Mertwig’s Maze

About this board game

Mertwig’s Maze is a lighthearted fantasy board game for 2–6 players, with a play time of about 100 minutes, first released in 1988.

Wise King Mertwig is dying, but his kingdom has no clear heir. His twin children were stolen by gypsies as babies, so he announces a contest: whoever can present him with a Royal Treasure and a Royal Birthmark will inherit the throne.

Finding these royal prizes is only the beginning. Once a would-be heir has tracked them down, they must brave the dangers of Mertwig’s Maze and reach the finish before the other players. The journey also means getting past the formidable Mystic Musk Ox while racing to claim the kingdom before Mertwig passes on.

The game combines a colorful fantasy quest with a wide range of cards that can support your own search or hinder your opponents. Its components include:

• A large game map and eight smaller maps
• Full-color counters
• Hundreds of cards featuring hirelings, magical items, arms and armor, and random events

These cards and maps bring the kingdom’s hazards, treasures, and unexpected encounters to the table. Players take the role of would-be royal heirs, pursuing the requirements of the contest while attempting to complete the dangerous journey through the maze.

Designed by Tom Wham, known for games published in Dragon magazine including Snit Smashing and Snit’s Revenge, Mertwig’s Maze offers a playful fantasy race for ages 10 and up. Can you find both royal requirements, survive the maze, and reach the finish before your rivals?