Pro players recommend three key strategies for dominating Dominion: Intrigue 2nd Edition. First, focus on building a strong engine using the new Kingdom cards, particularly those that interact with victory points during gameplay. Second, master the balance between action cards and treasure cards while adapting your strategy based on your opponents' moves. Third, don't underestimate the power of defensive cards that can protect your deck from attacks. These core tactics will set you up to explore even more advanced winning combinations.
Key Takeaways
- Mastering victory card interactions during gameplay is essential, as Intrigue 2nd Edition uniquely allows players to use these cards actively.
- Focus on building engine combinations with the 26 new Kingdom cards, particularly those that enable multiple actions per turn.
- Maintain flexibility in strategy by balancing victory point accumulation with deck-building efficiency to adapt to opponents' tactics.
- Leverage cards that provide both victory points and additional benefits to maximize each turn's potential value.
- Prioritize acquiring key action cards early in the game to establish a strong foundation before transitioning to victory point collection.
Dominion: Seaside 2nd Edition Update Pack
- This update pack will update your copy of Dominion Seaside 1st edition to the 2nd edition.
- Contains only the 9 New cards.
- This is not a stand alone game.
The Dominion: Seaside 2nd Edition Update Pack offers a budget-friendly solution for dedicated Dominion players looking to refresh their gameplay experience. You'll get 9 new cards that upgrade your first edition Seaside set without having to buy the whole game again.
This compact package packs quite a punch for its size. At just 7.2 ounces and fitting in a 4 x 3 x 1.5-inch box, it's a small investment that's making a big impact with players – evident in its impressive 4.8-star rating. You'll also find extra base cards included, perfect for replacing those well-loved, worn-out ones from your original set.
Best For: Existing Dominion: Seaside 1st Edition owners who want to enhance their game experience with new cards and mechanics without purchasing the complete 2nd Edition.
Pros:
- Cost-effective way to upgrade to 2nd Edition without buying the full game again
- Includes replacement base cards for worn components
- High player satisfaction reflected in 4.8/5 rating from over 100 reviews
Cons:
- Not a standalone product – requires original Seaside game to play
- Limited to only 9 new cards
- Small package may be easy to misplace among other game components
Rio Grande Games Dominion: Intrigue 2nd Edition Board Game, Blue
- 2nd edition features updated cards, artwork and streamlined rules
- For 2-4 players
- 30 minute playing time
Dedicated deck-builders seeking deeper strategic options will find their perfect match in Rio Grande Games' Dominion: Intrigue 2nd Edition. This expansion adds 26 new Kingdom cards that'll make your head spin with possibilities, introducing clever victory cards that work before game's end.
You'll need the base Dominion game to play, as this isn't standalone. But don't let that stop you – the 2nd edition's updated artwork and streamlined rules make it worth the investment. Players consistently rate it 4.8 out of 5 stars, praising how it enhances gameplay without adding unnecessary complexity.
For 2-4 players, you can complete a game in about 30 minutes. The expansion's underling cards offer strategic choices that'll keep you coming back for more.
Best For: Experienced Dominion players looking to add strategic depth and variety to their base game through victory point mechanics and more complex card interactions.
Pros:
- Adds 26 new Kingdom cards that significantly expand strategic options
- High replay value with excellent integration into the base game
- Streamlined rules and updated artwork in the 2nd edition
Cons:
- Not a standalone game – requires original Dominion to play
- Missing Basic cards needed for 5-6 player games
- Some reported issues with shipping damage and packaging quality
Rio Grande Games Dominion: Prosperity Update Pack (2nd Edition)
- 2nd edition update pack features updated cards, artwork and streamlined rules.
- Turn your Dominion: Properity into Dominion: Prosperity 2nd edition with this update pack.
- Great addition to your Dominion!
Owners of Dominion: Prosperity's first edition will find essential updates in this compact yet impactful 2nd Edition Update Pack. You'll get nine newly designed cards, including the game-changing War Chest and the clever Crystal Ball, that'll refresh your gameplay experience.
While some players mention the card material could be better, the 4.8-star rating from over 100 reviews suggests you're getting solid value. The pack's streamlined rules and updated artwork bring your first edition up to current standards, though you might find the $20-ish price tag a bit steep for nine cards.
Best For: Dedicated Dominion: Prosperity (1st Edition) owners who want to modernize their game with updated mechanics and fresh gameplay elements.
Pros:
- Adds nine innovative cards that introduce new strategic dynamics
- High user satisfaction reflected in 4.8/5 star rating from over 100 reviews
- Updated artwork and streamlined rules improve the original game experience
Cons:
- Relatively expensive price point for just nine cards
- Some concerns about card material quality
- Not playable as a standalone product – requires original Prosperity edition
Factors to Consider When Choosing Dominion Intrigue 2nd Edition
When you're considering Dominion Intrigue 2nd Edition, you'll want to evaluate several key factors that impact your gaming experience. The quality of cards and their durability will affect long-term enjoyment, while compatibility with different player counts and integration with the base game determines how often you'll get it to the table. The strategic depth added through new card interactions and mechanics needs to balance with your available storage space, as this expansion adds considerably to your Dominion collection.
Card Quality and Durability
Card quality stands as a crucial factor when selecting Dominion Intrigue 2nd Edition. While the series is known for durable cards, you'll want to inspect your set carefully upon arrival, as some customers have reported missing cards or quality concerns.
The 2nd edition's updated artwork and streamlined rules aren't just about looks – they're designed to enhance your cards' longevity during gameplay. You'll appreciate the compact dimensions (4 x 3 x 1.5 inches), making storage a breeze without sacrificing durability.
When adding expansion packs to your collection, keep in mind that card quality can vary. You'll want to verify your new cards match the condition of your existing ones for a consistent gaming experience. After all, there's nothing worse than being able to spot a card by its wear pattern!
Player Count Compatibility
Since ideal gameplay depends heavily on group size, understanding Dominion Intrigue's player count compatibility is essential before making your purchase. The expansion is perfectly balanced for 2-4 players, making it great for small gaming sessions that last around 30 minutes.
You'll need the original Dominion base game to play, as Intrigue 2nd Edition works as an expansion rather than a standalone product. If you're planning to host larger groups, don't worry – you can accommodate up to 6 players by combining it with other expansions and using additional base cards.
Keep in mind that while the game shines with 2-4 players, scaling up to larger groups might require you to invest in extra cards. This flexibility lets you adapt the game to your group's changing size and preferences.
Base Game Integration
Before diving into Dominion: Intrigue 2nd Edition, you'll need to own the original Dominion base game. This expansion isn't standalone, but it's designed to seamlessly blend with your existing cards and mechanics.
You'll discover 26 new Kingdom cards that'll add fresh strategic layers to your gameplay. The replacement of six first-edition cards, plus one new addition, means you're getting refined mechanics that work even better with the base game.
What's particularly exciting is how the victory cards interact with other elements during play. You're not just collecting points for the end game anymore – you can leverage victory points in active strategies. Plus, if you've got other Dominion expansions, you can mix and match everything together for countless unique combinations.
Strategic Depth Added
While the original Dominion established deck-building fundamentals, Intrigue 2nd Edition takes strategy to compelling new heights. You'll discover 26 new Kingdom cards that open up fresh tactical possibilities you won't find in the base game.
What makes this edition particularly exciting is how it lets you interact with victory cards before the game ends. You're no longer just collecting points – you're wielding them as powerful tools throughout your gameplay. This adds a whole new layer of decision-making to your strategy.
The beauty of Intrigue 2nd Edition lies in its versatility. You can mix and match it with other Dominion expansions to create countless combinations. With six replaced cards and one new addition from the first edition, you'll find familiar mechanics enhanced by innovative twists that keep each game session uniquely challenging.
Storage Space Requirements
Beyond mastering the strategic depths of Dominion: Intrigue 2nd Edition, you'll need to plan for its physical footprint in your game collection. At 3 x 11.5 x 11.5 inches and 2.3 pounds, it's not exactly a small game.
Since Intrigue is an expansion, you'll want to take into account storage space for both this and the base game. Pro tip: keep them together for easier access during game nights. The box dimensions allow for standard shelving, but don't forget to account for any update packs you might add later.
A dedicated storage solution that can handle the combined weight and size of both games will make organizing cards much simpler. Consider vertical storage options to maximize shelf space, and make sure your chosen spot can support the total weight comfortably.
Cost Vs Value Analysis
Making a smart investment in Dominion: Intrigue 2nd Edition requires weighing several key factors. At first glance, you'll need to take into account that this is an expansion, meaning you'll need the base game to play – so factor that into your budget if you don't already own it.
The value proposition is compelling, though. You're getting 26 new Kingdom cards that'll greatly expand your strategic options. With an impressive 4.8-star rating from nearly 1,000 players, it's clear that most buyers feel they've gotten their money's worth.
While there have been occasional reports of missing cards, the game's strong market performance (#1,309 in Dedicated Deck Card Games) suggests reliable quality control overall. The expansion's ability to add variety without overwhelming complexity makes it a worthwhile purchase for most Dominion fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does a Typical Dominion Intrigue 2nd Edition Game Last?
You'll typically finish a game of Dominion Intrigue 2nd Edition in about 20-30 minutes once you're familiar with the cards. If you're new to the game, expect your first few matches to run closer to 45 minutes as you read cards and learn mechanics. Playing with 3-4 players can stretch the game to around 40 minutes, while experienced 2-player games might wrap up in just 15-20 minutes.
What Is the Optimal Number of Players for Competitive Dominion Intrigue Matches?
While you could play Dominion Intrigue with a million players, the sweet spot for competitive matches is 2-3 players. You'll find that two-player games offer the most strategic depth and fastest pace, letting you execute combos without excessive downtime. Three players work well too, but four can drag on too long. Most tournament organizers prefer 2-player matches since they're easier to coordinate and provide the purest competitive experience.
Can Dominion Intrigue 2nd Edition Be Played as a Standalone Game?
Yes, you can absolutely play Dominion Intrigue 2nd Edition as a standalone game! You'll get everything you need right in the box, including treasure cards, victory cards, and 26 unique kingdom cards. You don't need the original Dominion to enjoy it. While it's technically an expansion, the 2nd Edition was specifically designed to work as its own complete game. You'll be plotting and scheming with nobles and conspirators in no time!
Which Card Combinations Should Beginners Avoid in Dominion Intrigue 2nd Edition?
If you're just starting out with Dominion Intrigue 2nd Edition, you'll want to avoid some mind-bendingly complex card combinations that could make your head spin! Stay away from pairing Courtier with Diplomat or Trading Post with Secret Passage initially. These combos require advanced timing and strategy. You'll also want to skip the Conspirator-based chains until you're more experienced. Instead, focus on straightforward action cards like Patrol and Steward to build your skills.
How Different Is Intrigue 2nd Edition From the Original Intrigue Version?
You'll notice several key differences between Intrigue's editions. The 2nd edition removed six cards (Saboteur, Scout, Secret Chamber, Great Hall, Coppersmith, and Tribute) that were considered less engaging or too complex. They've been replaced with seven new cards including Diplomat, Secret Passage, and Patrol. The rulebook's clearer now, and you'll find the card interactions more streamlined. Don't worry though – the core Victory Point and deck-building mechanics remain the same.
