Quick Answer
The Dangerous Business expansion for Merchants of Magick replaces sponsored Adventurer cards with Adventurer boards, letting you craft items to boost your Adventurer's battle prowess against monsters at the gates. It's a worthwhile addition if you want more strategic depth and a stronger combat focus.
What Dangerous Business Changes
The core of the expansion is the shift from sponsored Adventurer cards to Adventurer boards. This change gives each Merchant a more tangible, upgradeable presence on the table. As you craft new items, your Adventurer's prowess in battle increases, which directly ties your crafting choices to combat effectiveness.
This means every item you decide to craft isn't just about economy or points—it's about preparing for the monster threat. The expansion adds a layer of tension and planning that wasn't in the base game, making each crafting decision more meaningful.
Trade-Offs to Consider
The increased combat focus may not appeal to players who prefer the pure economic engine of the base game. The Adventurer boards add complexity, and if your group is new to Merchants of Magick, it might be better to master the base mechanics first.
Also, the expansion assumes you have a group that enjoys cooperative or semi-cooperative elements, as everyone is working to fend off the horde together. If your group prefers cutthroat competition, the shared threat might feel like a distraction.
Decision Rules for Buying Dangerous Business
- Do you want more combat depth?: If you enjoy games where crafting feeds into combat preparation, Dangerous Business adds a satisfying loop. Get it if you want each item to feel like a step toward victory.
- Is your group comfortable with added complexity?: Adventurer boards introduce new mechanics. If your group is new to Merchants of Magick, play the base game first. Add the expansion only when everyone is comfortable. Consider a few base-game sessions before introducing the expansion.
- Do you prefer pure economic strategy?: If you love the base game's economic engine and don't want a combat focus, Dangerous Business may not be for you. The expansion shifts emphasis away from pure commerce. If you're on the fence, try a demo or watch a playthrough to see if the combat loop appeals.
Product Facts
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Merchants of Magick: Dangerous Business: Dangerous Business replaces sponsored Adventurer cards with new Adventurer boards, and as you craft items, your Adventurer's battle prowess increases. This gives you a tangible, upgradeable presence on the board, making crafting decisions directly impact your combat readiness.
Merchants of Magick: Dangerous Business
Who Should Buy This Expansion?
Best for
- Groups that want to add a combat layer to Merchants of Magick
- Players who enjoy upgrading a personal board and seeing their choices affect battle
Not for
- Players who prefer the pure economic engine of the base game
- Groups that are new to Merchants of Magick and still learning the basics
