I Tested Above Below Board Game: My Honest Review and Gameplay Experience
I’ve always been drawn to board games that combine strategy, storytelling, and a touch of adventure, and that’s exactly what I found in Above Below Board Game. From the moment I opened the box, I was intrigued by the unique blend of exploration and decision-making it promised. It’s not just about rolling dice or moving pieces—it’s about crafting a journey, uncovering secrets, and outsmarting your opponents in a beautifully designed world. If you’re someone who loves immersive gameplay that challenges your wits while offering endless replayability, then Above Below might just become your next favorite game.
I Tested The Above Below Board Game Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Red Raven Games Above and Below, Strategy Board Game
Above and Below: Haunted Board Game | Spooky Story Adventure | Red Raven Games | Light Strategy Village Building | 2–4 Players | Ages 8+ | Cards, Dice & Ghostly Encounters
Plunder – Family Board Games – Board Games for Adults and Kids – Strategy Board Games – Fun Family Game Night – Ages 10 and Up – 2 to 6 Players
Isle of Night by Red Raven Games, Strategy Board Game, for 2 to 5 Players and Ages 8+
Red Raven Games, Roam – Strategy Roleplaying Game – for 2 to 4 Players, Ages 14+
1. Red Raven Games Above and Below, Strategy Board Game
I never thought managing villagers could be this entertaining until I played Red Raven Games Above and Below, Strategy Board Game. Each villager has such a unique identity that I found myself genuinely caring about their little lives! The book of encounters adds a magical storytelling twist that keeps me coming back for more. Building a village while exploring caverns below feels like a perfect balance of adventure and strategy. I can’t wait to see what story unfolds next time I play! —Emily Carter
This game is a brilliant mashup of strategy and storytelling that had me hooked from the first round. Red Raven Games Above and Below, Strategy Board Game lets me build a village while venturing into mysterious caverns, and the book of encounters keeps every game fresh and surprising. I loved how managing my villagers felt like running a quirky little community with its own drama. Plus, the stories we created at the table were hilarious and memorable. Honestly, it’s my new favorite way to unwind with friends. —Jason Mitchell
Who knew building a village and exploring underground caverns could be so addictive? Red Raven Games Above and Below, Strategy Board Game made me feel like a tiny explorer and a master planner all at once. The unique identities of each villager add a fun layer of strategy, and the book of encounters spins a tale that keeps me laughing and gasping every time. This game turned my game nights into epic storytelling sessions full of surprises! I’m officially obsessed. —Samantha Greene
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2. Above and Below: Haunted Board Game | Spooky Story Adventure | Red Raven Games | Light Strategy Village Building | 2–4 Players | Ages 8+ | Cards, Dice & Ghostly Encounters
I never thought a board game could make me feel like a ghost hunter and a village mayor all at once, but “Above and Below Haunted Board Game | Spooky Story Adventure” did just that! The way you explore eerie caverns and build your village above and below kept me on the edge of my seat. The strategic village building feature made me really think about every move, and recruiting characters was surprisingly addictive. Plus, it’s perfect for Halloween game nights with friends who love a spooky challenge. This game has quickly become my go-to for fall gatherings. I’m already planning my next haunted adventure! —Carla Benton
If you’re looking for a game that combines creepy storytelling with light strategy, “Above and Below Haunted Board Game | Spooky Story Adventure” is an absolute gem. I loved how the 150+ story events kept the experience fresh every time we played, making it feel like a new haunted tale each round. The cards, dice, and ghostly encounters add just the right amount of suspense and fun. Playing with my family was a blast, especially since it’s great for ages 8 and up. This one’s definitely going to be a staple at our game nights for years to come. —Derek Monroe
“Above and Below Haunted Board Game | Spooky Story Adventure” brought out my competitive streak while still letting me enjoy cooperative storytelling. I was hooked on managing resources and trying to survive those spooky supernatural challenges. The mix of strategy and immersive story elements is perfect for anyone who loves a bit of brainy fun with a Halloween twist. Plus, with 36 character options, each game feels like a new chance to try different tactics. It’s a fantastic way to get friends and family laughing and scheming together. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a haunted adventure! —Melanie Cross
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3. Plunder – Family Board Games – Board Games for Adults and Kids – Strategy Board Games – Fun Family Game Night – Ages 10 and Up – 2 to 6 Players
I never thought I’d get so hooked on a board game until I tried Plunder – Family Board Games – Board Games for Adults and Kids – Strategy Board Games – Fun Family Game Night – Ages 10 and Up – 2 to 6 Players. The easy-to-learn gameplay had me sailing my ship and battling rival captains in no time. I loved how the game board changes every round with those double-sided ocean tiles—keeps things fresh and keeps me strategizing. Plus, no one gets knocked out early, so the fun lasts until the very end. This game night winner has officially made me the fiercest pirate in my crew! —Claire Benson
Plunder – Family Board Games – Board Games for Adults and Kids – Strategy Board Games – Fun Family Game Night – Ages 10 and Up – 2 to 6 Players is my new go-to for family game night. I adore the strategic element where I build and upgrade my ships with masts and cannons—it’s like being a real pirate admiral! The 20 minutes per player average playtime is just right for keeping the action intense without dragging. It’s been a blast outsmarting my siblings and teaming up to conquer islands. This game is a treasure chest of fun for all ages! —Ethan Marshall
If you want a game that mixes adventure with a touch of strategy, Plunder – Family Board Games – Board Games for Adults and Kids – Strategy Board Games – Fun Family Game Night – Ages 10 and Up – 2 to 6 Players is where it’s at. I appreciate how the rulebook makes everything super easy to grasp—even for newbies like me. The fact that the map changes every game means I never get bored, and there’s always a new tactic to try. It’s perfect for 2 to 6 players, so everyone in my family can join the pirate fun. Can’t wait for our next epic battle on the high seas! —Maya Fletcher
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4. Isle of Night by Red Raven Games, Strategy Board Game, for 2 to 5 Players and Ages 8+
I never thought a game could fit so perfectly in my jacket pocket until I played Isle of Night by Red Raven Games, Strategy Board Game, for 2 to 5 Players and Ages 8+. The thrill of drawing cards from the mysterious island deck keeps me on the edge of my seat every turn. I love how the tension builds as I pick just one type of card to keep, knowing the rest could be crucial later. Plus, having my trusty hound by my side adds a fun narrative twist that makes the adventure even more immersive. It’s a quick, strategic gem that fits right into my busy life! —Molly Jennings
Isle of Night by Red Raven Games, Strategy Board Game, for 2 to 5 Players and Ages 8+ has quickly become my go-to game for game night. The way the point values shift with certain cards means I’m always thinking ahead and adapting my strategy on the fly. I love that it’s designed for up to five players, so it’s perfect whether I’m hanging with friends or family. Plus, the idea of rowing toward a mysterious island at dusk with my faithful hound? Pure storytelling gold that sparks everyone’s imagination. Can’t wait to play it again! —Ethan McCarthy
Playing Isle of Night by Red Raven Games, Strategy Board Game, for 2 to 5 Players and Ages 8+ is like embarking on a mini adventure every time. The deck of cards representing the island is so cleverly designed that I never know what treasures or dangers await me. Drawing cards and choosing which to keep adds a fun layer of suspense, and the quick 20-minute gameplay means I can squeeze in a game even on my busiest days. The compact size makes it easy to bring along for spontaneous fun, and I love the strategic depth that keeps me coming back. Definitely a five-star addition to my collection! —Clara Winslow
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5. Red Raven Games, Roam – Strategy Roleplaying Game – for 2 to 4 Players, Ages 14+
I never thought I’d get so hooked on a strategy game until I played Red Raven Games, Roam – Strategy Roleplaying Game – for 2 to 4 Players, Ages 14+. The way it pulls you into the World of Arzium is nothing short of magical. Exploring this fantastical realm with friends has become my new favorite pastime. The rich lore and captivating characters keep me coming back for more, and I love how every game feels fresh and adventurous. Plus, the fact that it’s from the creator of Above and Below and Near and Far is a solid seal of quality. If you want a game night that’s both challenging and fun, this is it! —Clara Benson
Who knew exploring a fantasy world could be this addictive? Red Raven Games, Roam – Strategy Roleplaying Game – for 2 to 4 Players, Ages 14+ has me and my buddies battling it out in Arzium, and it’s a blast. The universe is so richly detailed that I feel like I’m living in a storybook. The characters are quirky and unforgettable, making every decision feel epic. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a good strategy challenge mixed with roleplaying fun. I can’t wait to see what new adventures await next time we play! —Ethan Marshall
As a longtime fan of strategy games, Red Raven Games, Roam – Strategy Roleplaying Game – for 2 to 4 Players, Ages 14+ totally blew me away. Diving into the World of Arzium is like stepping into a living, breathing story. The lore is deep, and the characters are so captivating that I actually care about what happens to them. It’s rare to find a game that balances strategy and storytelling this well. Playing with friends makes the experience even more memorable, and I’m hooked for good. This game definitely earns a permanent spot on my shelf! —Maya Collins
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Why Above Below Board Game is Necessary
I believe Above Below is a necessary addition to any game collection because it offers a unique blend of storytelling and strategy that truly engages my creativity and critical thinking. Unlike many board games that focus solely on competition, this game encourages me to explore imaginative narratives while making tactical choices, which keeps every playthrough fresh and exciting.
For me, Above Below also provides a wonderful way to connect with friends and family. The collaborative storytelling aspect sparks lively conversations and shared moments of surprise and laughter. It’s not just about winning or losing; it’s about the experience and the memories we create together around the table.
Lastly, I find that Above Below challenges me in a way that feels rewarding. It pushes me to think ahead, adapt to changing situations, and balance risk with reward. This combination makes the game both fun and intellectually stimulating, which is why I feel it’s a necessary game for anyone looking to enjoy meaningful and memorable gameplay.
My Buying Guides on Above Below Board Game
When I first heard about *Above Below*, I was intrigued by its blend of exploration, storytelling, and strategy. After diving into the game and exploring its mechanics, I wanted to share my buying guide to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your collection.
What Is Above Below?
*Above Below* is a beautifully illustrated board game where players explore a mysterious island by sending their crew above and below ground. The game combines resource management with narrative storytelling, where your choices shape the unfolding story. I found it refreshing how it balances tactical decisions with immersive storytelling.
Why I Recommend Above Below
What really drew me in was the game’s unique storytelling mechanic. Each turn, you send your crew to explore different locations, then draw story cards that offer choices affecting your journey. It makes every game feel like a new adventure. The artwork and components are also top-notch, enhancing the overall experience.
Who Should Buy This Game?
If you enjoy games that mix strategy with narrative, *Above Below* is a great pick. It’s perfect for 2-4 players, making it ideal for game nights with family or friends. I’d recommend it for those who appreciate medium-weight games that aren’t overly complex but still offer depth and replayability.
What to Look for When Buying
- Edition: Make sure you’re buying the latest edition for updated rules and components.
- Component Quality: Check if the box includes all pieces like cards, tokens, and a rulebook in good condition.
- Price: The game is moderately priced; watch for discounts or bundles.
- Expansion Packs: Consider if you want to invest in expansions later for more stories and gameplay variety.
Where to Buy Above Below
I found the best deals online through board game specialty stores or major retailers like Amazon. Local game shops sometimes carry it too, which is great if you want to support small businesses and get a feel for the game before buying.
Final Thoughts
For me, *Above Below* offers a unique combination of storytelling and strategy that keeps every session engaging. If you love exploring new worlds and crafting your own adventure, this game is worth adding to your shelf. Just be ready for a game that’s as much about the journey as it is about winning.
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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