Argent: The Neutrally Balanced Arrangement of Business

Couldn't help it. Name is so stupid.

Decided to split out the Argent thread from a Barnestorming thread. Just got the game and read through the rules---first impression is that the game is dead fucking simple but the rules are like 30 pages long, which is actually the kind of AT game that I think works best. Super excited to play. Does mean that the game has that "30 cards on the table that say unique things" quality that's a real turnoff for non-hardcore types.

Also, what the fuck kind of dumbshit insert is in this game? It fits like none of the unbowed components but fits boxed components perfectly...?

Anyway, wanted a discussion thread for the game: any strategy tips? First game advice?

The title should have been Argent University or just Argent. I don't know what they were thinking on that.

The rules are really simple, the chrome-y stuff adds some bulk but it's all totally logical- once you know what the shadow spaces are in terms of the narrative, everything that affects them makes sense. There's no doubt about the amount of text/Euroglyphics on the table...but after a couple of games they're easy enough.

Do use the starter setups- they help with the first game learning curve by keeping effects/abilities straightforward. Use A sides of everything until you are comfortable with the system.

Strategy-wise, what I had to contend with was players not understanding how aggro this game is compared to virtually all other WP designs. You're never safe, and you have to be able to adapt to having your dudes zapped out of their slots. Also keep in mind the order that the rooms resolve- like in other WP games (Caylus for example), that order often sets up some routes to consider for per-turn strategies.

Also, selecting your initial mages is a big deal. Because they will determine which abilities you can use during the placement stage. Don't take any red guys, you can't blast somebody out of a spot unless you have a spell or other effect.

LOTS to explore.

I'll also suggest using the starter setups. This isn't one of those cases in which you'll feel like you're missing out on some bigger thing the game is capable of doing.

Michael Barnes wrote: The title should have been Harry Potter: Welcome to Hogwarts. I don't know what they were thinking on that.

Fixed that for you.

Also, you guys should play Pixel Tactics, another game by these guys. OUTSTANDING little card game. $10 or so on Amazon.

Also very heavy on unique card text.

Is it worth getting the expansions with the base game, or is it really just more of the same that you won't need unless you've played the game a ton and need some variety?

airmarkus wrote: Is it worth getting the expansions with the base game, or is it really just more of the same that you won't need unless you've played the game a ton and need some variety?

For me, the main perk of the expansion is the orange mage. When placed, they let you gain research, so if you're struggling to get enough research on your spell cards — which really comes down to what sort of university you're playing with — then this can be a boon. Otherwise, the expansion mostly just pumps up the player count to six and adds more to each of the game decks.

I'm stoked that so many people here are getting into Argent. It was my game of the year for 2014.

From my read of the rules, you probably shouldn't play with 6 anyway.

I got the expansion and it is certainly not necessary. But from a philosophy of game perspective, it's fun---the whole point of the base game is "here's your totally unique university, end game goal, and player setup. Go to town." Adding more strange kit to that toolbox isn't a bad thing, but it's hardly vital.

Y'all buttheads make me want to buy this game now. I hope you're happy.

San Il Defanso wrote: Y'all buttheads make me want to buy this game now. I hope you're happy.

I'm with you man. When I was at the Dice Tower con this year this guy was raving about the game so I looked into it and thought I'd get it. I had kind of forgotten about it since, but now I'm back to trying to resist the "must have it" compulsion. I don't think my odds of success are very high.

Don't construe me as saying "go buy this!" I haven't played the fucking thing yet... soon hopefully.

Part of the appeal of the game is the faux-Hogwarts' setting, so anything that enhances that is a benefit. I still haven't played with the expansion stuff, but looking it over it's the kind of thing that isn't essential...but you will want it.

Hang on, make way for the Editor in Chief...

"IF you don't take any red guys..."