DUEL OF MELOCH

Duel of Meloch: Scythe meets Expeditions

Duel of Meloch is a standalone strategy board game that brings Scythe and Expeditions together in a head-to-head clash. One player uses Scythe rules and components, while the other uses Expeditions rules and components. Compete on a compact map in a race to earn four stars, with every turn shaping the outcome.

Game at a glance

• Players: 1–2
• Recommended age: 14+
• Playing time: Approximately 45 minutes
• Designer: Jamey Stegmaier
• Art and worldbuilding: Jakub Rozalski
• Publisher: Stonemaier Games
• Game style: Competitive asymmetric strategy, with solo play supported
• Requirements: Standalone; neither Scythe nor Expeditions is required

How do you play?

The two sides use different systems: the Scythe side includes a new faction and player mat, while the Expeditions side includes a new mech, character, and companion. Familiarity with the corresponding original game helps each player learn their side of the duel.

A double-sided map with just 10 locations and 2 lakes brings opponents into close competition. Race to four stars on the double-sided Triumph Track. Whenever you place a star, Meloch gives your opponent a small boost, keeping pressure on the leading player.

Standalone game and crossover content

Everything needed to play the standard duel is included. If you already own Scythe or Expeditions content, you can introduce additional options to the matchup. Owning the relevant additional components also makes Scythe-versus-Scythe or Expeditions-versus-Expeditions duels possible.

The crossover works in both directions. Duel of Meloch also provides content for use in the original games, including a new Scythe faction and player mat, a new set of 60 combat cards, 3 Factory cards, and 6 encounter cards. Expeditions gains a new mech, character, companion, and 30 discovery cards.

Who is it for?

Choose Duel of Meloch if you enjoy asymmetric strategy and a focused two-player rivalry. It is especially appealing when one player knows Scythe and the other knows Expeditions: each can bring a familiar system to a shared battlefield without needing both original boxes.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need Scythe or Expeditions to play?

No. Duel of Meloch is a standalone game with the components needed for its standard matchup.

Can Duel of Meloch be played solo?

Yes. Stonemaier lists the game for 1–2 players.

Can both players use the same game system?

Yes, with additional compatible components. Stonemaier supports Scythe-versus-Scythe and Expeditions-versus-Expeditions duels if you own the corresponding game or the relevant Invaders from Afar or Gears of Corruption expansion.

Which existing components are compatible?

Stonemaier lists Scythe factions, player mats, encounter cards, and Factory cards as compatible, along with Expeditions mechs, characters, companions, items, meteorites, and the quests that match this smaller map. Quests for locations 11–20 are not used.

How long does a duel take?

Allow approximately 45 minutes. The recommended age is 14 and up.