Very good review, and I am now on the verge of pulling the trigger on it. I think my wife might love playing it with me. You are extremely experienced in board games, and if you call it a "timeless gem" that is high praise indeed. Thanks again!
This game is excellent and the designer is a top bloke who deserves the support. The fact that it’s independently produced to such a high level is remarkable. I own both editions, all expansions and promos and can’t recommend the game highly enough. Pull the trigger for sure. BGB has the best review out there for this timeless gem too. As always.
Many thanks for an entertaining review. I have played a few times using a friend's set and am hoping Santa has heard my plea! A minor correction: at 6:19 you say that monuments generate free Victory Points each turn, while of course they actually generate one Reputation -- useful but not as good as a VP. Since money also scores VPs it is always a big question whether to buy a Monument or not if the game is close to ending.
Geezer, I think this review was spot on. speaking as a 1st ed fan that contributed to the 2nd ed with a guest, I respect and concur with all your points. Although having seen some of the new tiles I think I need to upgrade my game, like your style son. Subbed when I saw you got your mum playing Fresco, respect. Mike.
Great review again! I had my eye on this for a while now and the 2.1 edition just became available again at one of the retailers so I came here to re-watch your review of it before buying and after playing it I have zero regrets! Also checked out Dan Hallagan's RUclips channel and all the videos he did on the game just oozes affection, so I think you were spot on when you praised him for that. The guy really put his heart & soul into this game and it shows.
Excellent review. I think you did a great job highlight both the game's strengths and shortcomings. I 100% agree that Obsession shouldn't be played above 4p, and really, is probably best played at 1-3p. I think 3p is my favorite count. I have played a lot of 4p Obsession and it's perfectly fine if you're not playing with AP-heavy players, but 5/6 is absolutely ridiculous. It's a real delight of a game and I'm happy it seems to be gradually getting more attention.
Thanks for a great review. You contributed to my final decision to buy this game. You mentioned that it isn’t more popular or mainstream. It is very difficult to get hold of. The publisher is selling it by himself and shipping only to the U.S. I spent quite a bit of money via a shipping service to get it shipped to Israel.
That’s great! I love this game...the theme is solid and there’s always something happening. Did you get the expansions? Glad I helped you pull the trigger on this unique gem 👍🏻
Nah not in my wheelhouse. I just note comments here and on BGG in its favour. The name seems offbeat and my lower its profile. Also I am not convinced that this represents the viable strategy for social advancement in C19 England. From your video it seems you must be constantly extending and upgrading your estate, which would produce an anthill of labourers and building materials where nobody would wish to visit.
Another great review from Boards of Sleaford as I now call you 😂 Glad you were able to compartmentalise the quality of the game but still call them rich bastards.
Thanks for covering this game. I have a small clarification for your audience. 7:30 A footman may stand in for a Valet only if you have the Brushing Room service tile. This makes the hiring of servants a more interesting decision, because otherwise there would be no reason to prefer the Valet.
I'm really glad you like this game. It is one of my favorites. Have you tried the different modes of play as well? I tried it solo and it does work well. I really want to try the others as well.
Don’t you think the game is a bit too luck reliant and I’ve heard reviews that after a while the theme on cards stales out so doesn’t have much replay ability
There are 2 errors according to the rules: the Cavendish family starts at reputation level 1 but position 4 ( so a little ahead but not a lot) and the manor gargoyles, (and the other monuments) gives 1 reputation point at each round. Otherwise; great review! 👍🏻
Nice review, would you recommend picking up the base with the expansions? It seems like the Wessex expansion, is lighter (compared to Upstairs Downstairs).
1st review of yours i have watched.I don't know the game and theme not my cup of tea but you sold it so i will check it out.Your comment on downtime should be a kick up the *** for making turns so involved everyone else just left picking their nose.(not literally of course)
Great Review, would you recommend this game for 2 people? The misses and I fancy giving it a blast when when we eventually get a copy. Second question... Are the Expansions a must? May as well try get my hands on them at the same time if I can. Liked your nemesis review. Haven't picked it up but was curious. Can finally put that to bed now, buy this instead.
Yea it played well for any count out of the core box. I wouldn’t play with 5 or six. The upstairs downstairs expansion adds more options and ramps up the complexity slightly but it’s not needed. I’d grab it if you enjoy the game and want more stuff. The other expansion is another family that allows you to play with 5/6 and just gives you more variety. I’d grab this last. It’s a fantastic game. Only downer is it looks a bit drab and could do with some illustrations on the tiles. Have fun with it.
Really good review, mate. The theme of this has always put me off, but looks like it’s worth a closer look. Your ‘don’t likes’ seem like minor quibbles more than anything and it plays well solo by all accounts. Cheers.
Played it solo once when I first picked it up and it was more of a ‘get your head around the rules’ type of thing so I didn’t bring it up in the review.
I contacted the designer directly. He had a few copies left at a fulfilment centre after his KS campaign. Here’s his email. You never know he may have some left. hallagan@kayentapublishing.com
My partner is obsessed (no pun intended) with this pride-and-prejudice genre of movies/tv shows but it's hard to get her to play most board games with me. I wonder if this would work for her...
The original theme sells this game but, like most Euros, it lacks direct competition/interaction between the players. Just as much fun solitaire as multi-player (and not in a good way).
Quite the conundrum this one, for me. I love the concept behind this, the different houses, the staff, the gossip, the theme! Problem is, I think the designer really missed some opportunities with this one. As you´ve indicated all the location tiles are just blank pieces of cardboard with a name on it instead of actual locations with a picture. And then the place itself. Ah, the Mansion. The mansion is a character in and of itself in shows like Downton Abbey, and an important one at that. It's where everything happens, it's the reason for the staff being there. The reason for the lavish parties, the secrecy, a vehicle for the social masking. The entire game really calls for a top down approach where you can see the different chambers, the staff could then be placed inside on different spots, instead of the mini map that is being used. We could have a library, a ballroom etc which would feature worker placement spots for interaction with other characters. It's a way of making every action thematic. Different players visit the house at different times during the day, but during parties can be there at the same time. Yes, now we are opening up the true potential of this game! It's a shame, because the idea of this is awesome! The execution, alas, is not. I think the novelty of this will eventually have to give way to a successor... Anyways, still enjoy your fantastic videos, keep it up!!
I can see where you’re coming from but I think that would be a different game entirely. I like the way this takes from what we already know and moulds it in to something new. Who knows, maybe another expansion will address your criticisms?
@@BoardGameBollocks Sure, if they added features like that I think I'd join the hype train because it checks a lot of boxes in one single game, which I appreciate. I've yet to see a negative review of this game, it surely is a unique piece for sure!
Hey, thank you for the review. I miss some thoughts about the expansions. I wonder if the expansions are worth my money and bother? Should these go down in history as a timeless gem, too?
How can anyone stay awake looking at, thinking of or playing this game? It's like viticulture without the wine. Since when do we judge games based on boxes ticked? Like does it replace multiple other games to make space on the shelf? What is happening? Note: i havent played it but i cannot tolerate the videos about it so idk how I'm expected to.
Very good review, and I am now on the verge of pulling the trigger on it. I think my wife might love playing it with me. You are extremely experienced in board games, and if you call it a "timeless gem" that is high praise indeed. Thanks again!
Do it. It’s in my top 10 games of all time. New expansion coming for it soon as well.
This game is excellent and the designer is a top bloke who deserves the support. The fact that it’s independently produced to such a high level is remarkable. I own both editions, all expansions and promos and can’t recommend the game highly enough. Pull the trigger for sure. BGB has the best review out there for this timeless gem too. As always.
@@Mark-jagger Thank you very much, Mark! (You have my middle name, by the way.🙂 Cheers!)
Just subscribed. Thanks! Love your vibe and how you express your thoughts quickly and clearly.
Cheers 👍🏻
Great review 👍 giggled a lot - you mentioned the highlights and drawbacks that I've also found.
👍🏻
Many thanks for an entertaining review. I have played a few times using a friend's set and am hoping Santa has heard my plea! A minor correction: at 6:19 you say that monuments generate free Victory Points each turn, while of course they actually generate one Reputation -- useful but not as good as a VP. Since money also scores VPs it is always a big question whether to buy a Monument or not if the game is close to ending.
Geezer, I think this review was spot on. speaking as a 1st ed fan that contributed to the 2nd ed with a guest, I respect and concur with all your points. Although having seen some of the new tiles I think I need to upgrade my game, like your style son. Subbed when I saw you got your mum playing Fresco, respect.
Mike.
Cheers mate 👍🏻 Which guest was it?
Great review again! I had my eye on this for a while now and the 2.1 edition just became available again at one of the retailers so I came here to re-watch your review of it before buying and after playing it I have zero regrets! Also checked out Dan Hallagan's RUclips channel and all the videos he did on the game just oozes affection, so I think you were spot on when you praised him for that. The guy really put his heart & soul into this game and it shows.
👍🏻
Hey, did you try the expansions, too? What are your thoughts?
@@windischandreas9313 I have not, unfortunately, but "Upstairs, Downstairs" is on its way to me, so hopefully soon.
Obsession 2nd. Ed. was my Top Game of 2020. The expansion is great too and now I never play without it. The solo mode is also really enjoyable.
It was #8 on my recent top 100...outstanding game.
Excellent review. I think you did a great job highlight both the game's strengths and shortcomings. I 100% agree that Obsession shouldn't be played above 4p, and really, is probably best played at 1-3p. I think 3p is my favorite count. I have played a lot of 4p Obsession and it's perfectly fine if you're not playing with AP-heavy players, but 5/6 is absolutely ridiculous. It's a real delight of a game and I'm happy it seems to be gradually getting more attention.
Great review! I will be picking this game up at some point.
Must have mate. Unique theme and some great mechanics. Love it.
I want to play this game SO MUCH!
Sweet jesus, i love your videos. Thank you
Thanks for a great review. You contributed to my final decision to buy this game. You mentioned that it isn’t more popular or mainstream. It is very difficult to get hold of. The publisher is selling it by himself and shipping only to the U.S. I spent quite a bit of money via a shipping service to get it shipped to Israel.
That’s great! I love this game...the theme is solid and there’s always something happening. Did you get the expansions?
Glad I helped you pull the trigger on this unique gem 👍🏻
@@BoardGameBollocks I bought it without the expansions.
Worth taking at look at the upstairs downstairs expansion once you’ve explored the base game. Wessex expansion is simply another family.
I agree that this seems well crafted and marketed and is already pleasing many gamers.
Have you played it?
Nah not in my wheelhouse. I just note comments here and on BGG in its favour.
The name seems offbeat and my lower its profile. Also I am not convinced that this represents the viable strategy for social advancement in C19 England. From your video it seems you must be constantly extending and upgrading your estate, which would produce an anthill of labourers and building materials where nobody would wish to visit.
Most of the tiles are events to be fair. You host events to generate cash to build the more expensive/lucrative tiles.
Had this in my hands today but decided against it as I didn’t know enough about it. Now I’m thinking I need to play it.
Yes you do
I found the designer's site and I'm going to get a copy of that obsession game.
Another great review from Boards of Sleaford as I now call you 😂 Glad you were able to compartmentalise the quality of the game but still call them rich bastards.
Great review and comments on gaming comparisons
Thanks for covering this game. I have a small clarification for your audience.
7:30
A footman may stand in for a Valet only if you have the Brushing Room service tile. This makes the hiring of servants a more interesting decision, because otherwise there would be no reason to prefer the Valet.
I'm really glad you like this game. It is one of my favorites. Have you tried the different modes of play as well? I tried it solo and it does work well. I really want to try the others as well.
Don’t you think the game is a bit too luck reliant and I’ve heard reviews that after a while the theme on cards stales out so doesn’t have much replay ability
No
There are 2 errors according to the rules: the Cavendish family starts at reputation level 1 but position 4 ( so a little ahead but not a lot) and the manor gargoyles, (and the other monuments) gives 1 reputation point at each round. Otherwise; great review! 👍🏻
Yea think this was mentioned in the comments
Nice review, would you recommend picking up the base with the expansions? It seems like the Wessex expansion, is lighter (compared to Upstairs Downstairs).
Grab the lot mate. U/D improves the game immeasurably with so much extra content. Essential expansion imo. Wessex is just an extra family.
@@BoardGameBollocks Cheers mate, I shall! It looks like a real lesser-known gem.
It's my new favourite game of all time.
It’s a fascinating game 👍🏻
Actually laughed out loud like a small child when you pressed the light switch and instead of hearing Board Games 4K, I heard "BOLLOCKS!"...
😂👏🏻
The trouble is just trying to get hold of a copy at the moment
Contact the designer
they are currently not selling to any countries except Canada and the US due to postage costs due to covid
That sucks. Great game.
It’s on the wish list. 😏👍🏻
Superb review.
Cheers mate 👍🏻
1st review of yours i have watched.I don't know the game and theme not my cup of tea but
you sold it so i will check it out.Your comment on downtime should be a kick up the *** for
making turns so involved everyone else just left picking their nose.(not literally of course)
It’s a great game. Downtime really on a prob with expansion.
Great Review, would you recommend this game for 2 people? The misses and I fancy giving it a blast when when we eventually get a copy. Second question... Are the Expansions a must? May as well try get my hands on them at the same time if I can.
Liked your nemesis review. Haven't picked it up but was curious. Can finally put that to bed now, buy this instead.
Yea it played well for any count out of the core box. I wouldn’t play with 5 or six.
The upstairs downstairs expansion adds more options and ramps up the complexity slightly but it’s not needed. I’d grab it if you enjoy the game and want more stuff.
The other expansion is another family that allows you to play with 5/6 and just gives you more variety. I’d grab this last.
It’s a fantastic game. Only downer is it looks a bit drab and could do with some illustrations on the tiles.
Have fun with it.
Really good review, mate. The theme of this has always put me off, but looks like it’s worth a closer look. Your ‘don’t likes’ seem like minor quibbles more than anything and it plays well solo by all accounts. Cheers.
Played it solo once when I first picked it up and it was more of a ‘get your head around the rules’ type of thing so I didn’t bring it up in the review.
Getting hold of this looks to be a pain, only the Wessex expansion seems readily available.
I contacted the designer directly. He had a few copies left at a fulfilment centre after his KS campaign. Here’s his email. You never know he may have some left.
hallagan@kayentapublishing.com
Nice one, thanks for that. Will give him a try.
Says on his website European retail scheduled for early 2021 so even if he hasn’t got any spares it’s will be here soon.
My partner is obsessed (no pun intended) with this pride-and-prejudice genre of movies/tv shows but it's hard to get her to play most board games with me. I wonder if this would work for her...
It’s quite complex if she’s not played many modern games...
The original theme sells this game but, like most Euros, it lacks direct competition/interaction between the players. Just as much fun solitaire as multi-player (and not in a good way).
Is that the royal " we " ? 😅😅😅
My gaming group contribute to the opinions here
Quite the conundrum this one, for me. I love the concept behind this, the different houses, the staff, the gossip, the theme! Problem is, I think the designer really missed some opportunities with this one. As you´ve indicated all the location tiles are just blank pieces of cardboard with a name on it instead of actual locations with a picture. And then the place itself. Ah, the Mansion. The mansion is a character in and of itself in shows like Downton Abbey, and an important one at that. It's where everything happens, it's the reason for the staff being there. The reason for the lavish parties, the secrecy, a vehicle for the social masking. The entire game really calls for a top down approach where you can see the different chambers, the staff could then be placed inside on different spots, instead of the mini map that is being used. We could have a library, a ballroom etc which would feature worker placement spots for interaction with other characters. It's a way of making every action thematic. Different players visit the house at different times during the day, but during parties can be there at the same time. Yes, now we are opening up the true potential of this game! It's a shame, because the idea of this is awesome! The execution, alas, is not. I think the novelty of this will eventually have to give way to a successor... Anyways, still enjoy your fantastic videos, keep it up!!
I can see where you’re coming from but I think that would be a different game entirely.
I like the way this takes from what we already know and moulds it in to something new.
Who knows, maybe another expansion will address your criticisms?
@@BoardGameBollocks Sure, if they added features like that I think I'd join the hype train because it checks a lot of boxes in one single game, which I appreciate. I've yet to see a negative review of this game, it surely is a unique piece for sure!
Hey, thank you for the review. I miss some thoughts about the expansions. I wonder if the expansions are worth my money and bother? Should these go down in history as a timeless gem, too?
Simple answer is yes
Expensive game....nearly £60 so I am wondering if I should wait awhile !! Anyway, I think it is out of stock right now....not sure though.
I believe it recently got reprinted. You can message the designer directly at Kayenta Games website
How can anyone stay awake looking at, thinking of or playing this game? It's like viticulture without the wine. Since when do we judge games based on boxes ticked? Like does it replace multiple other games to make space on the shelf? What is happening? Note: i havent played it but i cannot tolerate the videos about it so idk how I'm expected to.
You’re criticising a game you never played? Bizarre.
It's a great game. But the theme isn't for everyone.
New name, same bollocks
👍🏻