A look at Relic from Fantasy Flight Games - their Warhammer 40K-themed take on Talisman. Is it just a reskin, or something more?
The Verdict: It’s about 60% Talisman, but the 40% that’s different makes it stand out as its own game.
What’s the Same:
- Roll-to-move around outer/middle/inner regions
- Draw encounter cards, fight enemies, collect gear
- Level up by trading trophies (6 points here vs 7 in Talisman)
- Race to the centre to win
- Need a Relic (like a Talisman) to enter inner region
What’s Different:
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Power Cards - Dual-use cards: spend as a guaranteed die result (1-6) OR trigger a special ability. Adds meaningful choices.
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Mission Deck - Complete 3 missions to earn a Relic. Missions give goals like “kill Tyranids” or “defeat Eldar.”
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Relics Have Powers - Unlike Talismans, Relics grant actual abilities (extra life, healing charges, etc.)
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Corruption System - Draw corruption cards from Warp exposure. If card number matches your total corruption, it activates (mutations - good or bad). 6 corruption = death.
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Leveling System - Dial-based tracking with class-specific advancement paths.
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Three Encounter Decks - Red (Strength/Orcs), Blue (Willpower/Tyranids), Yellow (Cunning/Eldar)
Playing Setup:
- Using Kairos Fateweaver scenario
- Playing solo with dummy player rules (from BGG)
- Halls of Terra expansion owned but rarely used (board too big)
House Rules:
- Close enough rule for corner spaces
- Otherwise plays well as-is
Characters: Commissar, Imperial Guard, Ratling Sniper, Sister Hospitaler, Terminator, Rogue Trader, Inquisitor, Psyker, Canoness, Tech Priest, Ultramarine Captain, Callidus Assassin
A worthy companion to Talisman rather than a replacement.