HOW TO PLAY:
Setup:
Each player chooses a unique mage character, each with special abilities. Players begin with a small, starter deck that consists of basic cards, such as gems (for generating resources) and spells (for attacking or defending). Players will also select a Nemesis to face, each with its own set of unique abilities and minions that create different challenges for the players.
Game Phases:
Aeon’s End is played over a series of rounds, each consisting of the following phases:
Player Phase: During the player phase, each player can take turns performing actions such as gaining resources by playing gem cards, casting spells to attack enemies or defend themselves, and purchasing new cards from the market to add to their deck.
Nemesis Phase: After all players have taken their turns, the Nemesis attacks. The Nemesis will deal damage to the players, summon minions, and use special abilities that can disrupt the players’ plans. Players must work together to manage these threats.
Building Your Deck:
As you defeat enemies and gain resources, you can purchase new cards from a central market. The market contains powerful cards, such as new spells or cards that allow you to heal or manipulate the game’s mechanics. The key to success is building a deck that combines offense, defense, and utility cards that support your strategy against the Nemesis.
Special Abilities:
Each mage has unique powers, which can be activated at specific points in the game. These abilities can turn the tide of battle by providing additional resources, healing, or dealing significant damage to the Nemesis. Using your mage’s ability strategically is crucial to winning the game.
Managing Breaches:
Players must also manage their Breaches (magical channels through which they cast spells). Over time, Breaches can be unlocked to allow for more powerful spells to be cast. However, opening and using Breaches comes with risks and requires careful planning to avoid overextending yourself.
Cooperation and Strategy:
Aeon’s End is a cooperative game, meaning players must work together to defeat the Nemesis. It’s not just about the cards you play individually but how you support your teammates. Sharing resources, strategically casting spells, and protecting each other from enemy attacks are key to success. Teamwork is critical, as the Nemesis becomes stronger over time, and solo efforts won’t stand a chance.
Winning the Game:
To win Aeon’s End, the players must defeat the Nemesis by reducing its health to zero. However, if all players are eliminated (meaning their health reaches zero), the Nemesis wins. Strategic planning, managing resources efficiently, and leveraging each mage’s strengths are essential for victory.
Difficulty and Replayability:
The game features various levels of difficulty, with different Nemeses offering unique challenges. The randomness of the cards in the market and the random events that occur in the Nemesis phase ensure that each playthrough offers a fresh experience. Replayability is high as players can try different mages, cards, and Nemeses to create new strategies.