Deep Rock Galactic

In Deep Rock Galactic we take on the role of astro dwarves whose task is to mine gems and other shiny things. Throughout the 14 scenarios, we will learn that the life of space beards is not that easy. Because in addition to hard work, a battle with space bugs and a shortage of ammunition awaits us.

However, let’s not worry. Because every miner is equipped with effective insecticides. To eliminate bugs we will use rifles, flamethrowers, grenades and other weapons. Although nothing will prepare us for the massed attacks of the horde, which likes to appear at the least suitable moment. That’s when we can count on our teammates to support us with their skills and bearded banter.

Mechanically, Deep Rock Galactic is like a more elaborate Zombicide. Each dwarf has 3 actions to perform, and we will resolve all our attacks using dice. However, the options available here are more broad in bars. Because in addition to movement and attack, we can also dig, upgrade our weapons, lend a helping hand to other dwarves, replenish supplies and use our special abilities.

Why it was worth digging into this game

I dig that

The best aspect of this game is the digging. Because at the start of the game we set up the map, but as we bushwhack through the caves we can create our own passages. This allows us to take different routes to our objectives. It also provides the variety the game needs.

I also really like that when we dig into a hidden cave, we explore it and see what’s waiting for us. It’s usually more bugs poured over a sauce of more bugs. But which bugs are there is pretty random. This surprises me in a positive way.

Anyone can be a bearded dwarf

A huge plus of Deep Rock Galactic is that each dwarf has their own favourite weapon and skill set. Gunner shoots with a minigun but provides a quick line for transport and a shield for defence. Scout can combine shooting with movement and is not easy to stop. Driller destroys everything in its path, and what’s left will be burned by his flamethrower. Engineer summons a sentry and throws discs under our feet to help us with movement.

The character asymmetry is really good in this game. In addition, our hero is varied with a second weapon, a grenade and a one-time ability that we get at the beginning of the game. A lot of these abilities also help our teammates and it feels like a full bearded co-op. Even the action of picking up our teammates is more efficient when someone else is doing it.

I really like the fact that each weapon is practically different. Because the weapons differ in range, the dice we will roll and some of the guns even have special abilities. We can also change our equipment before each mission. This adds a breath of fresh air to the way we guide our miners.

Horde of vermin

Our opponents are also very diverse. Because we will face spider bugs, flying bugs, walking bugs, exploding bugs, plant bugs and even oh my gosh you can’t kill that bug. Most of the insects have their own special abilities, and some of them will be immune to a certain attacks. In terms of enemy variety, it’s good too.

I like the fact that our insects activate in bulk and we never know when it will happen. Because after each miner’s turn, we draw an event card and it will tell us what bad things are happening. Although sometimes we will be able to surprise ourselves with something good. The best part of bug activation is the emergence of the horde. Then new enemies appear in the tunnels and I love seeing them flood the map with their limbs.

Quality and components

I used to think CMON made the best board game miniatures. It was Mood Publishing that quickly changed my mind. The minis are full of detail, and by their pose I feel like this plastic is constantly in motion. The rest of the components are very good too. Of course, the most important thing for me is the insert and here they done a great job. We can sort everything elegantly.

Scaling

Deep Rock Galactic allows for gameplay from 1 to 4 players. In solo mode we can play with 1 miner, but with the help of a small robot who will dig and shoot with us. In other variants, we have to operate a full squad of astro dwarves. However, this is not a problem. Because the game is so simple, we can handle a bunch like this on our own. Although it’s well known that it’s always better with friends. Because the game allows us to do some cool cooperative moves, and that’s what I like the most.

Playing time

A single mission will take between one and two hours. It also depends on how extensive the scenario is. Although I’ll honestly admit that as I play I don’t feel the time passing at all. Because I’m having so much fun.

What collapses this game a little

14 x the same

We have a variety of enemies and dwarves. However, I can’t say the same about the available scenarios. Because they all basically consist of the same thing. We go down tunnels, fight off bugs, all to extract a few treasures. Later we have to evacute to the capsule and we can go for a pint of golden drink. The variety of missions is definitely not the strong point of this game. Although occasionally we might be surprised by some boss fights that require a little more commitment from us.

Preparing to work

The initial setup of the map can be annoying. This is because it requires us to position the terrain tiles correctly. Some tiles have to be placed on top of others so that they fit perfectly into the given image. The tiles are not numbered and the layout is sometimes not very obvious.

Summary

I’ll start with a thick beard and say that Deep Rock Galactic perfectly captures the atmosphere of the computer game. I’ve spent dozens of hours playing it and I really like how Mood Publishing has handled it. Because the game is still about going underground, creating your own paths and eliminating bugs in several ways. All of this is served up in a cooperative atmosphere of asymmetrical beards. For me, it’s just good pure fun. Despite the overly similar scenarios.

Final verdict: Deep Rock Galactic is a fantastic bearded co-op

Pros

• Build your own path
• Asymmetrical beards
• Various guns
• Horde of bugs
• Great miniatures
• Good solo,
• but better with friends

Cons

• Same missions
• How do you arrange this tiles?

[Game provided by Mood Publishing]