To mods: if this should be in daily rec, apologies. Figured it was big enough a topic to warrant seperate post.
So we have a dedicated group to play boardgames and we hit 6 people comitted for 4-6 hours regularly enough to have game of thrones come to the table rather often (Yes, this is awesome).
Couple of the player also have lots of online experience. Maybe 30-40 games GoT with the group and way more online.
Last couple of plays it feels like we have outplayed the meta and possibilities of the game. What I mean:
Everybody knows best opening plays and early/midgame tactics. If people try to deviate from it for fun it shows because they will get pounded. People hitting 7 has become basically non-existant because the table will not let it happen. People know when to quit alliances to prevent runaway win by ally.
We have a lot of fun for all the in-game jokes over what the mistakes were in the past but no big mistakes are made.
This results in a game that rewards defensive decisions because first mover with a big attack will probably lose. Winner will be the one who moves latest. This basically results in rounds of maneuvring and not a lot of action unless someone tries something for giggles.
I think it is a little bit in the dna of the game, but with the current state of the group, reactive and defensive play is rewarded over proactive and offensive play.
And recs to spice up the game or alternatives?