Star Wars Unlimited Review - May the cash be with you (Spark of Rebellion)
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- Опубликовано: 28 июн 2024
- We review the new Star Wars TCG: Star Wars Unlimited! This Fantasy Flight Games (FFG) card game has players taking favorite sci-fi characters like Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader in an asymmetric card dueler. There’s plenty of inspiration drawn from LCGs as well, like resourcing cards from hand (Disney Lorcana) and having a leader to trigger every round (like the TCG Hearthstone). You can use MTG mechanics like First Strike and Sentinel in fighting over the two combat areas. Is the hype for buying boosters after these starter decks from Spark of Rebellion worth it? Will you go down the rabbit hole and do the collectible binge with buying booster boxes and going to prereleases? We’ve come from Yugioh (Edison format), some Ashes reborn, so will this hold up to our enjoyment? We’ve even played on TTS for some aggro decks from the unofficial database.
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Table of Contents:
Overview - (0:00)
Game Theory Tables - (1:27)
How to Play - (2:07)
Pros - (3:55)
Cons - (15:08)
Recommender Score - (19:26)
Adam’s Personal Score - (23:08)
Ashton's Personal Score - (27:18)
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Rounds for tournament play are best 2 of 3 in an hour. You can definitely finish games faster once both sides know the game and know their decks/cards. Fun game. TCG is a thing, love/hate it, but the game itself is cool to play.
Also, cards that appear only in the starter set (Tarkin, R2D2, C3PO, Leia, etc.) all come with 3 copies since it's a constructed deck game and you can have up to 3 copies in a deck. The starter set gives you a full playset of those cards so you don't need to buy a 2nd starter set (like other games in the past required).
30 year competitive TCG player here. I’ve played more games than I can count. I appreciate your perspectives and trying to evaluate this game from a non-TCG player’s point of view; likely adds valuable information for folks with a similar perspective.
From a season TCG player’s perspective though, the review is way off the mark. It would be hard to give a review from that perspective without taking a deeper dive into the mechanics, the meta, the gameplay - the more nuanced aspects of the game. I wasn’t really looking forward to this game at all, but I’ve been more than pleasantly surprised by it. There’s a lot more depth to the game play when the deck building options of the first set are fully realized. I recommend checking out Thorkk’s channel here on YT if you wanna dip your toes into that a little.
I’ve played 5 constructed events that were Bo3 with sideboard so far, ranging from 20-48 players. We didn’t have any trouble completing the rounds on time for any of those events; exceptionally few draws.
Also, I can’t stand MtG Commander. Absolutely hate it. But I got a chance to play some of the Twin Suns format, and wow, I actually had fun. Looking forward to delving into it more. The multiplayer rules are smooth, and so is the flow.
Really enjoying SW:U. A breath of fresh air in the TCG market; perhaps not revolutionary, but it’s making a big splash, and for good reason.
I think the same about Commander... That "format" should just disappear.
Thanks for sharing! I've been talking to friends who go to events, but it definitely isn't the same as going to the events myself, commenting on the meta, etc. I just can't cover the game 'as deep' as if I was only playing it and not reviewing board games, but I do think the information on the general systems and starter decks will help people out there. It's why I mentioned that I could do a follow up video in 6 months, probably after doing some draft events and all that. Definitely agree with you that the game isn't revolutionary, but making a big splash! -Ashton
The Cons section I found amusing, as I've seen soooo many people complaining about how over powered Tarkin is and that he makes the Vader deck too good as the Luke deck doesn't have anything as strong in it. He's also so good that a lot of people feel they HAVE to buy the starters even if they are planning to buy lots of booster boxes as well, as Tarkin is only available in the starters. So to bring him up as a con in this video for being too weak was a fun surprise. I definitely don't agree, whether or not I win my starter matches when playing as Vader usually hinges on if I draw into at least one Tarkin, he really is that good, but its still fun to see such a strong dissenting opinion. No arguments on Overwhelming Barrage, though, that card is fantastic, in starter or constructed. I don't think its too good, but it is VERY good.
I will say the fact there are 3 tarkins, instead of 2 as you suggested you would have preferred, would actually be part of my PROs section if I was to make one. People would have been so angry if a card that busted, and which is only available in the starter, wasn't at 3 copies such that you had to buy multiple starters to get a play-set.
Anyway appreciate the over view, I've already got some cards and have been in a few tournaments, but its still interesting to me to hear other peoples perspectives.
I honestly think they shouldn't be "reviewing" products like TCGs..
@@Big_Dai Eh, I like the unique perspective. I do think this game could be played purely with the starter decks, and if that's all you plan to do, get the starters and just use them, your going to value things differently then some one who looks at the starters just as a launching point.
@@DanTheMeek I agree that's a unique perspective, but it would also be reviewing a product completely different from how it was intended to be consumed. It's a "Starter" deck, not a "Standalone" deck. Again, totally valid and interesting perspective, just not what FFG was shooting for.
Thanks for sharing this- good to know that tarkin is seeing lots of use in other people's games and that the 3x is nice. Again, I don't know how good Tarkin is in constructed play, but he feels 'off' in the Vader deck in reasons mentioned in the video. In our plays Tarkin has been resourced first, after realizing that playing him early usually has you be behind on tempo, but yes, it is only starter deck plays.
-Ashton
I agreed with the analysis from these guys tbh, I tend to only end up using tarkin to reinforce an already winning situation and it rarely ends up being something that fits the resource curve in a way that fits easily.. maybe that's just the starter deck and thatll change, not sure yet.
That first Con you mentioned is a Pro for me. Less plastic is great, especially in packaging.
The point wasn't that there was no plastic; the point was that they don't like the box construction.
Great review. I have probably played 30 games so far using the starters and constructed plus played in community events. The game does start averaging around 20 minutes per game. Once each player better understand the cards and flow, it does become very snappy.
You should do a review of Summoner Wars. You can also play it online. I think you'd like it.
I agree.
Played it online! I will have to buy a copy and do a review one day -Ashton
Nice, looking forward to it.
You could check out the faction summaries on sw-zone to find a faction that suits your style btw.
Another good video - interested in seeing a follow up once you've played with boosters and more variety.
Side reviewer gets 11/10 for mentioning Xrd
Came to say this! lol
This game is genius. If you love poker; You are legit going to love playing this live across a table with folks. It's going to be ohh so much about reading, reacting and understanding the order of the decision tree breakdown. I am super pumped and the moment I can go buy boxes of this stuff I am ... its just not available in my area yet. (It sold out in 2 days and the guy running the shop has 115 boxes on backorder Lol).
Passing priority inside a turn is great, Legends of Runeterra introduced it and made me fell in love with it (rip❤😢)
Great video Ashton! Star Wars Unlimited is a great game! I have said it before, but need to say it again 😅 Im still crossing my fingers I will see a review of Vampire the eternal struggle5th edition from you!
Keep up the good work Shelfside! ❤
best multiplayer game! get a group of 5 and play vtes!
Its great at 4 aswell! Even good at 3 if you are new to the game and still learning!
Nice overview and review. I appreciate that you had both an experienced and inexperienced CCG/TCG player give their perspectives. I do think this could be a card game that can get less hardcore CCG players into this style of game. It caught my interest and I have avoided CCG's for many years, but I am tempted to get into it. Still a little too early to consider balance issues or OP cards yet....
They included 3 of Tarkin because he is only available in the starter deck (marked with the "S" on the bottom) and 3 is a playset in the game. The same goes for all the other starter "special" cards only found in the starter like Luke's / Vader's Lightsabers, C-3PO, R2-D2, etc.
Yep, thanks for sharing this! -Ashton
You definitely gotta play more and try out all the other leaders. Exciting moments come a lot more when you aren’t playing the starters & mind games are way more prevalent and fun when you and your opponent both really know what you’re doing. Once you’re familiar with the cards, I do find games happen between 15-20 minutes avg. And most games I’ve played (and I’ve played quite a lot) are actually *not* 100% determined by which leader survived the longest. Sabine for example comes out early on only 4 resources, usually dies after a turn or two, but if that deck is doing what it’s supposed to, it can finish the game even after that happens. Anyway, I feel like the grades given to this game in this video are super low. Seemed like you guys had a great time and the “Cons” list is very very small. I think if you continue to explore the game, it will continually surpass expectations as it has for me (pretty much every time I play I find something to appreciate about the game that I didn’t realize before). Also I disliked the art at first, but it has grown on me a lot - you definitely gotta open some booster packs and get some hyperspaces!
FFG's other SW card came, Destiny, had much better art, I feel. Also the claiming initiative mechanic is a holdover from that game.
Alot of the special cards like Tarkin and Motti are better in built decks. Basically it feels like they were put in the starter to sell more starters for nastier decks
Our first plays with the starter deck felt...fine? Nothing gave us that 'let's go again' feeling. Yes, it has a few neat tricks up its sleeve but really nothing groundbreaking. Overall felt like something I have played a bunch of times before in my life and lacked excitement. Netrunner remains the duelling game to beat. This being a TCG further kills any motivation to continue playing it.
Thanks for sharing! I was just kinda... ok on it the first time I played. Then it slowly grew on me, but the enjoyment has definitely plateau'd at the 7/10. Will see what happens in the future -Ashton
Agree that it feels a bit 'safe' as of now. I fully expect sets 2 and 3 to shake things up a bit. Would love to see you cover it more!
in a tournament setting, aggression decks can make 15 min games consistantly. can for sure go shorter just depends, that is probably what they were saying that for.
Well the fomo and short supply has made this skyrocket thats for sure!
It really makes you feel like Star War - Adam
So... what happened with Star Wars The Deckbuilding Game??? FFG pumps out another Star Wars game exactly one year later (SW DBG published on Mar 3, 2023)? Did they already abandon ship on SW DGB for TCG? Is this just more money potential, cause honestly if I listen to your description of the game without looking at the video, I'd swear you were talking about SW DBG. I got that game for my nephew and we played a few games two month ago and I'd describe it about 75% similar to how you've described this game (obviously the pool in the middle isn't there and there are some actions that sound different). I'm hoping the don't bail on the DBG now that they have this, as I was hoping for expansions, it's just.... so confusing to me.
FFG has stated that Unlimited has a dedicated team that is separate from their other game development teams, including LCGs, and they plan to continue on with their other projects without interruption. This game has been in development for well over a year, we already have names for the next couple sets, the first six sets are all completely developed and ready, and they've started development on sets 7-9. That means consistent releases already planned into 2027. Money potential? Yes! More revenue hopefully will mean bigger development budgets for all of their products.
If you like the resource system, I really hope you try Altered TCG when it comes out. Same resource system, better game in my opinion
They should probably stick to board games and not collectible card ones..
Also, Altered looks kind of boring.
Ummm no lol
altered was mad fun! Played it on BGA quite a bit -ashton
"Disturbance in your pants" LOL
I loath MtG. This looks so good though. One of my many complaints about mtg is the board wipes and counters. Just constantly stopping each other from doing anything or having fun. If that's not here, I'll try it
I opened the starter on the side.. Wasn't hard and didn't rip anything
First review I've seen that loved the art 😅
You guys should review Grand Archive TCG. It's pretty great.
My friends love Grand Archive and go to tournaments! I have yet to be sucked in -Ashton
@@Shelfside TBH, it's probably safer for your wallet not to get sucked in XD
Gotta love a good Trading Cash Game. Especially if its about Star Wars.
It’s based a lot on Star Wars Destiny as well. That game is pretty fun to be honest
I can tell you, it isn’t ;)
Well just have to disagree
@@trooper6762 You do you! Can’t say much more.
Ashton being a blackwing player fits so well
oooohh? the moment I saw gale I knew the deck was for me -ashton
Quite a cool review!
Also as another strong opinioned TCG nerd I'll chime in. The initiative mechanic seems really cool!
The whole rest of the game doesn't as much, it's just a tad bit too derivative. The modern improvements in resource systems are basically all the same across new TCGs and just fix the most glaring source of issues Magic has.
Lorcana, SWU, Altered all approach it this way and well, it's serviceable, that's it. One Piece dumbs it down even more but the game is more streamlined and better off for it actually! FAB is the only game really gaining ground in that regard.
I just don't see the draw to this, like it's just a bit different than the TCGs you already play and it has Star Wars on it, what gives.
Punchy gameplay you can find in One Piece, deep and interesting gameplay you find in FAB and Altered. Besides that this really doesn't strike a worthwhile note tbf.
How long does you guys take a Star Wars Rebellion game if you need 30 minutes for one in this? But the real question should be how long it took you to open a simple cardboard box...
Star Wars Rebellion takes us about 3-4.5 hrs, which is about average from what I can tell online. The cardboard box opening took longer because I didn't want to damage it for the review :) -ashton
Great review! I agree with the review of the Starter decks, but I disagree with the review of the game as a whole. As a TCG player, I think the bones of the game are a 9/10. My only true con as far as the game itself goes is that it doesn't do anything particularly innovative, but I think it perfects all of the systems in borrows from. I'd give the current set a 7 or 8. Excited to see where the game goes!
Honestly Id love to get into this game and play it, but the nearest store that runs games is 1 hour away. Yugioh right now is just not that fun for me so after seeing this I thought it might be something fun to play as an alternative, but I guess i’ll have to keep looking.
Play it more. It's really fun. I hope this video does well and you get some boosters. The starter is good but a few more leaders and cards will open up the experience for hopefully some great games for you.
This dude is cool. Subscribed
I freaking love this game :)
Looks meh. I'd rather play the Star Wars Deckbuilding Game.
I'm hoping the expansion for that comes soon -Ashton
Don't skip the starter like and Vader are not in reg boosters
I recognize a lot of this art from the old Star Wars Galaxies trading cards. Not a game, just a collection of Star wars art from a couple of decades ago.
It’s a great game!
Strongly advice you to try Flesh and Blood :)
This would have been better as a living card game rather than a tcg
I miss Star Wars Destiny man. Had some really cool concepts in there, destroying it for a more traditional baseline is very FFG if fear.
Normally im a sucker for anything star wars related or tcg related but nothing about this game looks exciting to me. Kinda looks boring and uninteresting. Im not a fan of the artwork on the cards and the huge mat looks ridiculous. Im sure its a solid game but it seems bland from a visual standpoint.
Ugh, why would they go with this comic book art? The art in Rebellion is so much better… (I know, I know, personal taste. Still.)
An unironic MtG clone thirty years after those were cool? I guess an uninspired cash grab is as on brand as it gets with modern Star Wars products though, they sure know their target audience.
MTG has been pretty awful for a long while, there's plenty of reason for people to clone it for market share. There's been like 20 in the last few years.
The Magic the Gathering comparison is completely unnecessary.. If you've spent 5 minutes playing the game, you'd know.
And reviewing a TCG bassed only on Starter Decks!?
Honestly, why is this channel even covering this (and poorly)? Even with the lack of knowledge, proper experience and expertise.. and even saying "Im NoT a TcG pLaYeR" ... OH! Money!
because he go PAID
why compare a new game with the biggest TCG there is, so you can explain whats similar and different... *completely* unnesessary huh
You seem a bit angry XD
I would imagine they used MTG as a jumping off point because it's the 10 ton gorilla in the room and makes a good reference point, funny how that is.
They should have just simplified and re-released the LCG. A full fledged TCG complete with the expensive booster pack/single buying stuff feels like another nail in the Star Wars coffin these days.
No.
FFG invented LCG and they know it's a system that doesn't work or sell. People aren't really interested in LCGs or others would have adopted the model already. LCGs are a bad idea for a myriad of reasons.
It gives to players and collectors alike. Chase cards and booster opening sells! More product sold, the better it does.
Saying it should be an LCG come out of a place of ignorance.
The TCG's gameplay is good, the variety in strategies with just one deck, and even the Player interest with events and tournaments already.
LCGs do not work for competitive games in the long run. They are a nightmare for retailers. There's a reason why the co-op ones are still running and the competitive ones are all gone. Even Netrunner, the best of the batch, could not survive proper retail channels and is on life support via a fan run group.
@@Dstinct ANR didn't survive because Hasbro decided to squeeze FFG on the cost of licensing the NetRunner name. Get your facts straight.
This daft shit about LCG doesn't work for competitive....um....yeah, it worked fine for years with multiple games so maybe you're guessing wrong.