Quick answer
The Dwellings of Eldervale 2nd Edition Standard Edition is a fantasy worker placement board game for 1-5 players, ages 14+, with a playtime of 60-150 minutes. This guide answers the most common questions about setup, gameplay, and what's in the box.
What's in the Standard Edition box?
The Standard Edition includes all core game components needed to play Dwellings of Eldervale. You get the game board, player boards, miniatures, cards, tokens, and dice. Note that it does not include the Upgrade Kit or any expansions, which are sold separately. The 2nd Edition refines rules and component quality compared to the first printing.
How does worker placement work in Dwellings of Eldervale?
Worker placement is the central mechanism. On your turn, you place one of your workers on an available action space on the board. Each space grants a specific action, such as gathering resources, recruiting units, or battling monsters. Once a space is occupied, other players cannot use it that round. This creates strategic competition for the most valuable actions.
What is area control and how does it fit in?
Area control is combined with worker placement. When you place a worker, you also deploy a unit (like a Dragon, Wizard, or Warrior) to a region on the board. Controlling regions at scoring times earns you victory points. You must balance placing workers for immediate actions and positioning units for long-term area control.
How does engine building work?
Engine building happens as you acquire cards, build dwellings, and unlock abilities. Each card or dwelling can provide ongoing benefits, such as extra resources, combat bonuses, or new worker types. Over the game, you create a personalized combination that becomes more powerful each turn. The challenge is adapting your engine to the available actions and opponents' moves.
What are the beasts and how do you fight them?
Giant monsters roam the board. You can fight them by committing units and rolling dice. Defeating a beast grants victory points and sometimes a special reward. Beasts also affect area control because they occupy regions until defeated. Fighting too early can leave you vulnerable, while waiting may let an opponent claim the prize.
How long does a typical game take?
A game lasts 60-150 minutes depending on player count and experience. With 5 players, expect closer to the upper end. First games will be longer as everyone learns the rules. The 2nd Edition streamlines some phases to keep playtime manageable.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play solo?
Yes, the Standard Edition includes a solo mode. You play against an automated opponent that follows simple rules. The solo rules are explained in the rulebook.
Do I need the Upgrade Kit?
No, the Standard Edition is a complete game. The Upgrade Kit adds premium components like metal coins and upgraded miniatures, but is not required to play.
Is this edition compatible with expansions?
Yes, the 2nd Edition Standard Edition is compatible with future expansions. Check the publisher's website for the latest expansion announcements. If you plan to expand later, keep the box and insert organized to accommodate new components.
What's the difference between Standard and Deluxe?
The Standard Edition contains all gameplay content. The Deluxe Edition (if available) includes upgraded components and possibly extra miniatures. The Standard Edition is the best value if you prioritize gameplay over component bling.
How do I set up the board?
Place the main board in the center. Each player takes a player board, matching worker set, and starting units. Shuffle the card decks and place tokens and dice nearby. The rulebook provides a detailed setup diagram. Watch a setup video on the publisher's channel if you're a visual learner.
Product facts
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Dwellings of Eldervale 2nd Edition: Standard: Number of Players: 1-5, Ages: 14+, Time to Play: 60-150 Minutes This tells you the game supports solo play and groups up to five, but the 60-150 minute range means you should set aside a solid evening for a full game.
Dwellings of Eldervale 2nd Edition: Standard