Vast: The Mysterious Manor

Vast: The Mysterious Manor

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.
120 min
AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
13+
ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
3.8 / 5
Year
2019

About the game

An entirely asymmetric adventure game where each player controls a completely different role - the heroic Paladin, the swarming Skeletons, the fearsome Spider, the sentient Manor itself, or the mind-controlling Enchanter - each with unique goals, pieces, and paths to victory. Modular tile-based map-building lets the haunted manor take shape as play unfolds, with movement, line of sight, and race mechanics driving each faction's distinct playstyle. As a sequel to Vast: The Crystal Caverns, it's compatible for even more asymmetric combinations. A genre-defying game for groups who love wildly different player experiences at the same table.

Hobbli's Notes

Hobbli's team considers the Vast series one of the boldest experiments in asymmetric design - no two roles play remotely alike, which keeps the game feeling brand new every session. The inclusion of solo modes and cross-compatibility with other Vast titles adds excellent long-term value. It's an ambitious, rewarding pick for groups willing to learn several rule sets simultaneously. The asymmetry means a steep upfront learning curve, with each player needing to learn a separate rulebook.

What we like

  • Radically asymmetric roles create distinct play experiences.
  • Modular manor board offers high replayability.
  • Compatible with other Vast titles for more combinations.
  • Includes solo play modes.

Keep in mind

  • Steep learning curve with separate rules per role.
  • Balance can feel uneven between roles.
  • Long playtime and heavy complexity for newcomers.

Who it's for

Adventurous strategy gamers who enjoy asymmetric play, ages 13+, best for groups of 3-5 wanting a wildly different game each round.

Mechanics