Cry Havoc

Cry Havoc

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.
10+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
3.3 / 5
Year
2016

About the game

Cry Havoc is an asymmetric, card-driven area-control wargame set on a contested alien jungle world. Each of the four factions - Humans, Machines, Trogs, and Pilgrims - plays with distinctly different units, abilities, and win conditions, forcing players to adapt strategies to their faction's unique strengths. Multi-use cards serve as currency, actions, or combat support, adding tactical flexibility to every turn. Battles for territory determine resource control and victory points, with custom miniatures bringing the conflict to life on a large modular board. Its deep asymmetry and strategic card play deliver a fresh, tense war for dominance each game.

Hobbli's Notes

Hobbli's editorial team is impressed with how thoroughly asymmetric Cry Havoc feels - each faction plays like a genuinely different game, which keeps repeat plays fresh and interesting. The multi-use card system elegantly ties resource management to combat and movement. Detailed miniatures and a striking sci-fi setting add real table presence. The steep asymmetry means there's a real learning curve to understand all four factions well.

What we like

  • Deeply asymmetric factions keep the game fresh across many plays.
  • Multi-use card system elegantly blends resources, actions, and combat.
  • Striking miniatures and sci-fi theme add strong table presence.
  • Rewards adaptive strategy tailored to each faction's strengths.

Keep in mind

  • Steep learning curve to master all four asymmetric factions.
  • Longer playtime with notable downtime between turns.
  • Miniature-heavy components add setup complexity.

Who it's for

Suited to experienced strategy gamers aged 10+ who enjoy asymmetric area-control wargames, in groups of 2-4.

Mechanics