Cosmere-Themed Deckbuilder: A Mistborn-Like Journey Inspired by Slay the Spire

In Brandon Sanderson’s compelling Mistborn series, certain individuals possess a unique ability to use magic through metal consumption. They can burn pewter for physical strength or brass to calm others’ emotions. However, the most formidable are the Mistborn, who harness various metals to soar through the air and even glimpse into the future.

Drawing from Sanderson’s well-established magical system, Mistborn: The Deckbuilding Game allows players to channel the power of a Mistborn. By crafting intricate combos, players maximize the efficiency of their metals, aiming to either conquer three missions, each offering rewards as you hit milestones, or knock out rivals by depleting their health.

As the game progresses, characters gain strength, enabling them to burn more of the game’s eight types of metals each turn. These metals activate cards allowing players to advance on mission tracks, attack competitors, or refine their decks by purchasing new cards or getting rid of weak starting ones. Many cards come with “kickers” that deliver heightened effects if you burn additional metals of the same kind, promoting specialization. Alternatively, players can adopt a broader approach by flaring metals, putting them on pause until they’re recharged by a similar card in subsequent turns. I realized in hindsight that I could have capitalized more on this tactic early in the game to boost my deck.

One unique feature of the game is its take on inflicting damage. In games with three or four players, one player is designated as the target and becomes the sole focus of attacks. Yet, this role isn’t entirely disadvantageous since the target hits all opponents when counterattacking. When damaged, the target has the choice to pass on the token to another player or retain it. This mechanic cleverly prevents players from ganging up on the frontrunner but offers a strategic edge to those with aggressive decks.

I’m excited to explore more strategies and delve into the game’s cooperative mode, which resonates more with the series’ narrative of Mistborn banding together against the oppressive Lord Ruler. There’s also ample potential for expansions, bringing in additional characters and storylines beyond the series’ debut book.