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Short Games (< 30 min)2 Players Games Light Playstyle Games

Novel-based

Introduction to Novel-based Board Games

When approaching a novel-based board game, players should prepare for an experience that weaves the narrative, characters, and ambiance of a literary work into the framework of a game. This type of game offers a unique form of storytelling where players' choices and actions can influence the outcome of the story to varying degrees.

Narrative Emphasis

The cornerstone of a novel-based board game is its narrative. This overarching storyline provides not just the backdrop but often the main driver of gameplay. Players will encounter a series of scenarios or chapters that correspond to events or climaxes from the novel. Expect to make decisions that have both immediate and long-term consequences, reflecting the thematic choices presented in the book.

Characterization and Role-playing

Inhabiting a role from the novel, players will enact the motives and aspirations of their characters. This might involve completing personal objectives or contributing to a collective narrative goal. The depth of role-playing can vary, but the intent is to allow players to experience the growth and development of these characters firsthand, just as in the novel.

Immersion Through Setting

The game's setting seeks to accurately capture the locations and atmosphere described in the book. This often involves art and design elements meticulously crafted to evoke the same imagery as the novel's setting. The physical components, visual design, and even the rulebook narrative all serve to transport players into the story's world.

Game Mechanics

The mechanics of a novel-based game are tailored to reflect the theme, actions, and moral quandaries of the original story. They often aim to simulate the challenges the characters face, whether through resource management, strategic planning, puzzles, or social deduction. Mechanics can vary widely, from simple to complex, depending on the intended audience and the complexity of the source material.

Interaction and Player Dynamics

Player dynamics in novel-based board games are designed to mimic the relationships and interactions within the story. This might include forming alliances, competing for resources, or solving problems together. The type of interaction is generally an extension of the novel’s own narrative, whether that means players work together in a cooperative game to defeat a common foe or engage in fierce competition to emerge victorious.

Experiencing the Story

In novel-based board games, the story is experienced actively rather than passively. Players influence the game world and shape the story’s progression. Each playthrough can unfold differently, granting a level of agency that may lead to alternate endings or divergent paths from the book's original narrative.

Conclusion

By playing a novel-based board game, one steps into a literary world, taking on a character's mantle and endeavoring to leave their mark on a beloved story. It is a confluence of traditional gameplay elements with the richness of literary storytelling, appealing to both game enthusiasts and fans of the source material. Each play session promises an immersive adventure that celebrates the original novel while offering a fresh, interactive experience.

Novel-based

Introduction to Novel-based Board Games

Narrative Emphasis

Characterization and Role-playing

Immersion Through Setting

Game Mechanics

Interaction and Player Dynamics

Experiencing the Story

Conclusion

Novel-based themed games designed by Chris Rowlands

Novel-based themed games illustrated by Matt Paquette & Co.

Novel-based themed Variable Player Powers games

Novel-based themed games published by ADC Blackfire Entertainment

Novel-based themed games published by Pegasus Spiele

Novel-based themed games published by Heidelberger Spieleverlag

Novel-based themed games published by USAOpoly

Novel-based themed Family Game

Novel-based themed games designed by Peter Olotka

Novel-based themed Open Drafting games

Novel-based themed games published by Devir

Horror and Novel-based themed games

Medieval and Novel-based themed games

Novel-based themed Strategy Game

Novel-based themed games illustrated by Vincent Dutrait

Novel-based themed games designed by Rudiger Dron

Journey to the Center of the Earth

Novel-based themed games designed by Francesco Nepitello

Novel-based themed Narrative Choice / Paragraph games

Novel-based themed games published by ThunderGryph Games

Hats

Novel-based themed Area Majority / Influence games

Novel-based themed games published by Sophisticated Games

Lord of the Rings: Sauron Expansion

Novel-based themed games published by Ares Games

War of the Ring - The Card Game

Novel-based themed games published by White Goblin Games

Novel-based themed Scenario / Mission / Campaign Game games

Novel-based themed games published by FryxGames

Terraforming Mars - Ares Expedition: Ares Expedition - Discovery, Foundations, Crisis (Kickstarter Edition)

Novel-based themed games designed by Wolf Hoermann

Scotland Yard: Sherlock Holmes Edition

Novel-based themed games illustrated by Bjarne Hansen

Game of Thrones, A: Storm of Swords, A