HOW to WIN as the UNDERGROUND DUCHY | Root Strategy Guide

Revisiting the Forest: Strategies for Playing the Underground Duchy

Introduction to the Underground Duchy

• Sam Smith introduces the topic, focusing on the Underground Duchy faction in "Root," a game involving various animal factions.

• The discussion highlights previous topics covered, including other factions like the Marquis and their control over the forest.

Key Strategies for Playing as Moles

• Emphasizes that the Underground Duchy is a slow-burning faction requiring patience and strategic planning.

• First tip: "Turtle" in 2-3 clearings with 3-4 moles to protect buildings effectively; losing buildings can be detrimental.

Building Strategy

• Aim for two-slot clearings, especially if a vagabond is present; prioritize gaining good relationships with them.

• Focus on consolidating buildings in single clearings to enhance protection and avoid spreading resources too thin.

Action Management

• Limited actions during birdsong necessitate crafting cards that provide additional movement options, such as Command Warren and Cobbler.

• New strategies from exile and partisans deck include crafting Eyrie and Missouri cards for enhanced action flexibility.

Crafting Opportunities

• Highlighted importance of card draw; using Bunny card Charm Offensive allows drawing cards while scoring points.

Transitioning from Citadels to Markets

• Start by building Citadels to accumulate warriors before transitioning into markets for resource generation.

Raiding Tactics

• Once secure, look for small raids using digging ability to surprise opponents and gain points without risking safety.

• Target weak spots in opponents' defenses (e.g., stockpiles or unprotected roosts).

Winning Conditions & Crafting Importance

• Swaying ministers alone won't lead to victory; focus on crafting opportunities for point accumulation.

Key Cards to Consider

• League of Adventurous Mice card allows extra moves or battles, enhancing gameplay strategy significantly.

Conclusion on Gameplay Strategy

Strategies for Playing as the Moles in Root

Key Actions and Strategies

• The combination of the Marshal, Captain, and Formal cards allows players to initiate battles, make moves, and place buildings in any clearing they control. This enhances strategic options during a turn.

• Utilizing the Brigadier's ability enables players to take up to two moves or initiate two battles. The Mayor can duplicate this ability, providing significant tactical advantages.

• The Moles can leverage their dig action for a potential dominance victory. While not always advisable, it can be a viable strategy if positioned strongly.

• A recommended approach is to build several structures while protecting two to three clearings with multiple buildings. This creates a solid defensive position.

• Players should focus on small raids for extra points and craft cards strategically, starting with cheaper ministers before progressing to more expensive ones. Duplicating powerful actions with the Mayor is crucial for maximizing effectiveness.

Conclusion and Engagement