h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I played a game of 'Runebound' at the weekend. For those who have played Talisman, try it. For those who have roleplayed - or know what that means in a Dungeons & Dragons-type context - give it a go for a focussed session of entertaining gaming where no single individual need take the gamemaster role. For those who enjoy board games, you will appreciate the quality of the components and the solid gameplay experience. For those into fantasy films or novels who enjoy spending time with friends and have time to spare, I strongly suggest you give it a go.

Really, I thoroughly enjoyed my four or five hours! Yes, it took that long to play - but it proved worth the investment. Basically, 'Runebound' involves several players taking on the role of characters seeking to put a stop to the return of Margath, evil dragon overlord. You roam the land seeking to silence his followers and gather powerful possessions and allies. You can adventure through increasingly difficult quests by drawing different coloured challenge cards. Green challengs will give pause to a starting character, with yellow, blue and finally red challenges posing significantly more troublesome threats.

You can visit local towns to heal yourself (and your allies) and purchase new equipment (or acquire the service of more formidable allies). Some challenges require that you take trips to certain towns to achieve certain goals with a fine prize at the end.

Great fun had by all - and the game line includes a dozen more expansion 'packs' - with cards that either shuffle directly into the existing decks or replace elements to pose fresh challenges.