Gruff

About this board game

Gruff is a tactical Expandable Card Game for 2–4 players, with games lasting about 30 minutes. Players create customized teams of mutated monster goats called Gruffs, each led by a shepherd.

The goal is direct and dangerous: crush through the enemy line of Gruffs and kill the opposing shepherd. Every decision contributes to the struggle between the two teams as players use ability cards and look for the right moment to attack.

On a turn, a player may play ability cards and declare an attack. Once an attack has been declared, the opponent takes their turn and can respond before the attack resolves.

• Build a customized team of mutated monster goats
• Play ability cards to shape the battle
• Dodge or block attacks before declaring one of your own
• Break through the opposing line and kill the enemy shepherd

An attack does not resolve immediately. Instead, it resolves at the beginning of the attacking player’s next turn, giving the opponent an opportunity to dodge or block it and then launch an attack in return.

This alternating rhythm makes Gruff a tactical contest of timing and response. Players must manage the flow of ability cards, anticipate the opponent’s defense, and decide how to press their attack while protecting their own shepherd.

Released in 2015, Gruff focuses on an unusual battle between customized teams of monster goats. Its turn structure keeps attacks moving back and forth as each player attempts to break the enemy line and reach the opposing shepherd.