Best Risk Version Board Game: What RISK version to choose? [Updated in 2024]
The game of Risk is undoubtedly one of the most popular map based strategy board game of all time. RISK has been gateway into wargames for many players a . Like many RISK fans, you are probably tempted to find another board game like RISK. But instead, why not go for one of the many different RISK version that has been released? But what is the best RISK version ? What RISK version to choose?
RISK is a classic war strategy game where players compete to control territories on a world map. Players build armies, form alliances, and engage in epic battles to conquer continents and achieve global domination. It’s a timeless classic that introduced the world to strategic gameplay. Its simplicity and depth make it a great game for both casual and experienced board gamers.
RISK was originally created by Albert Lamorisse, then the concept was edited and put into circulation by Parker, one of Hasbro group companies. Over the years, there were many versions of Risk released on the shelves so that it can be easy to get lost when you want to buy RISK board game.
In this article, I will try to review the different options that you have, so that you can identify the best RISK version for you. I don’t thing that there is an definite answer to the question “What is the best RISK version”? I will depends largely to each individual’s desire and sensitivity.
I will start with the “Classic version” of RISK first and then carry on talking about the more “Thematic versions of RISK”. Please note this is not a ranking of the best version of RISK, this is just an exercise that should help you choose the right version of RISK for you.
For those who want Risk feeling without the 3 hour long battle, Hasbro has just released Risk Strike card and Dice game in 2023. Risk Strike is a quick-playing, fast-paced Risk game that can be played in as little as 20 minutes and that will allow you to enjoy the intensity of Risk Board game in an easy to setup card and dice game.
Hasbro Gaming Risk Strike Cards and Dice Game for Adults, Teens, and Kids Ages 10+, Quick-Playing Strategy Card Game for...
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Best RISK version: Classic RISK board game
In 1957 Albert Lamorisse released the first version of the game under the name “La Conquête du monde” (the conquest of the World).Two years later, in 1959, Parker Brothers published the game we all came to know and love as RISK. Risk has become one of those classic board games that so many players around the world have such great memory of. RISK was absolutely unique at that time because it introduced groundbreaking game concepts. It was the first board game to offer non-linear movement . Although the rules were simple enough, the strategies required to win the game were not. RISK pushed the envelope and remained unmatched by any other game on the shelf; quickly becoming a phenomenon with millions of copies sold throughout the world
If what you are looking for is a version of RISK that will give you the same kind of feeling you had when you played the original version of RISK, then I would advice to choose one of the classic RISK edition of the game that were released over the years.
RISK 60th Anniversary Edition
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This version of RISK board game is a 2 to 6 players version and it can be played in 5 different ways, including the classic game plus the original 1957 La Conquete du Monde rules.
This RISK edition includes the gameboard, 6 plastic armies with 40 infantry, 12 cavalry, and 8 artillery each, 57 Risk cards, card box, 6 dice, 6 war crates, and game guide. One of the best RISK version out there.
For this RISK 6oth edition, Hasbro has chosen to go back to basics with a very classic, almost vintage design that will appeal to those looking for a traditional version.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-6 | 90-150 min | 10+ |
Risk Europe by Winning Moves Games USA, a Medieval Conquest of Europe Complete with Siege Weapons, Archers and Much More,...
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RISK 2016 Version
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In the game RISK, players mobilize their color coded army and combat and conquer each other’s territory. The combat phases consist on rolling dice. The attacking player has 3 dice to roll whereas the defender has 2. The more territories a player controls, the more army reinforcement units he can get on is next turn. During the game, you also collect cards that will help you to get additional units. As the game goes on, players that loses their army and all their territories are eliminated until their is only one player left….the winner!
This 2016 version of RISK really captures the popular element of the game prior to the release of the revised edition
RISK (2016 Edition) is a solid choice for players who appreciate the traditional RISK experience but want a modernized look and feel. Its familiarity and accessibility make it suitable for a wide range of gamers.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5 | 90-150 min | 10+ |
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Risk Rustic Edition (2017)
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It is the first time since the 1980’s that the armies are once gain made of wooden pieces. The playing cards also match the game rustic look. Instead of the bright colors of the past editions, the playing cards have some nice shades of brown with simple graphics that goes perfectly well with this Rustic looking RISK game. The game looks absolutely beautiful and inviting.
It plays like all the past version of RISK: in addition to classic RISK, the game offers a 2 players version, a shorter version known as capital RISK and of course the secret mission RISK.
This beautifully crafted edition of rustic RISK is build to last and won’t fall apart during the many battle fought with your friends of with your family. It is a must have for any RISK enthusiast! Definitely need to figure on this list of best RISK version.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-6 | 90-150 min | 10+ |
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Risk Reinvention (Revised edition 2008)
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This version of the RISK game is the revised version of 2008. It is also know as the revised Black Ops version designed by Rob Daviau. The map has been revamped with a new design, new playing pieces shaped like arrow, cities and capitals and some objectives (6 major and 6 minor) has been added. But the most important change remains the conditions of victory. To win in this version of the RISK game, you must complete three goals while controlling your capital. In practice, it will take about 90 minutes for a game.
They are three ways to play this version of RISK with three different rule sets:
Basic Training: The simple way without rewards, can be played with kids, great for shorter game. It’s an introduction to the new RISK rules.It takes around 90 minutes so perfect for kids with short attention spam.
Command Room: This is a more complex way with rewards, bonus cards that you can get and a couple of other slightly more complex rules to make for a longer game.
Both Basic Training and Command Room end when a player controls three objectives or missions. The objectives are major or minor objectives. They can be to “conquer 4 cities in one turn”, or to “complete one continent in one turn”, “Take over 10 territories in one turn” etc… Successful completion grants some bonus (extra attack die, extra defense die, air bases, etc.), and definitely adds some strategy to the game.
Finally the classic way of playing game, where you play until all players are eliminated and there is only one player left on the board.
I can’t say that this version of RISK is your typical classic RISK version as some changes has been introduced like for instance the cards reinforcements. In this RISK Revised the icon system where players had have a set of 3 identical icons or 3 unique icons of cards in order to get reinforcement is gone. Instead, it is replaced with stars, with each card offering 1 or 2 stars. Now card sets can be cashed in based on the total number of stars and the troops earned is the same each time based on the number of stars.
For all the RISK’s fans, this edition is perfect and offers you a very nice board design. You will be please to discover the new victory conditions that will help you add a little challenge to your game.
RISK Reinvention provides a bridge between the classic RISK experience and a more contemporary gaming sensibility. It’s a solid choice for players who want a balance of familiarity and innovation in their RISK gameplay.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5 | 60-90 min | 14+ |
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RISK Europe
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What about embarking in some epic medieval battles? This is exactly what this version of the game Risk Europe offers you.
I really want to finish my list of best strategy board games with, in my opinion, one of the best RISK game version released so far.
RISK Europe was released in 2016 by Hasbro and I feel this strategy board game deserve to be brought under the spotlight as it is a pure gem.
Unlike Risk Classic, Risk Europe has each player choose a starting capital for their Kingdom which will give them unique strengths and abilities. There are Castles to build and the rounds are organized with Kong’s order cards which give the possibility to carry out actions among four different ones.
To win the game you have to be the first player to control 7 crowns at the end of a round. The crowns can be bought or conquered.
In short. this game is exceptional and is pretty cheap to buy too. RISK Europe is perfect for anyone looking for a slightly less simplistic version than the classic RISK edition. And for`the fans of the Napoleonic era, Risk Europe is a real gem.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5 | 60-90 min | 14+ |
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Best RISK version: RISK thematic editions
RISK is a hugely popular game and different thematic versions have emerged over the years. Many take over the world of video games (Risk: Assassin’s Creed, Risk: The Elder Scrolls, RISK Halo, RISK: Battlefield Rogue, RISK: Metal Gear Solid…) , movies (RISK Star Wars, Risk: the Lord of the Rings, Risk: Captain America Civil War) or TV series (RISK Game of Thrones, RISK Doctor Who).
These special editions are an excellent opportunity for people looking to find a variation of their favorite strategy game while immersing themselves in the atmosphere of a world they are passionate about. The huge number of Star Wars fans or Game of Thrones universes will be delighted to find a game that will perfectly complement their collection of objects.
Also I have to mention what many consider like the best version of RISK ever made: Risk Legacy. Risk Legacy is different to all the different versions of Risk because it is a campaign game. It starts a bit like the classic Risk but each time you play afterward it adds a rule based on what happened during the game.
In summary, it is difficult to designate the best risk version of all. It largely depends a lot on everyone’s tastes and affinities.
RISK Legacy
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What is a legacy board game?
Legacy games are board games whose rules and components change over time based on the outcome of each game played and the choices made by the player(s). They will oftentimes make physical changes to the board game by, for example: marking the cards, placing stickers, destroying components, opening sealed packages, and so on.
The changes made in a Legacy game are designed to be permanent. A Legacy game’s full experience is played out in a campaign that can only be played once. To replay the full experience again, the player(s) would need to purchase another copy of the game or, if available, a “recharge pack”.
Official and unofficial methods to circumvent Legacy mechanics are common in popular Legacy games.
(source: Boardgamegeek.com)
As the other versions of Risk, Risk Legacy is about world domination. Players take their armies and march them across the different continents to try to take over the world. But there is a lot of differences between a classic version of Risk and Risk Legacy. The biggest one being that every decision you make, affect the rest of the game. Every game you play will change every future game. So a decision you make in Game 1 could come back to haunt you in Game 10.
There are stickers that you place on the board , those are permanent and can never be removed. Some of the cards will be destroyed during the game. You will find several sealed compartment. Those compartments don’t get opened until certain criteria are met in the game. You have no idea what is inside those compartments. Even the rule book won’t tell you. Sometimes you will find stickers inside those compartments that you need to place inside the rule book. So they effectively change the rules!
The risks you take in Risk Legacy are not like those in any other board game. You and the other players will shape how your world evolves: its history, its cities, even its factions and how they fight. You don’t forget past betrayals- and neither does the game. Unlock new rules and watch events unfold as you play more games. No two games will ever be the same. This Risk Legacy version might well be the best RISK version ever done…..
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 3-5 | 60 min | 14+ |
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RISK 2210 A.D.
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Risk 2210 A.D. was released in 2001 and published by Avalon Hill. Over the years there was a number of Risk version but this one is one of my favorite and deserve to figure on this list of best Risk version. Set in the not-so-distant future, battles are now fought by machines of destruction, known as MODs, for short. Human commanders still lead these mechanized troops, but these commanders, sort of special units, have special powers and abilities that you can find on the specialized Command cards. Those abilities can be stealth, rocket strike, Armageddon for instance. Those Commands cards really add a new dimension to the game and totally change the strategy. New territories were introduce in Risk 2210 A.D. with the underwater colonies and the moon and its own territories.
In RISK 2210 A.D., in addition to getting armies at the start of each turn, you also get energy, a sort of currency in the game that can be used to buy commander ‘s cards, hire new commanders, buy space stations and bid for turn order which can be very important because RISK 2210 is limited to just 5 rounds for every players (“five year war”).
Another change is the addition the ability for the Commander to roll an 8-sided die on defense at all times and to also roll an 8-sided die on offense in certain situations.
The new countries on the map, nuclear pieces,commander units, energy and commander cards add a much more diverse and strategic edge to the game-play and really make this game special. There is much more strategy and planning involved in this new version, but it should still appeal to the classic Risk fans. If you’re a RISK fan already, this is the game to try next.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5 | 180 min | 10+ |
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RISK Star Wars: the black series
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The Star Wars franchise
RISK Star Wars is a 2 player game , or alternatively, you can play with two team of two players.Players can test their skills by commanding Stormtroopers and other Star Wars characters in a strategic and skilled fight. Players can re-create the final moments of Star Wars: Return of the Jedi as they prepare a plan, arm for battle, and advance their troops in this cataclysmic fight for the future of the galaxy! Play as the Empire and destroy the Rebel fleet, or play as the Rebel Alliance and destroy the Death Star.
There are 3 main battles going on simultaneously during the game: Luke Skywalker against Darth Vaderthe,the attack on the Death Star, and the rebels trying to destroy the shield generator on the Moon of Endor. The Rebel player’s mission is to destroy the Death Star, but first they must destroy the shield generator protecting it on Endor. The Rebel player should be careful that the Emperor and Darth Vader don’t defeat Luke, though, as that will tilt the game to the dark side.
The Empire player’s mission is to defeat all Rebel ships before they destroy the Death Star. The Empire player must stop the Rebels from destroying the shield generator and make sure that Luke doesn’t win his duel with Darth Vader or worse, redeem him and strengthen the Rebels’ assault.
The game includes 3 gameboard pieces, 20 X-Wings, 16 Y-Wings, 15 B-Wings, 56 TIE Fighters, 6 Rebel fleet markers, Millennium Falcon ship with stand, Executor with stand, Death Star with stand, 4 hit tokens, 9 Stormtrooper figures, Rebel Strike Team token, 30 Empire order cards, 30 Rebel order cards, 5 translucent dice, and game guide.
The game is great, and really one of the best RISK version out there, and not only for Star Wars fans. It’s light, fun, fast as it takes just about 45 minutes to play. All the little models looks amazing
You probably wonder what is the difference between this black deluxe edition and the cheaper $25 to $30 edition? the answer is simple: the game is effectively the same but all the components are way better quality: the Black edition has miniatures for the Death Star, Millenium Falcon, and Executor, as well as having much nicer cards to play with and translucent dice. The box and the board are also designed better. Well worth it. Risk Star Wars makes a great family game and has to be one of the best RISK version released so far.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-4 | 30-45 min | 10+ |
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RISK Game Of Thrones
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Risk Game Of Thrones is a 2 to 7 players RISK game that includes 2 different maps: the Essos map for a 2 player games or the map of Westeros for 3-5 player games. The good thing is that you can even combine those two maps and create a huge map and play with 6 or 7 players (the world at war mode). There is components for 7 players with unique sculpts for each House armies and individual plastic containers to hold the units.
This is RISK, were players are moving from country to country to take over the world. But this is RISK at another level!
You can play the skirmish rules that take the game-play of the traditional RISK. The winner is determined by which player controls the most territories, castles and ports when the end game card is revealed.
But the most interesting rules for me are the Dominion rules that really bring the Game Of Thrones elements into play. New elements are brought into the games like gold that can be used as a resource. You get gold for how many ports you have and how many troops you have. You can use that gold to buy Maester cards that grant tactical advantages during deployment and battles. You can also use Gold to activate your character card that provide you with special abilities in battle. Finally, you can use Gold to buy objective cards that create goals and strategies for earning Victory Points. Objectives are worth from 1 to 4 Victory Points, based on the difficulty to achieve them. The end goal is to get 10 Victories Points.
I love the addition of ports and castle in the game. Ports can be devastating and become a huge strategic advantage in the game. Ports of matching colors can invade one another as if they were adjacent, meaning players separated geographically can still fight if they are connected by the sea. Castles give you bonuses on your troops.
So there really is a new level of strategy in RISK Game Of Thrones and I can’t emphasis that enough. I really thing this version of RISK will please the Game Of Thrones fans but also the players that are unfamiliar with the series . This has to be one of the best RISK version.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-7 | 120-240 min | 10+ |
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RISK Lord of the Rings
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Step into the world of the Lord of the Rings with this special edition of Risk! In this special edition of RISK Lord of the Rings, you will decide the fate of people of Middle Earth. Choose whether to command a Good or an Evil force, and battle against rival armies in a bid to decide the fate of Middle-earth. Play on a detailed game board, battle with specially-sculpted characters including Orcs, Dark Riders, Eagles and Cave Trolls, and push for victory before the One Ring leaves Middle-earth forever.
If you want to play the classic RISK you can use the RISK Lord of the Rings board and play the standard edition.
There is several differences between the classic RISK on this RISK Lord of the Rings edition:
- You will find new characters i the game, the Eleven Archers, Orcs, the Riders of Rohan, the Dark Riders and so on.
- You can either play Good or Evil for the battle of control.
- There are leader pieces and stronghold spaces, which both give you bonuses during combat phases.
- Missions have been replaced by adventures which when completed, give you bonuses.
- The game end is determined by the movement of the fellowship piece.
Note also that with this edition of RISK, certain feature on the map are impassable, like the mountains and rivers that can only be crossed at a bridge
Risk lord of the rings vs trilogy edition
Note that the original edition of RISK Lord of the Rings released in 2002 is based of the 2 parts of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. It does not include Gondor and Mordor as well as Harad and the south. You will need to get the RISK Lord of the Rings Trilogy Edition. The trilogy edition also includes the One Ring as opposed to the cardboard version in the original version.
The version that I link below is a newer version that has the full map with Mordor (expansion map).
The components of the games look great. The armies pieces are very well made. They are very sturdy and nicely detailed plastic.
I think that Risk Lord Of the Rings is fun to play, pretty lightweight compared to some other RISK thematic games. Would be an ideal version for casual or non-gamers.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-4 | 120 min | 9+ |
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Risk Godstorm
Renegade Game Studios: Risk: Godstorm - Command 5 Ancient Cultures! War Strategy Board Game, Rules for Godstorm & Classic Risk,...
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Risk Godstorm uses the basic combat elements of classic Risk but alters many other elements. The game is played on an ancient map of the world that focuses on Europe and Northern Africa. Atlantis is also present and highly desirable however a chaotic event can see the fabled city sink into oblivion, taking all the forces present there with it.
At its core the players are trying to control territories and controlling entire continents earns the players bonus units to deploy and further their cause.
One of the key differences to classic Risk is that the Underworld can be invaded and defeated units can also be sent to the Underworld to fight again, with some proving themselves worthy enough to return to the Earth.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5 | 120 min | 10+ |
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Risk Warhammer 40 000
Board Game Based on Warhammer 40k from Games Workshop | Officially Licensed Warhammer 40,000 Merchandise | Themed Risk Game
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Risk: Warhammer 40,000 is a unique crossover game that brings the classic strategy of Risk into the dark and battle-hardened universe of Warhammer 40k. Published by Games Workshop and officially licensed as part of the Warhammer 40,000 franchise, this themed version of Risk lets players experience galactic conquest with a new level of immersion. Designed for 2 to 5 players aged 10 and up, this game is ideal for both longtime Warhammer 40k fans and Risk enthusiasts alike.
Theme and Gameplay
In Risk: Warhammer 40,000, players control armies from iconic factions within the Warhammer universe, including the Space Marines, Orks, Chaos Space Marines, Aeldari, and Genestealers. Each faction has unique strengths, adding a layer of strategic depth beyond the original Risk game. The game is set on a map designed to resemble planets in the Warhammer universe, and players must conquer territories, strategize resource management, and engage in battles for dominance.
The basic Risk mechanics remain intact, with players taking turns to reinforce territories, invade neighboring regions, and roll dice to determine the outcome of battles. However, Risk: Warhammer 40,000 includes faction-specific abilities and some new rules that add layers to standard gameplay. These unique abilities allow players to bring Warhammer’s tactical feel into play, enhancing the classic Risk experience with a more thematic and personalized approach. Special Event Cards also add twists, making the game feel more dynamic as players encounter unexpected boosts or challenges.
Component Quality
Games Workshop has done a fantastic job ensuring that Risk: Warhammer 40,000 feels like a high-quality product. The game comes with customized, detailed miniatures for each faction, as well as themed cards and a beautifully illustrated map. These additions bring a level of authenticity that is essential for Warhammer fans and contribute to the game’s visual appeal. The components are durable, and the miniatures add a collectible aspect to the game, making it a standout edition among Risk versions.
Why It’s Great for Fans of Warhammer and Risk
Risk: Warhammer 40,000 successfully combines the classic appeal of Risk with the strategic, immersive elements that Warhammer fans love. By including faction-specific abilities and setting the game within a familiar universe, it caters well to those already invested in Warhammer’s lore. It’s also a good entry point for new players who may be unfamiliar with Warhammer but enjoy the straightforward strategy of Risk. The streamlined mechanics mean younger players and families can easily learn and enjoy the game, while the added thematic elements will keep long-time fans engaged.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5 | 60-120 min | 10+ |
Board Game Based on Warhammer 40k from Games Workshop | Officially Licensed Warhammer 40,000 Merchandise | Themed Risk Game
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