Cthulhu Wars
- Players
- 2-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 4 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 120 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 14+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 3.1 / 5
- Year
- 2015
About the game
Cthulhu Wars is a massive area-control strategy game where players command alien factions from the Lovecraft mythos, deploying towering plastic monsters and Great Old Ones across a map of Earth. Using action points and gathered power, players recruit cultists, wage battles, and race to awaken their god while unlocking spellbooks. The game combines area majority/influence with variable player powers, giving each faction a unique playstyle. With its oversized components and thematic weight, it's a striking centerpiece game for serious strategy gamers.
Hobbli's Notes
Hobbli's team loves the tabletop presence of Cthulhu Wars: the sculpted monsters practically demand to be shown off. It rewards multiple plays as you learn how each faction's engine works and interacts with the others. The asymmetry is deep enough to keep veteran gamers coming back, though newcomers may feel overwhelmed at first. This is very much a 'gamer's game' rather than a casual pickup.
What we like
- Stunning, oversized miniatures create real tabletop presence.
- Deep asymmetric factions offer high replayability.
- Rewards careful long-term planning and power management.
- Direct player conflict keeps every faction engaged.
Keep in mind
- High cost of entry and significant table space required.
- Long playtime and steep learning curve for new players.
- Runaway leader potential if one faction snowballs early.
Who it's for
Best suited to experienced strategy gamers aged 14+ who enjoy area control and asymmetric faction play in groups of 2-4.
