Risk Board Game
Risk is a strategic board game designed by Albert Lamorisse and published by Parker Brothers in 1957. Players command armies to conquer territories across a world map. The game supports 2-5 players, ages 10 and up, with playtime ranging from 30 minutes to several hours. This review examines Risk’s gameplay, mechanics, and overall experience.
Risk Overview
Risk is a territory conquest game where players aim to control the world map by strategically placing armies, attacking opponents, and defending their positions. The game encourages negotiation, alliances, and tactical decision-making.
| Designer | Albert Lamorisse |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Parker Brothers |
| Year Released | 1957 |
| Players | 2-5 |
| Age Range | 10+ |
| Playing Time | 30 min – 4+ hours |
| Game Type/Category | Strategy, Conquest |
| Complexity Rating | Medium |
Risk Components
The game includes a large foldable world map, army pieces, dice, and territory cards. The map is made of sturdy cardboard, and the colored army tokens are durable. Territory cards feature detailed illustrations for easy identification. Overall, components are functional and suitable for repeated gameplay.
- 1 foldable world map with 42 territories
- 5 sets of colored army tokens
- 2 six-sided dice per player
- 42 territory cards
- Rulebook with setup and gameplay instructions
Risk Pros and Cons
- High replayability: Different starting positions and strategies make each game unique.
- Strategic depth: Requires planning and tactical decision-making.
- Social interaction: Alliances and negotiation enhance player engagement.
- Varied gameplay: Players can experiment with different attack and defense strategies.
- Long gameplay: Ideal for players who enjoy extended sessions.
- Complexity: Steep learning curve for new players.
- Length: Games can last multiple hours, which may cause fatigue.
- Imbalance: Early advantages can impact fairness.
How to Play Risk
Setup
Players select a set of army tokens and are assigned starting territories. Shuffle and deal territory cards to distribute ownership.
Turn Structure
Each turn consists of three phases: reinforcement, attack, and fortification. Players place new armies based on controlled territories and continent bonuses. Attacks are resolved using dice rolls, with higher rolls winning engagements. Fortification allows moving troops between adjacent territories.
Winning the Game
The game ends when a single player controls all territories or achieves a specific mission in variants like Risk: Godstorm or Risk: Legend of the Five Rings.
Where to Buy Risk
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| Amazon | www.amazon.com |
| Walmart | www.walmart.com |
| Target | www.target.com |
| Local Game Stores | www.coopboardgames.com |
Risk Game Mechanics
Risk features area control, dice-based combat, and card management. Players must decide where to allocate troops, when to attack, and when to defend. Territory cards introduce randomness and strategic opportunities. Dice combat adds risk and reward, requiring players to weigh probability when making attacks.
Mechanics encourage negotiation, as alliances can shift throughout the game. The interaction between armies, territory bonuses, and cards creates layered decision-making. Variants like Risk: Godstorm add mythological elements and powers, enhancing complexity.
Who Should Play Risk
Risk is ideal for strategic players who enjoy long, tactical games. Groups that enjoy negotiation and diplomacy will find it engaging. Casual gamers may struggle with complexity and length. For those seeking shorter, simpler games, options like Catan or Ticket to Ride may be better.
Risk is suitable for family game nights with older children or adult gaming groups looking for strategic challenges.
FAQ
Is Risk good for beginners?
Risk has a moderate learning curve. Beginners can play, but initial sessions may be slow while learning rules and strategies. Starting with fewer players can help ease understanding.
How long does Risk take to play?
Game length varies. A typical session lasts 1-2 hours, but full games with 4-5 players can take 3-4+ hours depending on strategies and negotiations.
What’s the best player count for Risk?
Risk works well with 3-5 players. Fewer players can make the game predictable, while larger groups increase negotiation and strategic options.
Is Risk worth buying?
Risk is worth buying for strategy enthusiasts and those who enjoy negotiation-based board games. Its replayability and tactical depth make it a solid addition to most collections.
What games are similar to Risk?
Similar games include Axis & Allies, Small World, and Game of Thrones: The Board Game. These offer area control and strategic gameplay, with different levels of complexity and playtime.
