Deep Rock Galactic, the cooperative board game adaptation of the popular video game, arrived on my doorstep a little later than its promised December 2022 Kickstarter delivery, landing in late January 2023. Just a month behind schedule in the world of Kickstarter board games feels like a win these days! Following on the heels of the timely arrival of Sentinels of the Multiverse: Rook City Renegades, it seems like on-time (or close to it) deliveries might just be making a comeback.
Unboxing the Deep Rock Galactic Board Game – First Look at the Box and Components for this Cooperative Mining Adventure
This Deep Rock Galactic Board Game plunges 1-4 players, aged 12 and up, into the roles of space dwarf miners on missions that last anywhere from 60 to 150 minutes. As someone completely new to the Deep Rock Galactic universe (having never played the video game), I approached this board game with fresh eyes and a simple desire: to experience the thrill of being a dwarf mining in the vastness of space. Let’s delve into the components and gameplay to see if this game delivers on that promise.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Components Laid Out – Rulebooks, Punchboards and Dwarf Player Boards Ready for Exploration
Unboxing the Galactic Treasure Trove: Components Overview
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Box Size Comparison – Huge Box Promises a Wealth of Components for Deep Rock Galactic
The first thing that strikes you about Deep Rock Galactic: The Board Game is the sheer size of the box. This thing is HUGE.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Box Compared to Thunderstone Quest – Sizeable Board Game Box for Deep Rock Galactic Fans
To give you some perspective, it even dwarfs the already substantial Thunderstone Quest box!
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Box with Coke Can for Scale – Visualizing the Impressive Size of the Deep Rock Galactic Box
Even with a soda can for scale, it’s hard to fully grasp the enormity until you see it in person.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Box Next to Coke Can – Emphasizing the Large Box Size of Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
Yes, this is a big box board game, and honestly, it’s a little intimidating upon first opening.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook and Mission Book – Exploring the Guides to Galactic Mining in Deep Rock Galactic
Upon cracking open this behemoth, you are greeted by two hefty books: the Rulebook and the Mission Book, your guides to the subterranean world of Hoxxes IV.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Close Up – Detail View of the Rulebook for Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Punchboards – Extensive Cardboard Punchboards Filled with Terrain and Tokens for Deep Rock Galactic
Next up: a mountain of cardboard punchboards. Prepare yourself for some serious punching!
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Punchboard Sheet – Close Up on the Punchboard Sheets Containing Components for Deep Rock Galactic
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Game Board – Unveiling the Game Board for Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
Tucked within the punchboards is the game board itself.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Folded Game Board – Showing the Folded Game Board for Deep Rock Galactic
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Terrain Punchouts – Cardboard Terrain Pieces Ready to be Punched for Deep Rock Galactic
Much of the cardboard transforms into the 3D terrain that populates the game board, creating the claustrophobic cave systems you’ll be navigating.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Punched Terrain Pieces – Assembled Cardboard Terrain Elements for Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
Crucially, within these punchboards, you’ll find the Hostile Creatures sheet. This sheet is essential, as it’s the only place where the game’s monstrous enemies are described and their stats are detailed. Even the rulebook itself lacks monster descriptions, making this punchboard your go-to guide for alien identification.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Hostile Creatures Punchboard – Critical Reference Sheet for Monster Stats and Abilities in Deep Rock Galactic
Beneath the cardboard layers are the individual Dwarf player boards. There are four unique dwarf classes represented in the game, each with their own board. These are nicely designed dual-layer boards, which are not only durable but also feature key rules and information printed directly on them for easy reference during gameplay.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Dwarf Player Boards – Dual Layer Boards with Class Specific Information for Deep Rock Galactic
Finally, buried deep within the box, are three plastic trays.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Plastic Trays – Component Storage Trays for Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
The top tray is neatly organized to hold the various cards, dice, and mineral tokens – essential for any self-respecting dwarf miner.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Cards, Dice and Mineral Tokens – Close Up of the Game Components in the Top Tray of Deep Rock Galactic
The middle tray is packed with miniatures, mostly representing the alien hostiles you’ll encounter in the depths.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Miniature Tray 1 – Tray Filled with Miniatures for Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
The bottom tray houses the larger miniatures, including some of the more imposing creatures you’ll face. These are chunky and well-detailed, adding a significant visual punch to the game.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Miniature Tray 2 – Tray Showing Larger Miniatures for Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
When you lay everything out on the table, it becomes clear why the box is so enormous. Deep Rock Galactic: The Board Game is brimming with components, creating a visually impressive and immersive tabletop experience.
Miniature Mayhem: Dwarves and Hostile Creatures
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Miniatures Overview – Showcasing the Variety of Miniatures in Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
While not strictly a miniatures game in the vein of Warhammer, Deep Rock Galactic certainly boasts a substantial miniature count. These aren’t just plastic pieces; they are nicely sculpted and bring the game’s theme to life.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Alien Miniatures – Close Up of the Detailed Alien Enemy Miniatures from Deep Rock Galactic
The majority of the miniatures represent the hostile alien creatures you’ll be battling within the caves, from swarming grunts to larger, more menacing foes.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Miniatures Tray – Showing the Miniature Storage Tray for Deep Rock Galactic
And of course, we can’t forget the dwarves themselves! Each of the four classes – Gunner, Driller, Engineer, and Scout – is represented by a distinct and characterful miniature.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Dwarf Miniatures – Dwarf Player Character Miniatures for Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Dwarf Miniatures Detail – Close Up View of the Dwarf Miniatures in Deep Rock Galactic
Overall, the miniatures significantly enhance the thematic immersion of Deep Rock Galactic. They are visually appealing and do a great job of representing the characters and creatures from the video game.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Scout Dwarf Miniature and Card – Comparing Miniature and Character Art for the Scout Dwarf in Deep Rock Galactic
The attention to detail is evident, with the miniatures closely matching their character art, like the Scout dwarf shown above.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Dwarf Miniatures Lineup – Side by Side View of All Four Dwarf Miniatures in Deep Rock Galactic
My only minor gripe with the miniatures is the lack of clear labeling for storage and identification. Figuring out which miniature was which and where they went in the trays required careful observation and, thankfully, a pre-emptive photo of the trays before unpacking everything. Colored bases or rings could have greatly improved miniature organization, similar to what we saw with Hour of Need, making it easier to differentiate between enemy types during gameplay.
Rulebook Rumble: Navigating the Caves of Confusion
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Close Up – Detail View of the Rulebook for Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
Now, let’s talk about the rulebook. While it’s clear the designers had good intentions, the Deep Rock Galactic board game rulebook is, unfortunately, a significant stumbling block. The more we played, the more apparent its shortcomings became, often leading to frustrating rule lookups and interpretations. However, it’s not all bad, and there are aspects where it does try to be helpful.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Index Page – First Page of the Rulebook Labeled as Index, More Like Table of Contents
It begins with an introduction that attempts to inject some humor, which is always appreciated. However, the “Index” on the first page functions more like a Table of Contents, outlining major sections rather than providing a comprehensive index for quick rule referencing. While organizational efforts are visible, the labeling is a bit off.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Component Page 1 – Component Overview Page in the Deep Rock Galactic Rulebook
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Component Page 2 – Second Page Detailing Components in the Deep Rock Galactic Rulebook
The subsequent pages dedicated to component descriptions are a definite plus. While not every single token and enemy type is labeled, it’s a reasonably thorough overview with pictures and labels for most components.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Game Flow Page – Overview of Game Flow and Turn Structure in Deep Rock Galactic Rulebook
The game flow and overview section is well-presented, giving a good sense of the game’s structure. Setup instructions could be clearer, but again, the rulebook tries to use labels and visual aids.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Setup Page 1
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Setup Page 2
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Setup Page 3
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Gameplay Page 1
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Gameplay Page 2
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Gameplay Page 3
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Combat Page 1
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Combat Page 2
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Enemy Actions Page 1
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Enemy Actions Page 2
The rulebook’s effort to include tables and illustrations is commendable, demonstrating a desire to be helpful. It feels like it’s trying to do the right things to explain the game.
However, the rulebook falls short in clarity and completeness. While dwarf actions and combat initiation are reasonably explained, rules for enemy actions and combat initiated by the hostile creatures are vague and poorly defined. Questions like “Hey, roll the Chompy dice… where was that in the rules?” arose frequently. The crucial Hostile Creature sheet, detailing monster stats, is never properly explained within the rulebook itself.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Hostile Creatures Stat Sheet – Critical Game Reference Sheet for Enemy Stats in Deep Rock Galactic
This chart is critical to playing the game, yet there’s no breakdown of its notation in the rulebook. You’re left to infer that the diamond symbol represents hit points, “R” indicates range, and “M” signifies movement. Notations per creature are unclear, mirroring a similar issue we encountered in Batman: The Animated Series Game with enemy health tracking. When dealing with multiple enemies, how do you effectively track individual health, especially as creatures move around the board? The rulebook vaguely suggests “put health tokens next to the creature“, but practical implementation in dynamic scenarios is lacking.
Despite its flaws, the rulebook’s attempts at humor and its efforts to provide visual aids helped to mitigate some of the frustration. It’s a 1-or-2 “GRRR” rulebook – frustrating, but not rage-inducing. While I didn’t love the rulebook, I was willing to forgive many of its shortcomings, at least initially. The information is mostly there, with good intentions evident in the charts and examples. However, it desperately needs another pass for clarity and completeness. The longer we played, the more frustrating it became to constantly search for rules that were either missing or poorly explained.
Gameplay Gems: Mining and Mayhem in Motion
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Gameplay Setup – Game Board and Components Ready for a Mining Mission in Deep Rock Galactic
Once you overcome the initial intimidation of the box size, miniatures, and rulebook quirks, Deep Rock Galactic gameplay itself is surprisingly smooth and fast-paced. The core mechanics are not overly complex.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Gameplay Summary – Back of Rulebook Summarizing Game Phases in Deep Rock Galactic
The back of the rulebook provides a handy gameplay summary: Action/Event/Action/Event… until victory or defeat. Once you grasp the flow, the game moves along quite nicely.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook End Game Conditions – Page Detailing Win and Loss Conditions in Deep Rock Galactic
Victory and defeat conditions are clearly outlined. Dwarves typically win by completing their mission objectives (usually mining resources and returning to the starting location). Loss occurs if all dwarves are incapacitated or if the swarm track reaches its end.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Swarm Track – Tracking Enemy Swarms and Pressure in Deep Rock Galactic
Players each embody a unique dwarf class:
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Engineer Dwarf Board – Engineer Dwarf Player Board with Unique Abilities in Deep Rock Galactic
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Gunner Dwarf Board – Gunner Dwarf Player Board Showing Weapons and Skills in Deep Rock Galactic
Each dwarf class possesses distinct powers and weapon loadouts, offering varied playstyles for tackling the subterranean threats.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Secondary Weapons Selection – Choosing Secondary Weapons for Dwarves in Deep Rock Galactic
Dwarves also select a secondary weapon to further customize their combat capabilities from a shared pool.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Overclocked Weapons 1
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Overclocked Weapons 2
The game injects humor with elements like “overclocked” weapon upgrades, a clear nod to the video game’s mechanics.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Throwable Grenade Card – Example of a Throwable Grenade One Shot Card for Dwarves in Deep Rock Galactic
Each dwarf also starts with two one-shot cards: a Throwable (grenade) for explosive situations.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rock and Stone Card – Iconic Rock and Stone One Shot Card for Deep Rock Galactic
…and the iconic “Rock and Stone” card, a fun thematic touch.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rock and Stone Card Detail – Close Up of the Rock and Stone Card from Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
These cards, combined with their unique class abilities and weapons, form the dwarves’ arsenal and tools for survival.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Mission Setup Example – Mission Book Example Showing Game Setup for Deep Rock Galactic
Mission setup from the Mission Book guides you through board configuration and objective setup for each scenario.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Mission Book Example – Mission Objectives and Setup Details in the Mission Book for Deep Rock Galactic
Dwarves typically have three action points per turn to spend on essential actions: Move, Mine, or Fight.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Dwarf Actions Icons – Move, Mine, and Fight Action Icons for Dwarves in Deep Rock Galactic
MINE: Mining actions allow dwarves to gather shared resources, deposit them into the MULE (Mobile Uplink Equipment), carve new paths through terrain, or collect objectives.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Mining Action – Dwarf Mining for Resources in Deep Rock Galactic
MOVE: Movement allows dwarves to navigate the cave system, seeking out mineral deposits and mission objectives. Stalagmites and pits impede progress but can be mined through.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Movement Action – Dwarf Moving Through Cave Terrain in Deep Rock Galactic
FIGHT: Combat is a crucial element. Each weapon has a range and a set of custom dice used for attacks.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Combat Dice – Custom Dice Used for Combat in Deep Rock Galactic
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Bulldog Revolver Weapon Card – Example Weapon Card Showing Stats and Dice for Deep Rock Galactic
For example, the Bulldog Heavy Revolver has a range of 5 and uses the blue die for attacks. Dice results include hits, misses (empty faces), and other special effects.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Damage Tracking – Tracking Damage on Enemy Miniatures in Deep Rock Galactic
Damage is persistent, requiring multiple attacks to defeat tougher enemies.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Event Card Example – Example Event Card from the Bad News Deck in Deep Rock Galactic
After each dwarf’s turn, an Event card is drawn from the “Bad News” deck. These cards typically advance the swarm track and introduce other challenges and surprises.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Swarm Track – Tracking Enemy Swarms and Pressure in Deep Rock Galactic
When the swarm track reaches a creature icon, a Swarm card is drawn.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Swarm Card Example – Example Swarm Card Adding Enemies to the Board in Deep Rock Galactic
Swarm cards usually unleash more enemies onto the board, increasing the pressure on the dwarf miners.
Then, the next dwarf takes their turn, and the cycle repeats. Dwarf turn, Event card, next dwarf turn, Event card… until the mission concludes.
While the initial impression might be overwhelming due to the box size, component count, and rulebook length, the core gameplay loop of Deep Rock Galactic is surprisingly straightforward and engaging.
Solo Mining Ventures: Digging Alone with BOSCO
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Solo Play Components – Components for Solo Mode in Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
Fortunately for lone miners, Deep Rock Galactic embraces Saunders’ Law (all cooperative games should have a solo mode) and includes several options for solo play. The most direct approach is controlling two dwarves and alternating turns between them. Alternatively, you can play with a single dwarf and utilize BOSCO, a simplified robot companion.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Throwable Grenade Card – Example of a Throwable Grenade One Shot Card for Dwarves in Deep Rock Galactic
BOSCO acts as a helpful assistant, almost like another dwarf, but with simplified rules. BOSCO cannot be killed (unless reviving you) and has unlimited ammo. Solo rules and BOSCO’s mechanics are explained in about a page and a half of the rulebook. While I often prefer controlling two characters in solo games, the complexity of each dwarf class in Deep Rock Galactic led me to opt for the simplified BOSCO rules for my first solo playthrough.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Scout Dwarf Miniature and Card – Comparing Miniature and Character Art for the Scout Dwarf in Deep Rock Galactic
Looking at the Scout dwarf board, with its special abilities like Light-Footed, Grappling Hook, Flare Shot, and primary/secondary weapons, it’s clear each dwarf requires some cognitive load. Even playing a single dwarf, I found myself forgetting to utilize all the special abilities until late in the game. The streamlined BOSCO rules proved to be a good choice for a first solo experience. While managing two dwarves solo is certainly possible, BOSCO offers a more accessible entry point.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Solo Play in Progress – Solo Gameplay Scenario with BOSCO in Deep Rock Galactic
My initial solo mission was surprisingly engaging, feeling almost like a mini-narrative unfolding on the tabletop.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Solo Play Start – Game Setup for Solo Play Scenario in Deep Rock Galactic
“Me and BOSCO beamed down to the planet.”
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Movement Action – Dwarf Moving Through Cave Terrain in Deep Rock Galactic
“Our first priority was taking out the Grunt spiders at the front.”
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Solo Play Grenade – Using a Throwable Grenade to Clear Obstacles and Enemies in Deep Rock Galactic Solo Play
“A well-launched throwable (SOIL SMASHER) did what we needed and took them (and some Stalagtites) out!”
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Solo Play Mining – BOSCO Mining Resources in Solo Play of Deep Rock Galactic
“Our next priority was to start finding the things we needed to accomplish our mission!”
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Mining Action – Dwarf Mining for Resources in Deep Rock Galactic
“BOSCO can’t pick up stuff, he can only mine it for me so I can take care of other things. So he went out ahead to start doing some mining while I searched for the Apoca Blooms we needed.”
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Solo Play Enemy Swarm – Encountering More Enemies in Deep Rock Galactic Solo Play
“That worked well, until some really snarky creatures appeared!”
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Solo Play Exit Strategy – Dwarves Racing to the Exit in Deep Rock Galactic Solo Play
“After we had a few more firefights, we raced to the exit: we choose NOT to fight the Spitball Infector and just ran to the exit!”
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Solo Play Victory – Successful Solo Mission in Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
“Me and BOSCO made it out of there alive … I wonder how we would have fared if we fought the Spitball…”
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Solo Play Post Game – Post Game State of a Solo Mission in Deep Rock Galactic
The solo game was enjoyable. BOSCO was easy to manage, turns flowed smoothly, and the “Bad News” deck provided consistent challenges without excessive overhead. Gameplay was generally quick, though the rulebook did cause occasional pauses for clarification, halting the momentum. Hopefully, rules familiarity will alleviate this in future plays, but some rulings required on-the-fly interpretations (“I think this means that: let’s just move forward“). A better rulebook would significantly enhance the experience. Playing as a Galactic Dwarf was fun, and I would definitely play solo again.
Cooperative Cave Crawling: Teamwork and Rulebook Tribulations
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Cooperative Gameplay – Three Player Cooperative Game of Deep Rock Galactic in Progress
Unfortunately, the rulebook issues became even more pronounced during cooperative play. Every action seemed to trigger rules questions and the need for clarifications. Issues I might have overlooked in solo play became glaringly obvious in a group setting. ““Pass me the rulebook while you take your turn, and I’ll try to find that rule!” became a common refrain.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Cooperative Gameplay Rulebook Check – Players Consulting the Rulebook During Cooperative Play of Deep Rock Galactic
We appreciated the distinctiveness of each dwarf class and their unique abilities. One player chose the Engineer.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Engineer Player in Cooperative Game – Engineer Player Engaged in Cooperative Deep Rock Galactic Gameplay
With three players, the game fit comfortably on the table. A fourth player might have required significant table rearrangement, perhaps even exceeding the available space.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Three Player Setup – Table Setup for a Three Player Game of Deep Rock Galactic
The absence of player reference cards was keenly felt. “There’s no player reference cards!!!” exclaimed one player, highlighting the constant need to pass the rulebook around. I joked that the rulebook deserved to be sleeved, as it was handled more than any cards!
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Table Presence – Visually Impressive Table Presence of Deep Rock Galactic in Cooperative Play
Despite the rulebook frustrations, Deep Rock Galactic does have a visually impressive table presence when set up for a 3-player game.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook Consultation in Cooperative Play – Players Checking Rules During Cooperative Deep Rock Galactic Gameplay
Rulebook consultations became a frequent occurrence, slowing down the gameplay as players sought clarifications.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Cooperative Gameplay Slowed by Rulebook – Rulebook Hindering the Flow of Cooperative Deep Rock Galactic Gameplay
In essence, our cooperative experience was defined by moments of fun interspersed with frequent rulebook interruptions.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Extended Playtime – Scenario 2 Taking Three Hours Due to Rulebook Issues in Deep Rock Galactic
While we had some enjoyable moments, Scenario 2 with three players stretched to three hours! Admittedly, it was a learning game, but I had prior solo experience and was able to teach the core mechanics. My friends are also experienced gamers.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Post Game Debrief – Players Discussing their Cooperative Deep Rock Galactic Experience
When I directly asked my friends if they would play again, the response was a lukewarm “sure, but I wouldn’t suggest it.” The primary hesitation stemmed from the rulebook frustrations.
Dwarven Dice Chucking: Thematic Romp or Strategic Mine?
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Dwarf Miniatures Close Up – Thematic Dwarf Miniatures in Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
Deep Rock Galactic is undeniably a thematic game. While miniatures enhance the theme, it’s not a complex miniatures-driven experience. It’s a dice-chucking, thematic, “pick-up-and-deliver” game with a focus on combat. Combat relies heavily on dice rolls, introducing inherent randomness that can sometimes lead to frustrating outcomes.
The Siege of Runedar Board Game Box – Box Art for the Dwarf Themed Board Game The Siege of Runedar
We recently reviewed another dwarf-themed game, The Siege of Runedar by Reiner Knizia. One of my criticisms of Runedar was potential dice randomness. However, after playing Deep Rock Galactic, I gained a new appreciation for the more controlled randomness in Siege of Runedar compared to the more chaotic dice-chucking in Deep Rock Galactic. While I still feel Runedar could benefit from card retention between rounds to mitigate randomness, it now seems significantly less random in comparison.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Combat Dice – Custom Dice Used for Combat in Deep Rock Galactic
Deep Rock Galactic embraces its identity as a thematic dice-chucker. It’s intended to be light, fun, fast-paced, and a bit of a chaotic romp. Randomness is part of the intended experience.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Components and Dice – Overview of Game Components and Dice for Deep Rock Galactic
If I’m in the mood for a lightweight, dice-chucking dwarf adventure, Deep Rock Galactic fits the bill. It’s thematic, visually appealing with its miniatures and components, and has a good gameplay flow once you internalize the rules. In that mood, it’s a solid 7/10 game. However, when I crave a more strategic experience with clearer rules, Deep Rock Galactic drops to a 6/10. “It’s just too random, and the rulebook should have been much better,” I think. In those moments, I’d reach for The Siege of Runedar, even while lamenting its lack of thematic flair: “I wish Siege of Runedar had some awesomeness from Deep Rock Galactic.”
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Rulebook and Mission Book – Exploring the Guides to Galactic Mining in Deep Rock Galactic
Ultimately, your enjoyment of Deep Rock Galactic will depend on your mood and preferences. Are you seeking a thematic, dice-driven romp, or a strategic, tightly controlled experience?
Conclusion: Mining for a Verdict
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Box with Coke Can for Scale – Visualizing the Impressive Size of the Deep Rock Galactic Box
My feelings on Deep Rock Galactic are mixed, fluctuating depending on my gaming mood. For a lightweight, dice-chucking, mining, and monster-fighting experience, it’s a fun choice. The game’s components and miniatures are fantastic, creating a strong thematic presence. The gameplay flows well once you navigate the rulebook hurdles. In that mindset, it’s a solid 7/10.
However, when I desire more strategic depth and clearer rules, Deep Rock Galactic slips to a 6/10. The randomness and rulebook shortcomings become more pronounced. In those moments, I’d prefer The Siege of Runedar, wishing it had some of the thematic richness of Deep Rock Galactic.
The choice is yours: what kind of dwarven adventure are you in the mood for?
To conclude, here’s a direct quote from Sam, one of my co-players, who texted me his thoughts after playing:
Thoughts:
I’ll rate deep rock galactic a 6 – I had fun as the gunner and spraying bullets at the enemies but wish the rules were better organized and clarified. I like that everyone was unique and specialized even if we didn’t use our abilities to the fullest.
Would bump up to 7 if there was a good faq/errata/reference. Would play again if others were inclined (and might suggest it if we found a good faq/errata/reference)
(Interestingly, Teresa, another player, independently echoed the sentiment: “6, maybe would upgrade to 7 if rules were better”)
UPDATE: Surprisingly, I’ve gotten Deep Rock Galactic back to the table since writing the initial review. And you know what? It was more fun than I remembered! Playing with someone who loves the video game added a new layer of thematic appreciation and understanding. Rulebook issues persisted, but we discovered helpful online resources: player aids, extra PDF rulebooks (having a digital rulebook on a phone was surprisingly useful), and more information.
While the rulebook remains imperfect, the availability of online support has improved the experience significantly. My rating has nudged up to a 7/10. I strongly recommend seeking out online resources before playing. We had a great time! And if you’re a fan of the video game, the thematic resonance might push it up to an 8/10. I anticipate Deep Rock Galactic will see more table time at future game nights, and I’m looking forward to it.
Appendix A: Game Mat Musings
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Game Mat – Deep Rock Galactic Game Mat Accessory for Board Game
For the Kickstarter, I opted for the game mat add-on.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Game Mat on Table – Game Mat in Use for Deep Rock Galactic Board Game
It looks fantastic on the table, adding a premium feel. You can distinguish it as a mat by its rounded corners.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Game Mat and Board Comparison – Side by Side Comparison of Game Mat and Board for Deep Rock Galactic
However, the game includes a standard board as well.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Game Board Detail – Detail View of the Game Board Included with Deep Rock Galactic
The board is identifiable by its square corners.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Game Mat and Board Overlap – Game Board Placed on Top of Game Mat Showing Identical Design
The game mat and board are virtually identical in design! In the image above, the board is placed on top of the mat, with the mat slightly visible at the edges.
I appreciate game mats that offer unique functionality or organization. However, this mat is simply a replica of the board. The only practical difference is that the board can be slightly extended off the table edge for more player space, while the mat must remain fully on the table.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Board Edge Extension – Game Board Extending Slightly Off Table Edge for More Space
The board’s ability to overhang the table slightly can actually provide more usable player space. While the game mat is high quality and visually appealing, it doesn’t significantly enhance the gameplay experience. I prefer game mats that offer added utility, like the Aeon’s End mat that aids in card organization.
Aeon's End Game Mat Example – Aeon's End Game Mat with Card Organization Features
The Deep Rock Galactic game mat is not essential. While aesthetically pleasing and spongey, it offers no functional advantage over the included board, and might even reduce usable table space in this already large game. If you prefer game mats in general, it’s a nice-to-have, but not a must-buy.
Appendix B: Repacking Rock Solid
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Repacking Components – Components Ready for Repacking into Deep Rock Galactic Box
Fitting everything back into the box can be a slight puzzle. I initially struggled until I realized the solution: reusing the punchout skeletons to contain the larger terrain pieces. Not the small terrain pieces, but the larger sections with approximately 8 hexes or more.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Repacking Terrain in Punchboards – Using Punchboard Skeletons to Organize Terrain Pieces for Repacking Deep Rock Galactic
By placing the larger terrain pieces back into the punchout skeletons, all components fit snugly and securely within the box.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Components and Dice – Overview of Game Components and Dice for Deep Rock Galactic
Without the punchout skeletons, the terrain pieces tend to shift and make efficient repacking difficult.
Deep Rock Galactic Board Game Terrain Pieces Loose – Terrain Pieces Without Punchboard Organization Making Repacking Difficult
Using the punchout skeletons requires a little extra effort during repacking, but it ensures a well-organized box and allows the rulebook and mission book to lay flat.
Caveat Emptor: I am a strong advocate for keeping punchout skeletons, as detailed in our blog entry. This is yet another compelling reason to retain your punchout skeletons: controlled storage of larger terrain components for easier repacking.
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