Above and Below: Haunted is a standalone board game created to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the original Above and Below. It is designed by Ryan Laukat and published by Red Raven Games, known for their narrative-driven games with “cozy euro” mechanics.
The game is set in the world of Arzium, specifically in eerie swampy landscapes where players build a village and explore the watery caves beneath it. The world is filled with ghosts, mysteries, and fantasy creatures that influence the course of the game. Each exploration leads to short story events that players read aloud.
The game is played over 7 rounds, during which players use their villagers to perform various actions.
Players send villagers into the caves, where narrative adventures unfold. Regardless of success, they gain cave cards, which reduce the risks of future exploration. Ghosts can haunt buildings and lower a player’s reputation. Players can exorcise them and even move one onto an opponent’s building, adding a layer of player interaction. Building both above and below ground expands the player’s board and provides various bonuses. Cheaper villagers may bring ghosts with them, as they come from the dangerous swamp. Harvesting combines previous actions to gain resources and coins.
There are also free actions, such as trading goods, using boats to roll dice, or gaining coins. The game includes set collection, resource management, narrative choices, and action point mechanics.
If you’re looking for a game that blends fantasy village-building, light strategy, and narrative exploration, Above and Below: Haunted is an excellent choice for thematic game nights. 👻
