Dynamic Models and Epic Battles: A Quick Look at Mythic Games' latest Kickstarter: Anastyr

A few years back, prior to the pandemic, I became enamored by the artistic efforts that go into making world building board games that are filled with lore-filled story lines and amazing table presence. One of the elements that brought the table presence to life is the inclusion of miniatures. I grew up loving statues and models and seeing them in a tangible format that allows you the opportunity to interact with a story using them caught my interest. In one of my previous posts a few years ago, I discussed a title called Time of Legends: Joan of Arc. I shared that a French developer, Mythic Games, had capture the concept of allowing one to fight with minis based on medieval Europe. The stories ranged from historic events to mythological battles. I was able to get my copy a month or so ago. Sadly, before I could get a chance to play it, Mythic has tempted me with a few more titles from their company, including their current campaign on Kickstarter.

Anastyr is a scenario based game that places you on a battlefield of Barbaric proportions. You your character does not only fight with sword and shield, but also on the back of beasts on land and in the air. From battling warriors on feet to fighting giants, your heroes has to combat incredible odds to make it though the scenario of the battle.

The core game allows you to choose from six heroes. From Undraal the Shaman to Pyrah the archer, you can experience the game from the perspective of different characters. At this time, I’m not sure how the narrative will be impacted by the characters chosen but the abilities of your characters will vary. Understanding the characters abilities can help you choose which characters you want to bring to the table and how to prevent one of the end game conditions. If two of your heroes die, you lose the game. The other condition to lose the game if you run out of event cards in the event deck while trying to complete the objectives on your quest cards.

Like with their previous games, Mythic Games has connected with an amazing artist to bring the world of Anastyr to board gamers’ table. Paolo Parente is the art director of Anastyr and the creator of this universe. He has done art work for some of the other Mythic Games titles but this one seems to be his own universe. The amazing thing about the miniatures that are being created for this title is that the minis have a level of dynamic motion as Parente’s art. Some of the models can be swapped out with a crouching version that could be attached to a magnetic dragon mini. Also, Mythic Games including some models that include multiple plastics (PVC and ABS) that provide a high level of detail while also providing the strength needed in order to help certain parts to be “more rigid and less prone to bending.” They are also using different plastics to help with some of the looks of the terrain elements.

Should you back this game?

On the business side, Mythic Games has successfully delivered on seven previous projects. While they did complete their projects, there were some issues with some of their deliveries. Having some shipping issues is not solely a Mythic Games issue, specially in a world post COVID-19. While some have had some issues with customer service, my personal experience has been positive. The pandemic did cause a delay with the shipping of Time of Legends: Joan of Arc 1.5, I did receive my order as requested and Mythic is currently working to replace any missing and/or damaged parts. Another valid concern that some have is that Mythic still has a few other games that have yet to ship. Again, most of the delay is due to the pandemic but it’s still something that can be a bother: why give more money for future projects when some completed projects are still delayed.

As for the game itself, the beauty of the miniatures along with the gameplay and theme makes Anastyr a game that would be fun as a solo title or as a game with three of your gaming friends. Personally, I’m looking forward to playing the title solo and with my wife. Mythic has done a good job with spotlighting gameplay with their own Sam Healey and with other content creators on Youtube. The art design reminds me of titles like Blood Rage and HATE from CMON but with it’s own twist. Along with the beautiful design and theme, the early reviews of the prototype versions of the game seem very solid as well. With all of these positives in Anastyr’s favor, I would be hard pressed not to encourage anyone to consider adding this title to their gaming shelf. The main drawback I could harp on is that you will have to wait until next year to play this title but that’s due to the nature of most Kickstarter games: pay to help bring the game to light and wait for the title to be produced. Also, you may run the danger of not being interested in the game after the long wait but that concern can be with any hobby or interest.

While the wait can be tough, you are getting a lot for your money. Most of Mythic Games’ titles rarely make it to traditional retail or your FLGS (friendly local gaming store). Mythic sometimes sell some of their titles on their site and at conventions but the prices are usually higher. Along with the core game, you are also going to be provided with a free expansion, additional scenarios, and miniatures to help flesh our the your experience with Anastyr.

So, how much time is left in this campaign? Not much at all. As of the publishing of this post, there is only 60 hours left to pledge. If what I shared sparked any interest, check out the following link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1162110258/anastyr If you missed out, no worries. Keep an eye out for any potential late pledge opportunities in the future.