Another issue is that it’s impossible to not feel the limitations of what is included in the box. The game is so simple and easy to play that it’s hard to not wish there were more available hero and monster types. In many games, artifacts and treasures have barely had an impact. I don’t feel that the game is abstract or too stripped-down at all, but more like the game could have simply had additional features that fit within its compact frame- there’s room for it, and if the game were to be expanded I think it could have good long-term potential.

But by the same token, one of the chief reasons I like CLAUSTROPHOBIA is because it demonstrates that big atmosphere, big theme, and big fantasy games don’t have to be overburdened with rules and “stuff” to make it all work and to provide a fun adventure gaming experience. I think this is a very attractive package for kids as well; it’s something anyone can enjoy fresh out of the box and not be intimidated or overwhelmed with multiple expansion rules or card text, and that’s a great differentiator in its class. I’ve found that even seasoned DESCENT veterans have enjoyed the game due to its accessibility, even if it is closer to a tabletop version of GAUNTLET than it is a cardboard DIABLO.

Barring out-of-print titles like DUNGEONQUEST, there really isn’t much else in this genre at this level of complexity and rules weight. I’d love to see more games pack more into less like CLAUSTROPHOBIA does, but it’s such a fine line between cutting out too much and leaving enough that its simplicity is undone. As of now, it falls a little on the “too much cut” side but that hasn’t necessarily interfered with the fun I’ve had playing the game. All things considered, CLAUSTROPHOBIA gets a vote of confidence and my recommendation, and I especially think it’s a good bet for fans looking for something beyond simple tactical miniatures games like HEROSCAPE or less expensive than SPACE HULK.

Questions or comments for Michael? Send them along to wabner@gameshark.com .

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