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Cthulhu: Death May Die box image

Cthulhu: Death May Die

Cthulhu: Death May Die is a cooperative board game where players take on the roles of investigators battling against Lovecraftian monsters to prevent the summoning of an elder god. The game features variable player powers and a modular board.

8.18 / 10
BGG Rating
14+
age
2019
published year
1 - 5
player count
1 - 4
Recommended player count
90 - 120 mins
play time

How Complex is Cthulhu: Death May Die?

2.48 / 5

Cthulhu: Death May Die has a moderate complexity level, with a few rules to learn, but the game's depth and strategy require some experience to master.

How much Luck is involved in the gameplay of Cthulhu: Death May Die?

2.5 / 5

Luck plays a moderate role in the game, with dice rolls and card draws determining some outcomes, but player strategy and decision-making have a greater impact on success.

How much Player Interaction does Cthulhu: Death May Die offer?

4.5 / 5

The game heavily relies on player interaction as it is a cooperative game. Players must work together to strategize, share resources, and coordinate actions to defeat the monsters and prevent the elder god's summoning.

How much Replayability does Cthulhu: Death May Die offer?

4 / 5

The game offers high replayability due to the modular board, variable player powers, and multiple scenarios with different objectives and monsters, providing a different experience each time.

Why you should play Cthulhu: Death May Die

Immersive Theme

Cthulhu: Death May Die is a cooperative board game that immerses players in the world of H.P. Lovecraft's Cthulhu Mythos. The game's theme is dark and ominous, with players taking on the roles of investigators battling against the forces of evil.

High Replayability

The game features a modular board, randomized events, and multiple scenarios, ensuring that each playthrough is unique and offers a different challenge.

Strategic Gameplay

The game requires players to work together to plan their moves and coordinate their actions. Each investigator has unique abilities and strengths, and players must use them effectively to overcome the game's challenges.

Miniature Figures

The game features highly detailed miniature figures of investigators, monsters, and bosses, adding to the game's immersive experience.

Easy to Learn

Despite its complex theme and strategic gameplay, Cthulhu: Death May Die is easy to learn and can be played by both experienced and novice players.

Cooperative Gameplay

The game is designed to be played cooperatively, with players working together to achieve a common goal. This makes it a great game for groups of friends or family members.

Great Artwork

The game features stunning artwork that captures the dark and ominous atmosphere of the Cthulhu Mythos. The artwork adds to the game's immersive experience and makes it a joy to play.

Why you should avoid Cthulhu: Death May Die

Dark Theme

While the game's dark and ominous theme is a draw for some players, it may not be suitable for all audiences. The game features depictions of violence, gore, and horror that may be disturbing to some players.

Complexity

While the game is easy to learn, it can be complex to master. The game requires strategic planning and coordination between players, which may be overwhelming for some players.

High Difficulty

The game is designed to be challenging, and players may find it difficult to win even on the easiest difficulty level. This may be frustrating for some players who prefer games with a lower level of difficulty.

Cost

The game is relatively expensive compared to other board games on the market, which may be a deterrent for some players.

Time Commitment

The game can take several hours to play, which may not be suitable for players who prefer shorter games or who have limited time to play.

Where to find the Rules of Cthulhu: Death May Die

You can find the community-driven rules summary, player aid, etc., in the Cthulhu: Death May Die files section on the BoardGameGeek website. You need an account on BGG to download files.

Beginner Strategies for Cthulhu: Death May Die

These strategies are for players who have either not played or played one or two games of Cthulhu: Death May Die.

Choose your investigators wisely

Each investigator has unique abilities and strengths, so choose a combination of investigators that complement each other's skills. For example, if one investigator is good at combat, choose another who is good at investigation or support.

Manage your stress

Stress is a key mechanic in the game, and if your stress level gets too high, you'll suffer penalties. Try to manage your stress by taking actions that reduce it, such as resting or using items that lower stress.

Prioritize objectives

Each scenario has specific objectives that you need to complete to win. Make sure you prioritize these objectives and focus on completing them as quickly as possible.

Use your special abilities

Each investigator has special abilities that can be used to help you in the game. Make sure you use these abilities strategically to gain an advantage.

Be prepared for combat

Combat is a big part of the game, so make sure you have weapons and items that can help you in battle. Plan ahead and make sure you have the right tools for the job.

Work together

Cthulhu: Death May Die is a cooperative game, so make sure you work together with your fellow investigators. Communicate and coordinate your actions to maximize your chances of success.

Be ready for the unexpected

The game is full of surprises, so be ready for unexpected events and twists. Stay flexible and adapt to changing circumstances to stay ahead of the game.

Advanced Strategies for Cthulhu: Death May Die

Experiment with different investigators

Once you've played the game a few times, try experimenting with different combinations of investigators. This will help you discover new synergies and strategies that you may not have considered before.

Focus on the big picture

As you become more familiar with the game, try to focus on the big picture rather than just the immediate objectives. Think about how your actions will impact the overall game state and plan accordingly.

Use the environment to your advantage

The game's environments can be used to your advantage if you know how to manipulate them. For example, you can use fire to block off areas or use water to slow down enemies.

Be strategic with your stress

Stress is a key mechanic in the game, and as you become more experienced, you'll learn how to manage it more effectively. Be strategic with your stress management, using it to your advantage when you can.

Plan for the endgame

Each scenario has a final boss that you'll need to defeat to win. As you become more experienced, start planning for the endgame earlier in the scenario so that you're better prepared when the boss appears.

Use the Mythos deck to your advantage

The Mythos deck can be unpredictable, but it can also be used to your advantage if you know how to manipulate it. Try to anticipate what cards might come up and plan accordingly.

Don't be afraid to take risks

As you become more experienced, don't be afraid to take risks and try new strategies. Sometimes the best way to learn is by making mistakes and adjusting your approach accordingly.

Mechanics

Action Points
Variable Player Powers
Cooperative Game
Role Playing
Area Movement
Dice Rolling
Solo / Solitaire Game
Scenario / Mission / Campaign Game

Categories

Fantasy
Horror
Fighting
Miniatures
Novel-based