Mansions of Madness: Second Edition

Mansions of Madness: Second Edition

AdventureExplorationFantasyFighting
Players
1-5
Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
4 players
Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
180 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
14+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
2.7 / 5
Year
2016

About the game

Mansions of Madness: Second Edition is a fully cooperative, app-driven horror adventure set in the Lovecraftian Arkham Files universe. Investigators explore haunted mansions, solve mysteries, and battle monsters and creeping insanity, guided by a companion app that eliminates the need for a human keeper. The app handles setup, scoring, and story branching, making it easy to jump into varied scenarios. Its immersive horror atmosphere and modular map design make each playthrough feel different.

Hobbli's Notes

The app removes a huge barrier to entry for cooperative horror games since nobody has to run the scenario, and the atmosphere it builds through audio and narration is genuinely tense. It does tie the game to a device, which some purists dislike.

What we like

  • App-driven play removes the need for a dedicated human keeper.
  • Immersive horror theme with strong atmospheric presentation.
  • Modular scenarios and campaign structure offer good replayability.
  • Works well solo or with a full group.

Keep in mind

  • Requires a tablet or device and periodic app updates to play.
  • Long setup and playtime per scenario.
  • Combat outcomes can feel swingy due to heavy dice reliance.

Who it's for

Fans of cooperative horror and mystery games, groups of 1-5, ages 14+.

Mechanics

MovementCooperative GameDice RollingHand ManagementMap AdditionModular BoardRole PlayingScenario / Mission / Campaign GameSolo / Solitaire GameStat Check ResolutionHidden Roles / TraitorVariable Player Powers

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