Every great game begins with a good setup, and Neverrift is no exception! Before the first card is played and the battle begins, players need to prepare their boards, organize their decks, and get everything ready for the adventure ahead. Although setup might seem like a series of small tasks, each step helps create a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the game setup process, from choosing your player count to drawing your opening hand.
1. Decide Who’s Playing
The first step is to determine the number of players joining the game. Knowing your player count helps everyone prepare the right number of boards, decks, and tokens before the action begins.
Once everyone is ready, it’s time to choose your decks. Pick the decks you’ll be playing with and make sure you have everything needed for your match.
2. Set Up the Boards
Next, place the main board or boards in the center of the playing area. Make sure every player can comfortably reach them throughout the game.
Each player should then place their own player board directly in front of them. Having everything within easy reach makes it easier to manage your cards, follow the game, and focus on your strategy.
A little planning at this stage can make a big difference once the game gets underway!
3. Choose Your Playing Direction
Before continuing, players need to decide which direction their cards will be played in.
The recommended arrangement is to sit side by side, allowing everyone to view and play their cards in the intended direction. However, players can also choose to sit opposite one another if that arrangement works better for their table.
Keep in mind that sitting opposite each other may mean some players will be playing with their cards upside down. It’s a small detail, but agreeing on the arrangement beforehand helps prevent confusion later.
4. Pick Your Side and Determine the First Player
With the boards in place, players can choose their side of the tokens.
After that, determine who will take the first turn. Whether you decide randomly or use another agreed-upon method, establishing the first player now means everyone knows when the game will begin.
Once these decisions are made, the battlefield is almost ready!
5. Shuffle Your Decks and Prepare Your Cards
Now it’s time to get the cards ready.
Each player should shuffle their deck thoroughly to ensure a randomized draw. After shuffling, place your deck and your tamers on your player board.
This keeps your essential game components organized and ready to use as the match progresses.
6. Draw Your Opening Hand
With everything in place, each player draws six cards from their deck.
These six cards form your starting hand and give you your first set of options for approaching the game. Take a moment to look over your hand and consider the possibilities available to you.
But don’t worry if your opening hand isn’t quite what you hoped for. Neverrift gives you one opportunity to make adjustments before the game begins!
7. Mulligan
One of the most useful parts of the setup process is the mulligan.
A mulligan allows you to put up to three cards from your opening hand back into your deck. You then shuffle your deck and draw the same number of cards you returned.
For example, if you return two cards, you shuffle your deck and draw two replacements.
There are two important rules to remember:
- You can return a maximum of three cards.
- You can use the mulligan only once per game.
The mulligan gives you a chance to improve your starting hand if some of your cards don’t fit the strategy you want to pursue. Think carefully before using it, because once you’ve taken your mulligan, that opportunity is gone!
Ready to Play Neverrift?
Setting up Neverrift is all about getting organized before the real decisions begin. From arranging the boards and choosing your side to preparing your deck and drawing six opening cards, every step helps ensure that the game starts smoothly.
And remember: your opening hand matters! Take advantage of the mulligan when you think it will help, but consider your options before sending cards back into your deck.
Once the boards are ready, the decks are shuffled, and everyone has their starting hand, it’s time to put your plans into action.