Summoner Wars: Master Set

Summoner Wars: Master Set

Players
2-4
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
2 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
60 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
9+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
2.5 / 5
Year
2011

About the game

Summoner Wars: Master Set is a fast-playing card-based dueling game where 2-4 players command powerful Summoners and their factions in battle across the war-torn world of Itharia. Each of the six included factions - from Shadow Elves to Swamp Orcs - plays with a distinct tactical identity, combining unit summoning, movement, and spellcasting. Players build walls, deploy warriors, and cast devastating magic in a race to defeat the enemy Summoner. Its combination of deck-building, hand management, and asymmetric factions has made it a beloved staple of card-driven combat games.

Hobbli's Notes

Summoner Wars nails the feel of a tactical skirmish game in card form, with each faction's kit feeling meaningfully different from the rest. The Master Set is a great value, bundling six factions so groups can experiment with match-ups right away. Games move quickly, making it easy to fit in several rounds in an evening, though experienced players will out-maneuver newcomers noticeably. It's a great choice for fans of head-to-head tactical card games.

What we like

  • Six distinct, asymmetric factions offer varied playstyles.
  • Fast-playing sessions make repeated matches easy.
  • Combines deck-building, positioning, and spellcasting in one system.
  • Great value bundling multiple factions in the Master Set.

Keep in mind

  • Experienced players can have a steep advantage over newcomers.
  • Limited to two-player duels for the core experience.

Who it's for

Great for ages 9 and up, appealing to fans of tactical dueling card games in head-to-head groups of 2-4.

Mechanics