As a gamer, I've always been drawn to games that offer variety in interaction and gameplay. However, Edge of Darkness Kickstarter's approach to game development raises some concerns about the value proposition for backers.

The basic version of the game promises 12 different insert types, which may seem impressive at first glance. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that this is a major drawback. With only 4 playable locations in the entire game, 12 different inserts would quickly become repetitive and dull. In contrast, other games in the same genre offer a much more diverse range of gameplay experiences.

Furthermore, considering the dearth of actual gameplay-relevant content in the basic version, it's hard to justify investing in this version without getting a significant amount of additional content. The rest of the game's mechanics may be interesting, but if they're not fully fleshed out, it's difficult to see the value in paying full price for the game.

One of my biggest criticisms of Edge of Darkness is its lack of polish and refinement. The game has a lot of moving parts, from card inserts to bases to rulebooks, which can make it overwhelming for new players. Additionally, some rules are unclear or vague, requiring players to consult the player's handbook instead of the main rulebook.

Despite these issues, I was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly the game played once we got past the initial setup and learned the rules. The action phase is straightforward, and the threat tower is a lot of fun. The card draw/drafting phase requires strategic thinking and planning, which adds an extra layer of depth to the game.

Overall, while Edge of Darkness has some promising elements, I would caution backers to carefully consider what they're getting for their money. While it's not a bad game by any means, it feels like it's missing something essential to truly make it stand out in the crowded world of tabletop gaming.

Edge of darkness kickstarter