Resist! is a solo or cooperative card game designed by Trevor Benjamin, Roger Tankersley, and David Thompson. You lead the Maquis—Spanish resistance fighters opposing Franco’s regime after the civil war.
Mechanisms Meet Theme
At its core, Resist! is about sacrifice and survival. Your deck is made up of hidden operatives. Reveal them for powerful effects, and they’re gone for good. Keep them hidden, and you keep them in the fight—but maybe not for long. It’s a constant push and pull, and each move matters.
Though a deck builder, here your deck erodes over time. Using a Maquis member’s revealed power means they’re permanently removed from your deck. Spies will bloat your deck. It’s not a game about building up, but about holding on just long enough to do what needs to be done.
After drawing your hand of republican fighters you can use their Planning actions to affect the battle. Then you choose your Mission accordingly from a row of options. Upon choosing, flip the garrison enemies face up and see what you’re really up against:engineers, counter-guerillas, spymasters, guards etc.
I love when theme is well tied to the mechanisms. The train heist, for example, prevents you from adding new Maquis once the mission has started. Failing to topple Franco’s stronghold leads to the execution of civilians (lose five and it’s game over). Saving the farm gives you precious new recruits.
Don’t Stop Believin
Though difficult, that’s what makes it great. Just like The Lost Expedition, it punishes careless decisions but rewards thoughtful play. There is a way. Sometimes narrow, sometimes costly, but it’s there. Take your time and eventually you soften the oppressors until they topple.
Art and Atmosphere
The subdued tones and great character design make each card revealed a treat. It’s clean, clear, and adds lots of personality without getting in the way of the puzzle.
Never Surrender
It’s impressive how much game there is in such a small box and few cards. Turns feel tight and deliberate, with real weight behind the decisions. Taking your time with it will yield rewards; Resist! delivers what it sets out to do.