BoardGame Verdict
88

Pax Pamir: Second Edition(Second Edition)

(2019)

Wehrlegig Games

In Pax Pamir, players assume the role of nineteenth century Afghan leaders attempting to forge a new state after the collapse of the Durrani Empire. Set during 'The Great Game', this interactive history lesson captures the complexity and tension of Afghan politics where loyalty is fluid and power is constantly in flux.

88

The Verdict

based on 26 reviews

Positive 0%
Negative 0%
Stunning production quality with a cloth map, resin pieces, and evocative art that creates a strong table presence.
Deep and nuanced strategic gameplay that encourages clever, tactical play and adapting to a constantly changing board state.
Highly interactive and tense, focusing on player-driven narratives of betrayal, fragile alliances, and subtle manipulation.
Unique and well-integrated historical theme that is both educational and engaging.
Relatively streamlined rules that make it easier to teach than its strategic depth would suggest.
The game's strategic complexity and opaque nature can be difficult for new players to grasp, requiring multiple plays to understand fully.
The gameplay can be punishing and confrontational, which may not appeal to players who dislike direct conflict or 'take that' mechanics.
It is best played with a dedicated group of similarly invested players, as its niche theme and demanding gameplay might not suit all tastes.
The game state can be difficult to track at higher player counts, potentially leading to analysis paralysis and a chaotic experience.
100
There Will Be Games, Oliver KinneArticle

Pax Pamir: Second Edition isn't just a passion project for the designer, but it feels like a passion project for me, as a player. Allow it the time it needs to bloom and you will experience an amazingly exciting and engrossing game that will keep you entertained and continue to teach you new things for a very long time to come.

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100
Tabletop Gaming Magazine, Matt JarvisArticleTop List

Tabletop Gaming Magazine praised Pax Pamir: Second Edition as an endlessly fascinating game that rewards commitment with immense depth, constantly inviting players to explore its intricate web of alliances and betrayals.

See list
100
3 Minute Board Games, Mason SokolVideo

The reviewer enthusiastically praises Pax Pamir: Second Edition as a near-perfect game and a strong contender for game of the year, highlighting its gorgeous production, engaging alliance mechanics, and evocative yet accessible rules.

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95
Board to Death TVVideo

The reviewer praises Pax Pamir: Second Edition for its superb components, beautiful artwork, and deep, engaging gameplay that offers significant replayability, despite the potential for analysis paralysis due to numerous strategic choices.

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95
Cardboard Rhino, Cardboard RhinoVideo

The reviewer considers Pax Pamir: Second Edition a fantastic and deeply thematic game that blew them away with its beautiful presentation, excellent mechanics, and engaging political conflict, despite its inherent complexity and potential for player betrayal.

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95
No Pun Included, No Pun IncludedVideo

The reviewer highly praises Pax Pamir: Second Edition as a uniquely compelling and strategically rewarding game that creates dramatic, unforgettable experiences through its intricate design of shifting allegiances and complex player interactions.

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95
DicebreakerArticle

Either way, this is where Pax Pamir announces itself as not only an utter delight to play, but also one of the most important games of the year.

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95
Tabletop Games BlogArticle

Allow it the time it needs to bloom and you will experience an amazingly exciting and engrossing game that will keep you entertained and continue to teach you new things for a very long time to come.

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90
Rahdo Runs Through, SheaVideo

The reviewer was highly impressed with Pax Pamir: Second Edition, praising its cohesive design where all elements fit together meaningfully and every layer of complexity serves a valuable purpose, creating a compelling and well-integrated experience.

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90
Topping the Table, Jamie HopkinsArticle

Pax Pamir: Second Edition offers a deep and engaging gameplay experience. By familiarizing yourself with these core rules, you will be well-equipped to enter the intricate world of politics and strategy, compete for dominance, and emerge victorious in this captivating game.

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90
Frank N Dice, Frank N DiceVideo

The reviewer highly recommends Pax Pamir: Second Edition, praising its exceptional components, strong historical theme, engaging tight scoring, and high player interaction, considering it an amazing and unique blend of tableau building and area control.

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90
Roll To Review, David NorrisArticle

Pax Pamir Second Edition is a wonderful board game that provides a premium experience. From the excellent components to the intricate gameplay to the in-depth information about The Great Game.

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