Near and Far: Box Cover Front
Near and Far - Near and Far, Red Raven Games, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Near and Far - Near and Far adventurers - Credit: benjilb
Near and Far - Colored plastic stands - Credit: benjilb
Near and Far - Look familiar? - Credit: The Innocent
  1. Near and Far: Box Cover Front
  2. Near and Far - Near and Far, Red Raven Games, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
  3. Near and Far - Near and Far adventurers - Credit: benjilb
  4. Near and Far - Colored plastic stands - Credit: benjilb
  5. Near and Far - Look familiar? - Credit: The Innocent

Near and Far Review

In Near and Far, embark on an immersive journey filled with strategic choices, enchanting storytelling, stunning artwork, and boundless replayability. A captivating game that offers a truly exceptional gaming experience.
  • Gameplay mechanics
  • Storytelling elements
  • Artwork and design
  • Replayability
4.7/5Overall Score

Quick Summary

Near and Far is an immersive and strategic board game that combines engaging gameplay mechanics, captivating storytelling, stunning artwork, and endless replayability. With its unique exploration elements, players can embark on epic quests, make meaningful choices, and shape their own narrative adventures. The exquisite illustrations and thoughtful component design enhance the visual appeal of the game. The branching storylines, player interaction, and modular boards ensure that each playthrough offers a fresh and exciting experience. Near and Far is a must-have for board game enthusiasts seeking memorable gameplay, immersive narratives, and visually stunning aesthetics.

Specs
  • Number of players: 2-4 players
  • Playing Time: 60-120 minutes
  • Recommended player age: 14+
  • Game Type: Strategy, Adventure
  • Complexity Level: Medium-High
  • Game Designer: Ryan Laukat
Pros
  • Engaging gameplay
  • Immersive storytelling
  • Stunning artwork
  • Endless replayability
Cons
  • Long playing time
  • High complexity level
  • Not suitable for young kids
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Overview

Welcome to the review of Near and Far! Within this article, we will delve into the captivating world of this strategic board game and explore its engaging gameplay mechanics, immersive storytelling elements, stunning artwork and design, and high replayability. If you’re ready for an epic adventure filled with exploration, decision-making, and boundless possibilities, then let’s jump right into our review of Near and Far.

How It Plays


Setting up

To begin a game of Near and Far, players first set up the map board by arranging the various location tiles and placing the quest cards in their designated spots. Each player then chooses a character with unique abilities and collects their starting resources. The event deck is shuffled and placed within reach, ready to introduce surprises throughout the game.

Gameplay

The gameplay of Near and Far revolves around exploration, resource management, and strategic decision-making. On their turn, players can take various actions such as recruiting companions, collecting resources, resolving quests, or resting to regain health. Each action requires careful planning and consideration, as players must weigh the risks and benefits to ensure their progress in the game.

Winning the game

The game concludes when a predetermined number of rounds have been played or when a player reaches a set number of victory points. Victory points can be earned by completing quests, collecting valuable resources, or embarking on successful expeditions. The player with the most victory points at the end of the game is declared the winner of Near and Far.

In summary, Near and Far offers a strategic and immersive gameplay experience where players explore a captivating world, make crucial choices, and compete for victory. Now that we have an understanding of how the game is played, let’s dive into the exciting gameplay mechanics, storytelling elements, artwork and design, and replayability that Near and Far has to offer.

Want to know more? Read our extensive strategy guide for Near and Far.

Experience the engaging gameplay mechanics of Near and Far that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

The Explorable World

In Near and Far, players can discover a vast and immersive world filled with strange and exciting adventures. The game features a unique map board that presents various locations for players to explore, each with its own set of challenges and rewards. As you journey through the different lands, you’ll encounter NPCs to interact with, treasures to find, and quests to complete. The exploration element adds an element of unpredictability and excitement to the game, as no two game sessions will ever be the same.

Travel and Resource Management

One of the key gameplay mechanics in Near and Far is the strategic decisions you make while managing your resources and planning your travel. You’ll need to carefully consider which locations to visit, as it will affect your options for recruiting companions, collecting resources, and completing quests. Choosyg your routes wisely can mean the difference between success and failure. Will you choose to prioritize gathering valuable resources, or focus on completing quests for rewards? The choice is yours, but think carefully!

Worker Placement and Action Selection

Near and Far incorporates worker placement and action selection as core game mechanics, adding depth and strategy to your decision-making. Each turn, you’ll have a limited number of workers that can be assigned to different locations on the map, granting you various actions and benefits. This mechanism creates a competitive element among players as you race to secure the best actions and resources before your opponents do. It’s a constant challenge to balance your worker placement choices and maximize their effectiveness.

As you navigate the game with your chosen strategy, you’ll encounter a variety of terrain types, each with its own set of rules and challenges. Some locations may provide valuable resources, while others can grant you special abilities or even trigger dynamic events. The gameplay mechanics of Near and Far seamlessly blend strategic decision-making with thematic elements, making every move feel meaningful and rewarding.

Next Stop: Immersive Storytelling

Now that we’ve delved into the exciting game mechanics of Near and Far, let’s set our sights on its immersive storytelling elements. Prepare to embark on epic quests and shape your own narrative adventure!

Near and Far - Near and Far, Red Raven Games, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin

Immersive Narration and Choices

Prepare to be captivated by the storytelling elements of Near and Far that will transport you into an epic adventure full of twists, turns, and meaningful choices. The game incorporates an extensive narrative system that allows players to make decisions that impact the outcome of their stories. Your choices during quests, interactions with NPCs, and exploration will shape the course of the game, creating a personalized and immersive experience.

Quests and Engaging Challenges

In Near and Far, players will embark on captivating quests that are seamlessly integrated into the game’s narrative. Each quest presents unique challenges, requiring players to make strategic decisions, solve riddles, or overcome obstacles. The quests add depth to the storytelling and create a sense of purpose for your journeys through the game’s world. Whether you’re assisting a character in need or searching for legendary artifacts, the quests keep you engaged and eager to uncover what lies ahead.

Player Interaction and Social Dynamics

One of the exciting storytelling elements of Near and Far lies in its player interaction and social dynamics. The game encourages interaction between players through shared narratives, cooperative opportunities, and the potential for competitive clashes. You’ll have the chance to forge alliances, negotiate deals, or sabotage your opponents’ progress. How you choose to interact and strategize with other players adds an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to the overall experience.

The combination of quests, player interaction, and branching narratives ensures that no two playthroughs of Near and Far will be the same. This replayability factor allows you to explore different paths, make alternative choices, and witness unique storylines unfold. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart or a fan of immersive narratives, Near and Far will keep you engrossed in its captivating storytelling elements.

A Feast for the Eyes: Artwork and Design

After delving into the immersive storytelling elements, let’s shift our focus to the stunning artwork and design that make Near and Far a visual treat. Get ready to be mesmerized by the game’s stunning illustrations and charming aesthetic!

Near and Far - Near and Far adventurers - Credit: benjilb

A Visual Masterpiece: Artwork and Design

Elevating the gaming experience to new heights, Near and Far mesmerizes players with its exquisite artwork and thoughtful design. Immerse yourself in a world of beauty and wonder, where every visual detail is crafted with care to transport you into an enchanting realm.

Enchanting Illustrations and Theme

The artwork in Near and Far is nothing short of breathtaking. From the intricately illustrated characters to the vibrant landscapes, each component of the game is a work of art that brings the fantastical world to life. The attention to detail and the use of vibrant colors add depth and immersion, transporting players into a whimsical adventure filled with charm and wonder. The beautiful themes are skillfully woven into the visual design, creating an emotionally captivating journey.

Thoughtful Component Design

Not only is the artwork visually stunning, but the design of the game’s components also adds to the overall experience. The game features high-quality tokens and cards that are both durable and pleasing to the touch. The intuitive layout of the game board and player aids streamlines gameplay, ensuring smooth and immersive sessions. The thoughtful design choices add a layer of elegance to Near and Far, enhancing its visual appeal and overall enjoyment.

Evocative World-building

The artwork and design in Near and Far synergize to immerse players in a rich and evocative world. Each location on the map is intricately crafted to portray unique environments and cultures, showcasing the richness and diversity of the game’s universe. The illustrations capture the essence of each setting, evoking a sense of place and allowing players to emotionally connect with the game world. Whether exploring tranquil forests or facing the perils of treacherous mountains, the artwork and design elevate Near and Far to a truly immersive experience.

Through its captivating artwork, thoughtful design, and evocative world-building, Near and Far ignites the imagination and transports players to a visually stunning and emotionally resonant realm. Every aspect of the game’s presentation is meticulously crafted to foster immersion and enhance the overall enjoyment of the gaming experience.

Unlimited Adventures: Replayability

Having explored the mesmerizing visuals of Near and Far, let’s dive into the game’s incredible replayability and discover the boundless adventures that await.

Near and Far - Colored plastic stands - Credit: benjilb

Endless Adventures: Replayability

Near and Far provides a vast array of gameplay options and random elements that ensure each playthrough offers a refreshing and unique experience. With its high replayability factor, the game promises endless adventures to be discovered and enjoyment that knows no bounds.

Multiple Paths and Character Strategies

In Near and Far, no two journeys will ever be the same. The game offers a multitude of paths and strategies to explore, allowing for different approaches with each playthrough. Whether you choose to focus on resource gathering, completing quests, or building alliances with NPCs, you’ll find countless ways to shape your gameplay experience. The variety of character abilities and the multitude of decisions you need to make further increase the replayability factor, as each choice has the potential to change the course of the game.

Branching Storylines and Event Deck

The branching narrative system in Near and Far ensures that every decision you make during quests can influence how the story unfolds, adding layers of unpredictability and excitement. Each storyline presents unique challenges and outcomes, and as you encounter different NPCs and events, the game takes unexpected turns. The event deck is another element that injects variability into the game, introducing surprise elements and further enhancing replayability.

Modular Boards for Customization

Near and Far offers modular boards that can be shuffled, mixed, and matched, allowing for infinite combinations and customization. The ability to create new map layouts ensures that each game session feels fresh and presents its own set of challenges. This modular aspect not only encourages replayability, but it also offers adaptability to players who want to modify the game’s difficulty level or create unique gaming experiences.

Whether you’re a fan of exploring every nook and cranny of the game world, optimizing your strategies, or experiencing different storylines, Near and Far caters to a wide range of gaming preferences. Its high replayability ensures that you can enjoy this captivating game over and over again, without ever feeling like you’ve exhausted all its possibilities.

In summary, Near and Far is a game that excels in its gameplay mechanics, storytelling elements, artwork and design, and replayability. From the engaging exploration to the immersive narrative, the stunning visuals to the endless adventures, this game offers a well-rounded and satisfying gaming experience. If you’re a fan of strategic board games with depth, captivating stories, and visually appealing aesthetics, Near and Far comes highly recommended!

Near and Far - Look familiar? - Credit: The Innocent

Conclusion

After diving into the engaging gameplay mechanics, immersive storytelling elements, stunning artwork and design, and high replayability of Near and Far, it is evident that this game delivers a truly captivating and rewarding gaming experience. The exploration aspect, strategic decision-making, and branching narratives keep players invested and excited throughout each playthrough. The beautiful illustrations, thoughtful component design, and evocative world-building further enhance the immersion. With its unlimited adventures and boundless possibilities, Near and Far is a game that will keep you coming back for more. If you’re looking for a game that combines strategy, storytelling, and visual delight, don’t miss out on Near and Far. And that concludes our adventure-filled review!

4.7/5Overall Score
Jamie in his proper element: With all of his board games
Jamie Hopkins

With years of dice-rolling, card-flipping, and strategic planning under my belt, I've transformed my passion into expertise. I thrive on dissecting the mechanics and social dynamics of board games, sharing insights from countless game nights with friends. I dive deep into gameplay mechanics, while emphasizing the social joys of gaming. While I appreciate themes and visuals, it's the strategy and camaraderie that truly capture my heart.