Dominion Expansions

Sheila Fuller
15 min readSep 11, 2024
Dominion-Expansions-1

If you're a fan of the game Dominion, then have we got some exciting news for you! In this roundup, we delve into the world of Dominion Expansions, highlighting the best additions and enhancements to the base game. Get ready for an immersive journey as we explore the realms of treasured card decks, promising hours of strategic gameplay and fun. So sit back, relax, and join us on a journey through the ever-expanding universe of Dominion. Let's embark on this exquisite adventure together!

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Reviews

Cosmic Dominion: New Alien Encounters Board Game Expansion

Cosmic Dominion: New Alien Encounters Board Game Expansion | Image

Prepare for a cosmic showdown with the Fantasy Flight Games Cosmic Dominion Encounters Board Game Expansion! This thrilling expansion adds an exhilarating twist to the classic Cosmic Encounter game, featuring 30 fan-designed aliens, 32 unique reward cards, 30 flare cards, and 13 game tokens.

Cosmic Dominion takes your tabletop experience to another dimension, allowing players to immerse themselves in a competitive adventure, each determined to rule the galaxy. With four new game variants and ship markers, you and your friends can create your own unique encounters and battle it out. This fantastical expansion is a must-have for any board game lover, providing endless entertainment and strategic gameplay.

Dominion Base Card Expansion: New Challengers Await

Dominion Base Card Expansion: New Challengers Await | Image

When it comes to Dominion: Base Cards, it's all about convenience and customization. For a game enthusiast like me, this product is a godsend, especially when it comes to playing in a group. The set allows for up to 6 players, and the cards themselves are redesigned for better visual appeal. However, sometimes the bigger, more intricate images can make it a bit difficult to quickly identify the value or cost of a card.

One of the standout features of this product is the addition of base cards that can be used in conjunction with Dominion or Dominion: Intrigue versions, making it a valuable purchase for those who own multiple copies of the game. The cards themselves are of great quality, with a subtle gloss and sturdy material that can withstand numerous shuffles.

But this addition isn't without its pros and cons. On the plus side, the expanded player count is a major advantage, especially considering it's so often challenging to invite a larger group of friends to play a card game. The new base card designs also add a layer of creativity to the game that wasn't there before, making it more visually interesting.

On the other hand, the increased amount of base cards can also lead to a bit of a learning curve for people who are new to the game. It's not always clear what each card does at first glance, so I've found myself referring to the rulebook more often than I would with the standard Dominion set.

Overall, though, the pros outweigh the cons, and Dominion: Base Cards is an excellent addition to any card game enthusiast's collection. Its ability to accommodate larger groups while adding interesting new elements to the game is a testament to its quality and versatility.

Dominion: Expansions for Empires

Dominion: Expansions for Empires | Image

Dominion: Empires, a captivating expansion to the much-loved game of Dominion, takes players on a thrilling journey as they navigate their empire with style and cunning. This highly-rated addition boasts a whopping 300 cards and 96 metal tokens, promising hours of strategic fun.

The game seamlessly integrates Debt tokens, allowing players to buy cards but pay for them later, and a variety of Events which offer intriguing options. As you explore the game's innovative Landmarks, you'll discover new and exciting ways to accumulate points, adding an extra layer of excitement to your Dominion experience.

Dominion: Empires offers more complexity compared to its predecessors, with the inclusion of Split piles and extra Events, enhancing the overall gameplay. Despite the additional intricacy, the expansion manages to maintain its captivating charm and elegant simplicity.

A must-have addition to your Dominion collection, Dominion: Empires will have you immersed in the role of an emperor, navigating through both challenges and triumphs with every card you play. Whether you're a seasoned Dominion veteran or a newcomer to the realm, this expansion will surely elevate your Dominion experience to new heights.

Dominion Renaissance: 12th Dominion Expansion for Card Strategists

Dominion Renaissance: 12th Dominion Expansion for Card Strategists | Image

Dominion Renaissance - Rio Grande Games takes the already addictive Dominion deck-building game to a new level of depth and strategy. Adding a whopping 300 cards, including 25 intriguing new King cards, this expansion brings fresh approaches to deck construction and play.

The addition of tokens that allow players to save coins or actions for later adds not only strategic options but a greater sense of overall game control. The concept of Project cards, granting in-game abilities, offers a new layer of tactical gameplay.

As artifacts are introduced, not only are they collectible elements to entice players, they also provide a coveted target for competition. Although some users have noted that fewer cards are included as compared to other sets and suggested that the metal tokens may not be a significant enhancement worth the extra cost, overall, Dominion Renaissance is well-received and highly appreciated by its players.

Dominion Adventures: Rio Grande Games Expansion

Dominion Adventures: Rio Grande Games Expansion | Image

Imagine embarking on a thrilling quest, where each adventure you take is filled with excitement, mystery, and the promise of untold treasures. This is the spirit that the Dominion Adventures expansion brings to life in the Dominion world of Rio Grande Games.

In my experience, the game captured my interest from the moment I heard about the addition of new cards, tokens, and mats. The game mechanics and strategy are ever-evolving, keeping players on their toes and always on the lookout for the next big discovery.

One of the standout features is the inclusion of Event cards. These provide an extra layer of depth to the game, allowing players to enhance their gameplay with one-time bonuses. As a fan of the Dominion base set, I was eager to see how these new cards would fit in, and I must say, the excitement level has only risen with the addition of Reserve cards.

Along with Reserve cards, there are the new Traveler cards. These provide an excellent addition to the card collection, offering the player the choice to upgrade them by the end of a turn. The opportunity to explore these cards further has added a fresh dynamic to my gameplay.

However, there was a mild challenge in grasping the concept of these new cards and how they fit into the game's existing mechanics. As someone who enjoys the challenge of understanding and mastering a game, this served as a nice balance, enhancing my overall enjoyment of Dominion Adventures.

In conclusion, the Dominion Adventures expansion has delivered a thrilling addition to the Dominion gaming world. With its new Event cards, Reserve cards, and Traveler cards, the game offers fresh challenges and provides depth to an already beloved game. It has further solidified Dominion's position as a favorite among those who enjoy strategy games and treasure hunting.

Rising Sun Board Game: Dominion Expansion (Early Bird PREORDER)

Rising Sun Board Game: Dominion Expansion (Early Bird PREORDER) | Image

Rising Sun is a captivating expansion to the classic deck-building game, Dominion. With its unique blend of strategy and storytelling, the game takes you on a voyage where you're the pirate king, traversing through treacherous waters brimming with all kinds of treasures. The 16th addition to the Dominion lineup, Rising Sun offers 300 cards, each bringing new dynamics to the table.

My experience with Rising Sun felt like an uncharted journey. The new Kingdom card piles, as well as the return of Debt and Events, introduced exciting twists that kept me glued to my chair. The Shadow cards added a layer of suspense, and the Prophecies sparked intrigue. However, the 25-player limit might be a minor drawback for some gamers who prefer larger groups.

Overall, Rising Sun is a fantastic addition to the Dominion family. It's an adventure on the high seas, filled with unexpected turns and breathtaking twists that will leave gamers clamoring for more.

Dominion Allies Expansion: Enhance Your Game Experience

Dominion Allies Expansion: Enhance Your Game Experience | Image

Meet Dominion Allies Expansion, a strategy game that takes you on a journey through the Dark Ages. In this thrilling adventure, you'll face challenges such as looting, plague, and illiteracy, but with the help of your allies, you'll be able to conquer them all. The lush, detailed artwork and engaging gameplay will keep you entertained for hours on end.

Although this expansion adds more complexity compared to earlier versions, it provides the perfect balance for players who are ready for a new challenge without feeling overwhelmed. With split pile kingdom cards, distance cards, and the ability to add ally cards and favors whenever you're ready, Dominion Allies is the next step in your quest for Dominion Supreme.

Dominion: Dark Ages Expansion - Enhance Your Dominion Experience

Dominion: Dark Ages Expansion — Enhance Your Dominion Experience | Image

Introducing Dominion: Dark Ages Expansion, a thrilling addition to the Dominion game that brings depth and excitement to your playing experience. With its 500 cards, you'll find yourself immersed in the chaos of the Dark Ages as you battle against plagues, barbarians, and more. This expansion offers a unique take on the game's themes of trash and upgrading, with cards that are not only challenging but also rewarding when used correctly.

Dominion: Dark Ages Expansion adds intrigue and complexity to the game, making it a must-have for Dominion enthusiasts. Its 35 new Kingdom cards, Ruins, Shelters, and cards that only become available through specific others bring a fresh twist to the classic Dominion gameplay. Despite its 500-card count, the expansion is not a standalone game and requires the original Dominion base set to be played.

This expansion is designed with a balanced mix of fun, craftsmanship, and ease of storage in mind. It encourages strategic thinking and creative deck-building to help players better navigate the treacherous times of the Dark Ages. With its 23 glowing reviews and an impressive rating of 4.7, Dominion: Dark Ages Expansion is a must-try for Dominion fans and an excellent addition to any Dominion collection.

Dominion 2nd Edition Big Box: Deck Building Game with Expansions for 5-6 Players

Dominion 2nd Edition Big Box: Deck Building Game with Expansions for 5–6 Players | Image

The Dominion Big Box brings hours of fun and entertainment for both families and friends. It includes an additional base deck, the Dominion Intrigue expansion, and enough cards for 5-6 players to engage in the exciting gameplay.

This classic deck-building game is suitable for children aged 13 and above, making it the perfect gift for any occasion. With its easy-to-learn rules and craftsmanship, Dominion is a must-have for anyone seeking a thrilling, strategy-based card game.

Dominion Alchemy Expansion: Enhance Your Dominion Deck

Dominion Alchemy Expansion: Enhance Your Dominion Deck | Image

I recently got my hands on Dominion: Alchemy, the latest expansion for this beloved deck-building game. The setting, your very own basement laboratory, is quite enchanting - where lead turns to gold and hair is the new currency. While it's a smaller extension compared to others, it still manages to add some intriguing twists.

One of the highlights for me was the introduction of potions as a new currency. These are used to buy most of the cards in this set, and though it can feel a bit awkward at first, it adds an interesting layer of strategy to the game. I also appreciate that this expansion caters specifically to fans who are already familiar with the base sets.

However, there have been some complaints about missing cards and poor packaging. Thankfully, my copy arrived complete and without any damage. If you're a fan of Dominion, Alchemy is definitely worth adding to your collection. But be prepared for a shorter playtime compared to other expansions.

Popular Dominion War Expansion for Star Trek: Ascendancy Game

Popular Dominion War Expansion for Star Trek: Ascendancy Game | Image

The Dominion War Expansion for Star Trek Ascendancy takes the game to a whole new level with the addition of the Dominion as a playable civilization. Players can explore the Bajoran Wormhole, leading to the Gamma Quadrant, and discover new Exploration Cards, Space Lanes, and Resource Nodes. The expansion introduces a Dominion war variant, dividing civilizations into two rival alliances, making for an exciting gaming experience.

All the components needed to add the Dominion and another player to your game of Star Trek Ascendancy are included in this package, ensuring endless hours of entertainment. The Dominion War Expansion provides a fresh perspective on the game while maintaining the classic Star Trek feel, making it a worthy addition to any board game collection.

Dominion 2nd Edition Prosperity Expansion

Dominion 2nd Edition Prosperity Expansion | Image

The Dominion Prosperity 2nd Edition expansion is a welcome addition to my Dominion collection, replacing the original edition from 2010. The gameplay is enhanced with depth and complexity, making it a must-have for Dominion players aged 14 and up. Made of high quality materials, the cards feel sturdy and durable, a perfect companion for my gaming sessions.

One of the standout features of this expansion is the addition of new Kingdom cards, which bring in treasures with abilities, cards that interact with treasures, and powerful expensive cards. These elements significantly deepen the gameplay, making it an engaging and strategic experience. However, it can be argued that the introduction of wealth as a central theme could make it initially intimidating for some players.

Overall, the Dominion Prosperity 2nd Edition is a well-crafted and thoughtfully designed expansion that enhances the game without overcomplicating it. The high-quality materials and the immersive wealth theme create an engaging and enjoyable gaming experience for players aged 14 and up.

Expansion Pack for Dominion Menagerie

Expansion Pack for Dominion Menagerie | Image

When I picked up the Dominion Menagerie Expansion, I knew I was about to dive into a whole new world of card games. This time, we're animal lovers at heart, with each beautiful illustration representing an intriguing new adventure. The game boasts an impressive 400 cards, with 30 new Kingdom Cards, leaving plenty of opportunities to add a personal touch.

One of the highlights of this expansion is its compatibility with all other Dominion expansions, making it a perfect addition for any strategy card game enthusiast. But let me tell you, this 13th expansion to the Dominion series is far from basic – it requires the original basic cards and rulebook to play, so be prepared to show off your favorite collection.

I have to say, there's a certain charm to the Dominion Menagerie Expansion. Watching each animal bring its own unique twist to the gameplay creates a joyful atmosphere. While there's a learning curve, once you get the hang of it, expect hours of fun and excitement. Of course, there's always a little bit of frustration when those clever animals outsmart you – but I guess that's what keeps the game interesting!

This isn't just a game; it's an experience. So gather your deck of cards and let's put our animal knowledge to the test!

Buyer's Guide

When it comes to Dominion Expansions, there are several important features, considerations, and general advice you should keep in mind. Whether you're a seasoned Dominion player or a newcomer, understanding these aspects will help you make the most of your gaming experience.

What Are Dominion Expansions?

Dominion Expansions are additional sets of cards that can be added to the base game of Dominion. These expansions introduce new cards, tactics, and mechanics, making the game more diverse and challenging. Some expansions also include new cards that can be used to enhance the base game, providing even more variety and replayability.

Types of Dominion Expansions

There are several types of Dominion Expansions, each offering a unique experience. Some of the most popular types include: Alchemy, Seaside, Cornucopia, Dark Ages, Guilds, Prosperity, and Intrigue. Each expansion adds its own set of cards, strategies, and mechanics, so it's essential to understand the differences before choosing which expansion to add to your game.

Considerations When Choosing a Dominion Expansion

When selecting a Dominion Expansion, consider the following factors: the complexity level, the number of players, the type of cards included, and your personal preferences. Some expansions are more challenging than others, so ensure that the expansion you choose aligns with your skill level and the skill levels of the other players. Also, consider the number of players you'll be playing with, as some expansions are better suited for a specific number of players.

General Advice for Dominion Expansions

To get the most out of your Dominion Expansion, follow these general tips: read the instructions carefully, familiarize yourself with the new cards and mechanics, experiment with different strategies, and most importantly, have fun. Remember that the goal of the game is to enjoy yourself, so don't be too hard on yourself if you don't win every time. Whether you're playing with friends or family, Dominion Expansions provide hours of entertainment and excitement.

FAQ

What is Dominion?

Dominion is a deck-building card game designed by Donald X. Vaccarino. It challenges players to strategically collect and play cards to develop their own kingdoms, with the ultimate goal of having the most victory points. The base game covers two kingdoms of 25 cards each, with a total of 50 cards. Dominion has been praised for its balance, strategic depth, and replay value.

The game features various themes, such as the Seaside expansion, and additional kingdoms like Hinterlands or Cornucopia to add to the original Dominion set. The deck-building experience can range from simple to complex, attracting players of all skill levels to explore the game's multitude of combinations and interactions.

What are Dominion expansions?

Expansions for Dominion are additional sets of cards, containing 25 cards each, that introduce new cards, actions, kingdoms, and rules to the original game. They enhance and expand the gameplay by offering fresh game mechanics, alternative ways to gain victory points, and additional strategic options. Expansions allow players to experience the game in new ways and keep the experience engaging and interesting.

Some popular Dominion expansions include Seaside, Alchemist, Cornucopia, Hinterlands, and Dark Ages. Each expansion brings its own unique flavor and mechanics to Dominion, introducing new challenges and tactics for players to explore and master. Dominion expansions are designed to be mixed and matched with the base set, so players can choose which expansions they'd like to incorporate in their games.

What are the rules for Dominion?

The rules for Dominion are relatively simple and intuitive. Players start with a basic deck consisting of 10 cards – one action from each of the five types: Actions, Treasures, Victory, Kingdom, and Trash. Actions allow players to draw cards, gain resources, or interact with the game board, while Treasures serve as a form of currency that can be traded in for victory points. Victory cards are worth points for their owner, and Kingdom cards create a shared pool of victory points.

Players draw five cards from their deck, and then discard one card from their hand. Players take turns playing cards from their hands to the game table, which creates a shared pool of cards called the "play area. " The card in the play area has its effect resolved, and then it is returned to the player's hand. This process continues until a player's deck runs out of cards, at which point they will shuffle their discard pile back into their deck and continue playing.

Can Dominion expansions be played together?

Yes, Dominion expansions can be combined and played together with the base set. The game is designed to be flexible, allowing players to choose which expansions they'd like to introduce to the game. Some people prefer to mix and match different combinations of expansions to create unique gameplay experiences, while others will only play with a single expansion at a time.

Ultimately, the decision of which Dominion expansions to use is up to the players and depends on their preferences, the number of players at the table, and the desired level of complexity. Since Domion is a modular game, players can enjoy the core experience and then gradually incorporate additional expansions as they become more familiar with the game and its mechanics.

What are some tips for beginners playing Dominion?

Although Dominion's basic rules are quite straightforward, it can be challenging for beginners to grasp the various interactions and strategies involved in the game. Here are some tips for new players to help them get started and make the most of their Dominion experience: ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  1. Learn the types of cards: Familiarize yourself with the five types of cards in Dominion – Actions, Treasures, Victory, Kingdom, and Trash – and their respective functions. This understanding will help you make better decisions when deciding which cards to play and which cards to discard or keep in your deck.

How many expansions can be played together in Dominion?

There is no strict limit on the number of Dominion expansions that can be played together. However, it is recommended to start with one or two expansions and gradually incorporate additional expansions as you become more familiar with the game and its mechanics. As the number of expansions increases, so will the complexity of the game, so players should be prepared for a more challenging experience.

It is also important to consider how well the expansions complement each other. Some expansions may contain cards that interact poorly with others, which could result in an unbalanced or frustrating gameplay experience. Players should be mindful of the interactions between the expansions and choose combinations that create a smooth and enjoyable game for all involved.

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