order and available actions for the next round.
The hidden movement system is a standout mechanic. Robin Hood’s location is concealed among his Merry Men, adding a layer of tension and uncertainty to the Sheriff’s pursuit. Meanwhile, the Sheriff’s carriages, which may contain valuable loot or hidden henchmen, create exciting moments of risk and reward for Robin Hood’s daring robbery attempts. Timing and positioning are crucial here, as the Sheriff needs to carefully plan the movement of carriages to maximize profit, while Robin Hood looks for the perfect moment to strike.
Event cards have two text boxes, one typically favoring Robin Hood and the other the Sheriff. Players can choose which effect to resolve during their turn. Events can have powerful effects, such as replacing a Sheriff’s henchman with one of Robin Hood’s merry men. If a player lacks the resources to resolve an event, they may pass to collect Shillings instead, blocking the other player from taking the event.
Throughout the game, actions taken by the players will move the token on the Royal favor track, which ultimately determines the winner. If the token is in the Justice half of the track at the end of the game, Robin Hood wins; if it’s in the Order half, the Sheriff wins. The game can also end early if the token reaches one of the extreme ends of the track, granting an instant victory to the corresponding player.
In summary, the game of Robin Hood and the Sheriff involves strategic placement, hidden movements, and the careful management of resources and actions. Players will need to outmaneuver each other, using their knowledge of the board and the event deck to shift the balance of power in Nottinghamshire, ultimately striving to either uphold order as the Sheriff or incite rebellion as Robin Hood.
The Components
Visually, “A Gest of Robin Hood” is stunning. The game features a beautifully illustrated map of Nottinghamshire, capturing the lush forests and medieval villages of the era. The attention to detail is remarkable, with the map artistically blending vibrant colors and subtle embellishments, such as faded fresco scenes that give the board an authentic, aged look.
The components are high quality and functional. The game includes large tarot-sized cards adorned with medieval-style artwork, enhancing the thematic immersion. The game also includes classic wooden pieces, custom teal-colored dice exclusive to Robin Hood, and smaller boards that keep the game space manageable. The compact design of the 22″ x 17″ board is particularly noteworthy – it’s visually striking without overwhelming your table space.
Special shoutouts to the designers and artists behind this production: Fred Serval, the up-and-coming designer known for his work on “Unfinished Business” and “A Very Civil Whist,” and Joe Dewhurst, who has been instrumental in developing new COIN games. The artwork was a collaborative effort involving Chu, Robert Altbauer, and Terry Leeds – each contributing to what might be GMT’s most visually appealing release to date.
The Good
First off, let’s talk about theme. “A Gest of Robin Hood” excels at creating an immersive experience that captures the essence of the Robin Hood legend. The game’s mechanics blend seamlessly with its historical setting, making you feel like you’re truly a part of the story.
The game’s accessibility is another major plus. While it uses a modified COIN system, which is typically associated with more complex wargames, “A Gest of Robin Hood” is designed to be approachable for players who are new to the genre. It strikes a perfect balance between ease of learning and strategic depth, making it a great choice whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out.
The hidden movement mechanic is also a standout feature, adding layers of strategy and tension to each game. The Sheriff’s role isn’t just about pursuit; it involves a complex strategy of positioning carriages and managing resources, while Robin Hood’s player must carefully plan their moves to outwit the law. The dynamic between these roles is what really drives the game, creating a rich, tactical experience.
Additionally, the game’s pacing is worth mentioning. Despite its depth, “A Gest of Robin Hood” plays out in a tight 90 minutes, making it an intense and engaging experience without overstaying its welcome. For experienced players, it’s even possible to finish a game in around an hour, once you’re familiar with the cards and strategies.
The Bad
While “A Gest of Robin Hood” has a lot going for it, it’s not without its challenges. One potential drawback is that the asymmetric nature of the game might lead to a learning curve for some players, particularly those less familiar with wargames. The Sheriff and Robin Hood play very differently, and mastering the strategies for both sides can take time.
Another point to consider is the reliance on the event and Traveler decks. While they add thematic depth and variability, they can also introduce a level of randomness that might not appeal to all players. If you’re someone who prefers more predictable and controlled gameplay, this could be a minor downside.
Finally, as a two-player game, “A Gest of Robin Hood” is somewhat niche. If you’re looking for a game to play with larger groups, this isn’t it. However, for those who enjoy intense, head-to-head strategic battles, it’s a fantastic option.
The Verdict
So, should you buy “A Gest of Robin Hood”? If you’re a fan of the Robin Hood legend, love asymmetric gameplay, or are looking for a well-crafted two-player strategy game, the answer is a resounding yes. The game is beautifully presented, thematically rich, and offers a unique blend of accessibility and depth.
For wargaming enthusiasts, this is a must-have in your collection. The modified COIN system provides a fresh take on the genre, and the hidden movement mechanic adds a layer of excitement that keeps each game dynamic and engaging.
However, if you’re not into asymmetric games or prefer playing with larger groups, this might not be the best fit for you. The reliance on event cards can also introduce a bit of unpredictability that might not suit everyone’s taste.
Final Thoughts
As someone who’s relatively new to coin games but has enjoyed them so far, I can confidently say that this one is a winner. The game’s aesthetic is one of its strongest points—it’s arguably one of the most visually stunning GMT productions I’ve encountered. The map and artwork are beautifully designed, adding a rich, immersive layer to the gameplay experience.
The core of A Gest of Robin Hood is its intriguing asymmetry. One player takes on the role of Robin Hood, striving to spread rebellion and achieve justice, while the other player becomes the Sheriff of Nottingham, working to maintain order and capture Robin Hood. This dynamic creates a tense tug-of-war that is both engaging and rewarding. The dual objectives—Robin Hood’s quest for justice and the Sheriff’s pursuit of order—are reflected in the game’s mechanics, making each decision significant and impactful.
The gameplay itself is a blend of strategic depth and exciting uncertainty. The coin mechanics allow for a range of actions, from robbing travelers and carriages as Robin Hood to deploying guards and managing parishes as the Sheriff. This creates a rich tactical environment where every move can shift the balance of power. The event cards, which add a layer of unpredictability, play a crucial role in keeping the game fresh and dynamic. They introduce random elements that can either aid or hinder both sides, adding a layer of strategy and risk management that keeps each session interesting.
One of the standout features of the game is the risk-reward system inherent in the action choices. Opting for a powerful action might give you an immediate advantage but can leave you at a disadvantage in subsequent turns. This balancing act between immediate gains and long-term strategy is a hallmark of the game and is handled exceptionally well. It forces players to think carefully about their moves and adapt their strategies on the fly.
The game is not without its complexities, particularly in terms of rules and mechanics, which can initially feel a bit fiddly. However, once you get past the learning curve, the game’s strategic depth and narrative elements make it highly engaging. The various actions available to each player, whether it’s recruiting new merry men or deploying guards, are well-designed and contribute meaningfully to the overall strategy.
In conclusion, A Gest of Robin Hood is a fantastic game that blends beautiful design with deep strategic gameplay. It excels in creating an immersive experience where each side has distinct goals and challenges. If you enjoy coin games and are looking for something that combines rich thematic elements with intricate mechanics, this game should definitely be on your radar. It’s a title that has quickly become one of my favorites and a strong contender for top game of the year honors.
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