How many players does Root support?

Root plays 2 to 4 players out of the box. The Riverfolk expansion raises that to 6.

How long does a game of Root take?

The box lists 60 to 90 minutes. First games with new players usually run longer while everyone learns their faction.

Is Root hard to learn?

The core rules are moderate, but each faction has its own rules, so the teach is heavier than most area-control games. Teaching one faction at a time helps.

The base game includes the four core factions, the woodland map, faction boards, cards and wooden pieces. Expansions add factions and a second map.

Is Root good with two players?

It works at two, but the experience is more tense and less political than with three or four. Many owners prefer three or four.

Does Root need expansions?

No. The base game is complete, and expansions mainly add factions and variety for groups that already play often.

Where is the Root cheapest?

At Amazon, for $34.50, 42% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

What do buyers say about the Root?

Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 87 ratings.

Where can I buy the Root?

22 stores we checked sell it, including Leder Games, 401 Games, Zatu Games, Pandemonium Books and Games, Third Eye Comics.

Root

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$34.50at AmazonChecked 1 h ago

42% under what the other stores charge

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Price facts

Lowest price today: $34.50 at Amazon (checked Nov 12, 2026).

What reviewers say

4.8 / 587 ratings

Owners rate it very highly and praise the asymmetric factions and the tension of the woodland war. Common complaints are the steep learning curve and long play time, especially with new players.

What people mention

AsymmetryPraisedReviewers say each faction plays so differently that the game feels fresh each time.
Learning curveCriticisedOwners say the first game is a heavy teach and new players struggle with their faction's rules.
Play timeMixedMany say games run 60 to 90 minutes as billed, but first games and four-player games stretch longer.
ReplayabilityPraisedReviewers praise how mixing factions changes the game and keeps it coming back to the table.
BalanceMixedSome owners feel certain factions are stronger or swingier depending on the group.

About the Root

Root is a game of adventure and war for 2 to 4 players. It supports 6 players with the Riverfolk expansion. Players battle for control of a vast wilderness.

Each player has unique capabilities and a different victory condition. The game uses multi-use cards. The Marquise de Cat has seized the woodland, the Eyrie want to reclaim it, the Alliance works in the shadows against the Cats, and the Vagabond plays all sides while hiding a quest.

The Cats play an engine-building and logistics game. They collect Wood to produce workshops, lumber mills and barracks, and they win by building new buildings and crafts. The Eyrie muster their hawks to capture territory and build roosts before they collapse back into squabbling. The Alliance recruits forces and hatches conspiracies. It starts slowly and builds toward a strong late game if it can keep the other players in check. The Vagabond explores the board, fights other factions and works toward a hidden goal.

Players

2-4 (up to 6 with the Riverfolk expansion)

Playing time

60-90 minutes

Recommended age

13+

Factions

Marquise de Cat, Eyrie, Alliance, Vagabond

Game type

Asymmetric design, with a different role and victory condition for each player

Publisher

Leder Games