Review #2: Clout Fantasy

Overview: Clout Fantasy is described as a "collectible throwing game" by its creator Jesper Myrfors who has worked on other games like Magic: the Gathering and Rage in the Art or Graphic Design Departments. The game is played with chips that resemble poker chips. Each one belongs to a certain faction based on a fantasy race, be it Elves, Centaurs, Undead, or Mermaids. They also are divided into bases, troops, and actions. The chips are then thrown onto the playing field from a certain distance above and away from it. Depending on the distance that chip is from others on the table depends on what happens. If you ask me, this seems like it could be a very interesting concept. It relies a lot on both luck and skill; luck in that the surface of the table, along with other factors like wind resistance and gravity, can really mess with the throw. This was actually the selling point for me. Sometime within the past year I had found it randomly sitting in a comic book shop. They told me it was a discontinued game but very fun. I personally enjoy obscure yet fun games. So, I purchased it on the spot. I have yet to regret that purchase.

Physical Aspects: The chips are rather sturdy and much denser than your usual poker chip. They can take a beating. The creators of the game encourage creative uses of the chips during gameplay like bouncing them off walls. The chips' density allows it to take such a whallop without the owner having to worry about the status of his precious chips.

The strip used to measure the distance between the chips is a long strip of finely made cloth. With the two measuring options, this is a very useful tool for whatever occasion you are playing with.

The art is gorgeous. Seperate artists, including a few that have worked on Magic: the Gathering, contributed to the different images on the chips.

Mechanics: The mechanics are simple enough. Each player has a stack of 15 chips of the same faction equaling a certain amount of Clout Points which are labelled on the individual chips. The stack must have at least two bases as well as no more than two neutrally aligned chips.

Each chip has a range, a defense, and an ability or two. The abilities effect other chips within its range, usually the enemies. Some abilities replace the throwing phase of a turn. Players must be able to think strategically about where they want their chips to land.

The playing surface really adds a lot to the gameplay. If it is smooth your chips may slide. If it is too bouncy the chips may bounce off the playing field entirely. Choose your gaming space carefully.

Summary: Clout Fantasy is a fantastic game discontinued before its time. I really hope I get the chance to keep playing and collecting this game through the years.