Overview
The Far Wilds (www.thefarwilds.com) is a free online computer game that combines elements of collectible card games and miniature figurines on a hexagonal board of randomly generated terrain. Players vie for control of "Flux Wells" which help supply the resources needed to cast spells, enchantments, creatures, and buildings. Players attempt to control more Flux Wells than their opponent to earn "Glory" at the end of each round. This turn-based strategy game is won by accumulating the necessary amount of Glory. The game may be played in Flash with any internet browser, or through a downloadable 3D application. The Far Wilds offers a variety of play formats, including sealed, draft, constructed, leagues, tournaments and even occasional "Grand Clash" tournaments with cash prizes.
Gameplay
The most unique aspect of gameplay in The Far Wilds is the marriage of cards, figures and terrain. This combination of familiar elements creates a perpetually unique and complex gameplay that sets The Far Wilds apart from all other CCGs. Players begin with a limited view of the board, and choose to construct their first building to control one of two flux wells visible to them. From then on, players must depend on the "Vision" of their "Figures" (buildings and creatures) to penetrate the fog of war and capture additional Flux Wells. Each Figure has five statistics: Attack, HP/Maximum HP, Speed, Vision, and Range. Figures move based on their Speed, but depending on the random terrain, they may move more slowly or quickly. There are many terrain types in The Far Wilds, including: Plains, Hills, Mountains, Desert, Ocean, Forests, Swamp, and several more combinations of these terrain types (i.e. Forested Mountains). Flux wells appear in consistent locations depending on the size of the board and the number of Flux Wells in play, but since the terrain is randomly generated at the start of each match, every game is unique. The game controls in The Far Wilds are simple and easy to learn. Each command can be executed with a few clicks of the mouse. To get new players started, The Far Wilds provides three default decks, tutorials, and a challenging computer opponent to play against.
The Cards, Market, and Trading
Like all collectible card games, players collect, trade, and purchase cards to build decks. Cards are purchased with "Gold" which can be bought, or earned in free competitions. The four primary factions of the game are: Dark Legion, Elemental, Mountain Folk, and Sylvan. Each faction is represented by a different "Domain", and each Domain has a unique set of strengths, weaknesses, and abilities. The initial set contains 289 cards, and a second set is scheduled for release within the next few months. Although players may trade cards directly, the easiest way to exchange cards is through the “Market”. The Market allows players to buy and sell cards to other players for gold. The Market also allows players to see all the cards available, and place bids on cards they want, even if copies of the card are not currently in stock. Since players from around the world have begun playing The Far Wilds, the Market provides a means to exchange cards without being logged in. Unlike standard CCGs, the forum community provides input to the developers to help create and balance the cards in each set. The Far Wilds has a lively community that generates ideas for cards, game features, and enhancements. The development team is open to community feedback, and has agreed to reward players for submitting card art, card ideas, or other work that improves or enhances the gaming experience.
Variety of Play Formats
Most players begin their adventure into The Far Wilds by playing against computer opponents, but the game offers multiple play formats. Constructed, Sealed, Draft and Custom formats are available. Every five hours a free Constructed tournament is held with gold prizes. Players can create their own play style by changing format, victory requirements, map size, and a number of other game settings. Several draft and sealed games are available at all times of day, and league play runs over periods of one to four weeks. For veteran players, some leagues and certain play formats require entry fees that are used to fund large prize pools.
You Should Try This Game If...
Any fan of CCGs, turn-based strategy, mini-fig battles, chess, or Nintendo's Advance Wars will find elements of The Far Wilds familiar and appealing. The Far Wilds is easy to learn, but difficult to master. Card variety, random terrain, and a large community of inventive opponents makes each game absolutely unique. Similar to chess, the flow of a game can vary greatly due to the skill of the combatants, but even great players occasionally find themselves at a disadvantage because of terrain obstacles, or the cards both players happen to draw. The Far Wilds is a strategy-intensive showdown of fantasy, guts, diligence, and glory.
