Review Details

Smash Up: The Obligatory Cthulhu Expansion

Product Review (submitted on October 3, 2015):

I'm a fan of Smash Up in general, so I like this expansion. That being said, it's a bit notorious in my gaming group, and is generally the least liked expansion thus far. I find the factions work well and their play styles make sense. The only complaint is the use of Madness cards. Personally, I like the theme, and the Madness cards are a big part of that. However, some of my gaming friends dislike them and refuse to play this expansion. Their major concern is that if someone plays a Chthulhu faction that gives you Madness cards, it almost mandates that you play one as well so that you can get rid of them and avoid the penalties. I don't find it quite so mandatory and think that it's a bit of an exaggeration. I've had successful rounds with non-Chthulhu factions, it's just how you pair your factions, which is what this game is all about.

Short Recap: I think it's pretty good, but some people dislike the Madness cards. But if you choose factions wisely, it's a non-issue.