Mansions of Madness 2nd Edition Review - with Tom Vasel

[@ceetee2001]

The thing no one mentions is the fact that the app does things that are impossible to do if only playing with a keeper player. The app can move monsters and do other stuff on the map and in the scenario that aren't reviled to the players yet. . That alone makes the app a FANTASTIC innovation to board games! Try it before you hate it! Please! :)

[@reptomicus]

Bad design is not an innovation. If a boardgame needs an app, it's not a good design. If the ruleset was too much for a human keeper, it's not a good design. It's a band-aid. The fact that it could have forgone the board altogether and simply made a multiplayer app is a sign of bad design.

[@ManFromTheFizz]

Why the hell not just make it a video game at that point XD?

[@ceetee2001]

@@ManFromTheFizz It is not social, and it is not physical.

[@ceetee2001]

@@reptomicus There is actially plenty of things you cannot accomplish with a keeper thar the app can do.

[@Freakadog]

Man, I'm loving the new high quality and 60fps videos. :) Nice step up, looks great!

[@necrotoaster94]

The app thing will turn off some people but for this game specifically there's a huge difference that Tom didn't mention - there's a WINDOWS app. Yes, you can run the app on Windows 7, 8.1, and 10 - I've done it on Win7 and it works great (it's free from Steam games). That's huge for me because I know that a Windows app is likely to have much longer legs (many years) than an Android or iOS app. Why? Because I have Windows based games from the early 1990s that still work today (via VirtualBox for example). Huge thumbs up for having the Windows app as well and I hope other game app developers take that approach.

[@boohiss83]

Well now the game's much more tempting to me. Having it on my phone is one thing, but it's a whole lot better having it on a 42" screen on the wall of my game room. The sound will be much better as well!

[@necrotoaster94]

Totally agree. Extra cool is that after you download the app from Steam it's totally portable. You can just copy the files to a USB key and run it from there on any machine, Steam or not. Totally DRM free. I pretty much did that, putting the app onto an extra USB key and leaving it in the game box so it travels with it. FFG has updated the app a few times already to fix bugs so I've been keeping the USB key updated accordingly.

[@SethalaTheGamer]

Agreed, and I'm glad that FFG has done the same with both XCom and Descent Road to Legend (though it looks like XCom isn't on Steam, it's a direct download from FFG's site).

[@quasistellar]

that is a gigantic humongous point that Tom neglected, and I was surprised at that.

[@corgifluff3681]

You can also use an emulator, so you can download the app and install it on there. I tried it on Nox, which is an Android emulator, and installed the apk on it. Seems to work fine to me. Just another option to point out.

[@2newlife1]

i got the game and played the first scenario. All I can say guys is WOW! this game feels refreshing and new. A must buy if you like FF games!

[@alekshewitt]

Age: 4+? That is some sick sense of humor. :) Horror Check: The cultists grabs your favorite stuffed animal and tears it's head off. Suffer 2 Horror (Will negates).

[@Blackwarrior2003]

Time: 15 minutes Ages: 4+ Type: Horror Haha, that made me laugh.

[@davidgeister]

I love your enthusiasm for this game! I just bought it, will be adding the components from my First Edition version, and am looking forward to many hours of enjoyment.

[@JBearwa]

The complete game with all the expansions has 22 missions in the free app! They’ve been constantly improving and adding content to the base game.

[@skyorrichegg]

the app is also available on PC through Steam...

[@kraavenhalftusk6121]

so many glowing reviews of this game and the fact that it can be played solo made me order it..and you can download the app off steam for your laptop or desktop, cant wait to get my hands on it...

[@Daoshifu]

the app made me play descent solo again. it's brutal. haven't lived through one scenario so far. but having a blast. hope MoM will be the same.

[@GreatMachination]

Clearly the best horror story-driven board game I've ever played. The app tool takes away the mundane and gives back in spades a fantastic thematic experience and mystery. You will need the board as the app doesn't keep track of all the pieces being moved, it is a tool after all NOT a game. Using the mini cards that doubled as Damage/Horror tokens was a great move, too. What other strange locations will we go to next? Miskatonic University? An abandoned tomb in Egypt? Untold riches here.

[@ManFromTheFizz]

It's all just a Stat based RNG Fest! XD Where's the fun in that?

[@IronSalamander8]

I like the idea of the app replacing the GM so everybody can be an investigator. I have the old one and all the expansions but will have to grab this new version as well.

[@Vamric]

Shouldn't your tablet have been part of the component drop?

[@Andromedax01]

Haha maybe Tom should keep an old broken tablet around to throw in the component drops, just to drive people crazy.

[@jonathana6298]

Now if Fantasy Flight Games would just re-stock their out of stock pre-painted Arkham Files miniatures. I've been waiting over 2 years -- ever since I got a copy of Eldritch Horror -- for them to re-stock those things. Make it happen FFG. I will pay you money.

[@quasistellar]

Honestly they're not very good quality--but if you don't paint, then I get it. I bought some paints specifically for this game and I had a better paintjob than the Arkham ones on my very first try. Just watched two youtube videos covering dry brushing and washing and boom--easy peasy.

[@Straddllw]

The prepainted miniatures look terrible. I'm pretty sure I can do a better job painting them. There's way too much contrasting and bright colours. It should be dark and slimy. Look at the professionally painted miniatures for The Others: 7 Sins. That's what they should go for. Unfortunately, you just can't mass produce that level of detail. I'm looking forward to painting these myself.

[@anubis24354]

I know you made this comment 10 months ago, but I still wanted to make a note. I recently started painting my own miniatures. I have zero artistic skill. I actually do a decent job on miniatures. Don't get me wrong, there are some people that do things with miniatures that I cannot imagine ever being able to do, but with zero skill I can still do a decent job. My point is that you should give it a try yourself. Just buy a kit to test out your skills with and watch some videos from people like Rob (Dice Tower Network) or Sorastro to pick up some tips. You'll probably be surprised how easy it actually is to do a good job. It just requires a bit of patience. (and money, though if you are looking to buy pre-painted minis from FFG, you probably have at least a little extra cash on hand)

[@MikaelKKarlsson]

Crispy smooth video. What has happened? I kid, love it.

[@Demiarioch]

That was a GREAT (and passionate) review. Thank you!

[@Demovamon]

Duuude this game is so much fun! For all the people hating the fact that the game requires an app to play, I'm telling you that you need to try this out! It's a very streamlined game with the app giving a new sense of immersion. I've never played an app driven game before but decided to get a copy of my own to see how an app and boardgame collaborate with each other and it's great. It's a solid balance between the table and the app itself. If your ok with the huge price of the game(essentially you're paying for the app too) then I would dive in!

[@arturopignon1052]

Hi, I guess i am coming (very) late to the party but thank you for the video. Just watched the one on the equivalent for the Lord of the Rings. A possible idea for a future video (have not been able to find it) could be a of all the expansions? Not detailing the content of each one but more to see which ones could be more interesting etc? It's difficult to choose for someone who's got no idea like me.

[@boliveirabr]

Excellent image quality! Congrats for the upgrade!

[@saykhia]

Dice Tower. Please do a recorded play session of this! Especially with your table's built-in speakers :)

[@desertgamers6065]

lol love the judgement!

[@13shivan]

how about a live solo gameplay mr vasel?

[@TheBrokenMeeple]

I'm surprised the gavel didn't explode when he said "I like this solo" - I admit, this as a solo game is fantastic but even with players it's fantastic. It does have some replayability issues but it depends on how quickly we get some scenarios issued out.

[@maverickdelta]

Most epic "Shut the door!" And great review! Can't wait to get my hands on this!

[@chrishenderson3691]

What was that at the end, Tom? Sounds like you went a bit mad from playing solo? :)

[@freddyperez415]

I love the way Tom got Dr. Zoidburg to special guest the Dice Tower Judgement... getting this game NOW!!!!!!

[@barry1492]

Just want to say, I love your reviews. This is my go to site for game reviews.

[@paulorego9334]

Nice review Tom! Your reactions made me laugh in some places :) This game looks really interesting having never played the first. Can anyone comment on re-playability? Once you complete the 4 scenarios are you done? Seems very pricey if so but i'm guessing that's not the case. Thanks

[@jimsmith7445]

Thanks Tom! I own the first copy and all the expansions from that first set. I'm pretty fascinated to get this soon. You're right .... the app will make this a lot easier.

[@TooLateForIeago]

I'd pay for a dev kit or a paper supplement to guide you in making your own scenarios. Especially when we get to the point where Fantasy Flight no longer supports the app or ceases to exist.

[@NeoGenMike]

We got him, Zee! Tom's top 10 solo games comming up!

[@mikejonesnoreally]

Thanks for the great review, I have been playing a lot of Road to Legend and I am a big Elder Sign/Eldritch Horror fan. This looks great and perfect for us! Don't worry about getting rid of your old stuff I've seen two tile/miniature expansions already available for pre-order.

[@bookaddict777]

Very excited about this and cannot wait for my copy to get here!

[@EfrainRiveraJunior]

I got this game as an early Christmas gift this year. I'm excited.

[@Robachicos505]

Tom diciendo que lo ha jugado solo es todo lo que necesitaba para comprarlo

[@grahamtastic83]

Best judgement ever!

[@Hitpointsgaming]

App works with the game extremely well. Totally agree with you Tom, great game!

[@BarryDoubletBoardGames]

Welcome to CLUB SOLO PLAY Tom. The Descent app works good too

[@dreadknot69]

This looks like the way the Descent app operates. I find it greatly enhances the game and I really enjoy playing the co-op version of Descent. I'm sure I'd like the app in this game as well.

[@wroot_lt]

Having ice cream as the background sure helps with weight loss determination :)

[@TheFleahost]

One mistake during set up killed 1st edition for us. Hopefully this one is better.

[@GusDoyle]

Hi tom, im Brazilian, so sorry for any spell mistakes. This game is coming to my country, im very happy and ansious. But i have some Doubts, the only 4 scnearios get lame with the time? Feels better with the first mansions stuffs? Should i buy ( kind of expensive, R$ 350) . Thanks!

[@Rogerio_FM]

I think this will become more and more common, specially with 'companion' apps out there, there is a companion app for Eldritch Horror that replaces ALL encounter decks, you only need the Mystery and Mythos decks, it means that if you download the app you can set it for the expansions and have for free all the encounter decks. Sure, you wont have new investigators or mystery and mythos decks, but having all encounters for free is a big thing. And the problem is that, well, the app rocks, I have the expansions and I use the app because it saves a lot of time.

[@alekshewitt]

I'm going to try to get through Rising Tide today. 4+ hour session, should be fun on the 126th birthday of H. P. Lovecraft. #Cthulhugameday

[@urtoman]

Guys, the app is also free on steam, so plug your pc in the big tv and you'll have a blast. I play Descent 2.0 (app driven) on the tv and i must say that is fantastic. Still waiting for my copy of MoM, though.

[@facepalmjesus1608]

hmmm I just had an idea...Could I include a small session of Mansions of Madness to the Eldritch Horror expedition site? :D

[@Rinhammer]

wow! I'm going to get it for sure! Thanks Tom!

[@nikolaosvougioukas8405]

Hello guys!I just saw the review of this game.Its worth to buy this game?

[@jawshmurdock9604]

My review- Positives: It's an immersive and challenging game with plenty of exciting moments. Negatives: It's too long. Our game lasted 3.5 hours. And App glitches at the end. I also hit an irreversible "search" by accident on the app.

[@GamerLisa]

I just bought this at a garage sale with an expansion. 🎉😂 What a keeper. I love ❤ app games. It's just easier for me

[@lioneart19]

This is not (only) a board game, it's a hybrid new thing. I like it, because I don't see how a full videogame could be able to offer what the game offers in multiplayer fashion without being unengaging.

[@alfalpha243]

Great review. Really intresting to see how the app integrates into the game. Seems like we'll be seeing more of this sort of thing in the future. The end of fan made scenarios though I guess. unless it goes open source. As an aside do you think a something like TI3 would benefit from an app?

[@Mandrake42]

Oh the review here it says four players max but on the Fantasy Flight site it says five? Did they add an extra player or does it mean one player can play the "DM" so to speak?

[@adambeardsley4582]

Does this give a similar feel as Eldritch Horror? As a new gamer, who hasn't played either game, would Mansions of Madness be suggested over Eldritch Horror or can they not even be compared?

[@carstenmuscat3400]

I own the first edition and I like the idea of an app controlling the DM. It sounds like it has a good control over the possible the events and this is great for the atmosphere. But after this video I think it needs to much interaction with the app instead of the board. It would be great if the app would be an option and not a must.

[@BradfordStokes]

These games that come with an app begs the question of, will I be able to play this five years from now or ten?

[@dragonlord0078]

Hey Tom, do you think I should sell the first edition and the Call of the Wild expansion to get tjis edition, or are they a nice addition to this second edition. I really don't like the idea having to carry 3 boxes with me to play 1 game :p

[@Haladras]

You'll be getting an expansion tailored solely to 1st ed stuff. Besides, 1st ed isn't obsolete. One's DM driven and scalable and the other's a co-op.

[@eomat]

This is an absolute amazing game! The theme is just fantastic.

[@thehulkmadsmash6716]

I want this game so bad. Even just playing around with the app by itself was fun.

[@AndyVandercoy]

Solo!? Love it Tom. Welcome to the dark side muahaha

[@JD77ATH]

Great review Tom thanks I'm sold

[@MrSattawat]

I have the first edition with all the big box expansions... Do you guys think they will update the app so i can play the first edition with the app? By the way, the seconds edition looks so cool! A bit pricy but its worth the money!

[@Stephen-Fox]

How does it work solo game, considering you mention that the insanity cards introduce a traitor element to the game in the review? Just discard insanity cards that don't work solo if you draw them?

[@gurtana]

So, I take it there are no random mission/scenarios generated by the app? If I understood, the only randomiser is for items, monsters and character locations, but essentially it's the same story missions with the same dialogue segments? If you add your entire monster collection from the first edition, does the same scenario populate itself with completely different monsters each time?

[@Osborne4Life]

It doesn't matter how many investigators, monsters and tiles you add; it's the same scenario every time. However, the more components you have, the more procedurally generated the world is. You may know how the story goes, but it's still a blast to play because you don't know how the world will work.

[@acemind1]

They should definitely do something like this for imperial assault. That would totally reinvigorate my interest in that game.

[@imveryrich13]

I just wanted some clarification. So does this app need to be run by a separate individual that will not be acting as one of the possible 5 investigators? Or can the person running the app also be included in the group of investigators?

[@arenkai]

I might be too late but I play the game solo with my headphones on and the app on my phone. The App just walks you through the phases and serves as a reminder of triggers. It's not another game someone outside of the investigation group has to play, it is its own thing and anybody in the group can operate it to fight monster or check clues. It's even fantastic as a solo game and I've never been so immersed in a board game before.

[@AhJong0]

FFG continues to pioneer the combination of apps and games. Have you played the Road to Legend app for some Descent, Tom?

[@DigitalMagicianYT]

My game of the year so far!

[@lizzy6555]

You can play this on your own? Because i ordered it to do so sometimes. All my friends live too far away to see each other often .. :(

[@arenkai]

I got it for Christmas and have been playing solo this all time. It's a blast ! If Eldritch Horror is your thing, go for it, it's a fantastic solo experience :)

[@MadLadDesigns]

"Dice Tower judgement....." WTF!?!! :D

[@michaelhastriter3299]

I know! I watched it maybe 15 times!

[@peterterry7918]

Anyone know how to play that bit backwards? There might be a clue....

[@maverickdelta]

Kind of an accent there... I think he just summoned the great and holy mustachioed pancake. But I am sure that is not what he meant...

[@peterterry7918]

+maverickdelta Not sure. He has a bias against breakfast food. If you said cold cereal I would say you were wrong, but pancakes, that is possible....hmmm

[@peterterry7918]

+Peter Terry at least he is not condemning humanity to the great leftover cereal slurp at the end of the great universal breakfast. THAT could be messy.

[@GretSeat]

Is that a custom book shelf behind you or where do you get one with the exact dimensions for game boxes??

[@papadonut5706]

Garrett Stewart It's probably a kallax bookshelf, from ikea.

[@keel1701]

so, we know one of his Top Ten Solo Games now. Nine more to go!

[@vendetta124292]

Could this game be played entirely on the app? It seems like the physical board game components are an add-on and like you could play this entirely on a computer.

[@orendo]

Any chance FFG will reprint the 1st edition for those of us who'd like to use the investigators and monsters from there?

[@jonolsen8912]

It's coming this fall. Not reprints but as expansions to the second edition. www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/news/2016/8/12/a-horror-without-end/

[@glen7567]

Yes!! They have announced expansions for the second addition. The first expansion will give you the investigators, tiles and monsters from the 1st edition and the 2nd will give you all of those for the 2 big box 1st edition expansions!! These should be released 4th quarter this year! Don't go spending hundreds for 1st edition!

[@MysteryLarry]

Fantasy Flight is going to release tile packs that have the map tiles and investigator/monster miniatures from the first edition. One will have all the stuff from the 1st edition base game, the other will have the stuff from the two expansions.

[@Spudkitty513]

Is anyone else concerned that app-supported games can only be played as long as the app is available? Will we be able to play this game in 5, 10, or 15 years?

[@niro750]

I'll be too busy watching vr cat videos and the likes by then.

[@marcwebber3481]

I hope for the MSRP FFG puts out some more scenarios every couple of months.

[@玩物喪志-v5w]

Don't know why nobody compares this to Betrayal at house on hill...not sure if anyone has anything to recommend close to those mechanics but I feel these two games are likely the only ones I have seen with close mechanics

[@rondad621]

Could someone please clarify...so you have to buy the second edition of MoM to get a "conversion kit" to be able to use the first edition. What is the "conversion kit"? Is this a separate app? I was hoping to be able to purchase an app to use the first edition. I realize apps are epensive to make, and am more than willing to buy an app...I bought the first edition game shortly before the second edition was announced/available, and am not thrilled to have to spend $100 on another edition just to get the app part. (I can't return it...already punched out, but haven't had a chance to play yet.) What are the other differences in the two editions? Could I download the app and just use it with the first edition? Thanks for any help!

[@stevekrumpoch9676]

The app is free, but you need the components that comes with the second edition to play the game with the app. The conversion kit allows first edition owners to immediately incorporate additional investigators/monsters/tiles into their second edition play experience. Expansions released this fall will allow second edition only owners to get first edition content.

[@SethalaTheGamer]

Basically, you do need the 2nd edition components to play with the app. The 2nd edition comes with new tiles for the board, as well as entirely new cards and tokens, and new investigator sheets. A "conversion kit" wouldn't work, because none of the components in the 2nd edition of the game are identical to the 1st edition components. However, you can play with the 1st edition tiles, investigators, and monsters without any extra purchase beyond the 2nd edition box itself. The app is also free to download, so you don't have to pay extra for that. Essentially, while you need to buy 2nd edition to use the app, you're still getting value from the 1st edition stuff you own.

[@nightwishpower]

I dont really like miniatures, do you think I could just use the monsters cards/tiles on the board ?

[@robertmills7262]

Hated the idea of this, didnt want an app driven board game, not mad about first ed either. Tried it with a pc and projector, game played superbly with random events, invisible moves, theme, noises and decent voice over. So good tempted to grab a copy

[@TheCodsquallic]

Would the app be ok using an iPhone or only iPad?

[@EdmundLau68]

great review, especially the end lol

[@nicksims2827]

Great review, and made me want to check it out - until I discovered it's nearly £100 on UK Amazon. I appreciate that prices vary internationally (though it's still $85 on Cool Stuff), and that DT get free review copies, but I think this should factor in to reviews. I can get Betrayal, Colt Express and Pandemic for the same money - I appreciate that they're older games but it's hard to justify the money for this when there's so many other great games out there

[@SethalaTheGamer]

Yikes, that's high. MSRP on the game is $100, which should come to about 77 pounds (sorry, don't know how to do the symbol on my keyboard). I don't know how often prices for England are higher than the US, but it's not supposed to be that expensive...

[@embir82]

What is the point of paper board, chits and plastic models in this game? At this level of app dependence it should be just a full computer game.

[@kennethfharkin]

The app does not keep track of where you or the monsters are. The app does not deal or track damage or horror. The app does not track inventory. The app does not track where fire has spread to. There are many things the app does not do but which are tracked by the players with their character board or on the game board. If you want a full video game then there are plenty out there. This is a table top game for 1-5 people which uses an app to get rid of all the aggravation present in first edition. If you have never set up or run a first edition game then you need to go find some videos on what that entails. It was a major pain in the ass and the reason this game in first edition rarely made it to the table for many groups more than once.

[@Quantai88]

Hilarious judgement!! :D

[@misteryee]

That's it! Tom plays solo! He's a cultist and is summoning He Who Shall Not Be Named!

[@winnie666]

FFG could integrate everything in the app (the rolling, the card draw) and you could buy for $9.99 or $14.99 and it would be a superb game. but it's just a half done app and a box of obsolete components for $100. it's a great game, it's really an experience, but.... WHY? (Okay, I know the answer.)

[@LuckeeStrikee]

To be honest if you don't play it solo the board is kind of a necessity. For a solo game yes, having everything on the app would be much more convenient for multiple reasons.

[@dragonlord0078]

Wow, all the hating coming from people who haven't even tried it is so funny. I thought the board game community was nice, but seeing all these comments really saddens me (I know, I know, I shouldn't be generalizing and basing my opinions on the few comments I read, but still...)

[@Haladras]

Agreed. Depressing. If it's not their thing, then that's fine -- I denigrated one frequent commenter who privileged heavy games over lighter ones. It's also acceptable to voice concerns over the app-board ratio. But confirmation bias seems to be playing a role here. I bet that they'll deliver the same verdict *even if* they play it. How the game actually plays has no basis here. Well, de gustibus, etc. I'll be over here enjoying both editions, thankyewverymuch.

[@niro750]

All hobbies the same. Nothing is good enough. My god I hate the computer games forums. What a sad sad lot.

[@alekshewitt]

Time: 15 minutes? Is that for setup? :)

[@Teremei]

Anyone remember shrieks and Creaks cassette tape game? I love the idea of an app that can talk and have sound effects with a game. What other games are there like this?

[@emanoelmelo]

Why don't we play directly on the tablet already?

[@benjaminberhault2613]

It's not very clear in the rules books regarding where to put the fire tockens when the fire spreads eg: you can put it in an adjacent space yes; but which space ? (if you have more than 1 choice). Also it's not specified whether fire can spread across a wall; a door etc...

[@kennethfharkin]

You choose the space. On that I am certain. I believe it can spread across a wall or door but do not have the book in front of me.

[@trens]

what shelves do you use behind you?

[@LEGnewTube]

It wish this was website based rather than app based. An app is more likely to become obsolete. It also looks like the app would be super difficult to use on a phone. Not everyone has a large tablet…

[@jodymitchell1678]

Think I'm going to add Manch of Madnis back into my collection too. 21:25

[@MrPostm]

Shall we just drop the board game aspect and just sit in a ring around the tablet allready? Oh wait! That's a video game! *shakes head*

[@MrPostm]

My point is... If a game requires you to use the app THIS much, why not just make a video game outright? Don't agree? That's allright, it's just my opinion.

[@quasistellar]

Pfft, all board games should just use colored cubes and abstract boards. That'll show these punk kids and their electro-magneto-applicato games!

[@MedievalMusicintheDales]

There are powerful differences between video games and board games. While both can be utter fun and deeply enjoyable, one is basically a social game and the other isn't. One is a tactile game and the other isn't. Video games have the advantage of (often very deep) complexity and the potential for real time reactions. Adding the app to MoM 2 allows for greater complexity to be handled by the app without any danger of keeper error (all too common in 1st edition). It's a brilliant idea.

[@joshuasnell7942]

@@quasistellar There's a difference between a boardgame with digital elements and an app that renders the actual board 80% redundant

[@duggygee6387]

Normally I don't like the use of apps to play a board game, but for Mansions of Madness (2e) it makes sense. I played the 1st edition a few times, and if the Keeper made a mistake in setting up the game, you could discover late in the game that the players could not complete their objective. Secondly the app appears to streamline many of the aspects of the game, such as combat and puzzle solving. 1st edition was much more immersive than Arkham/Eldritch Horror, but the set-up and cumbersome mechanics kept it from being a masterpiece. It looks like the app will make this game shine.

[@AlwayzFresh]

A, I tripping or is there like 10 of these reviews from different people at Dice Tower?

[@panagiota7321]

can i convert the first edition to second edition ?

[@adamireland1627]

the implementation of apps into board games could go a bad direction by taking away from components and also possibly player imagination but, apps that act as dm so someone doesnt have to is great, an app that helps with tracking information is cool anything further than those two concepts i would feel would be pushing away from the point of boardgames a little too much

[@Haladras]

Kudos for a reasonable comment along these lines, sir.