Review: GODZILLA: TOKYO CLASH is a Fun Kaiju Battle Game

Godzilla: Tokyo Clash is a game from Funko Games that I’ve had the pleasure of trying out. Funko Games was kind enough to send me a copy to review and I’ve been able to play it a couple of times. I’ve learned some key things as I play and I’m here to share my thoughts. If you’re looking for the TLDR, Tokyo Clash is more fun with more people.

The game is fun and definitely delivers on the promise of being big bad kaiju stomping around Tokyo doing battle. You can play as Godzilla, Mothra, King Ghidora, or Megalon and each one plays differently. The monsters aren’t the only things that players need to pay attention to. Each game, there will also be two events that can introduce things like tanks, UFOs, fighter jets, trains, and more into the battle.

Players have a few options of things to do on each of their turns. This includes playing cards to attack or move (some cards are for defense, too) or discarding cards for some additional actions. This discard action is actually a huge plus for the game as it helps you not feel so stuck in what you can do on your turn. Typically, discarding lets you attack or move. When you attack, you can either attack a monster, or throw a monster or vehicle. Each one has its advantages and uses. Typically, throwing will let you destroy buildings to give you additional benefits such as additional energy so you can use more of your cards. However, throwing also deals less damage.

Damage in Tokyo Clash is very interesting. Instead of having a health meter, when damage is dealt, players will lose cards from their deck. This has a lasting impact on the game as this may take out some very powerful cards that your opponent would otherwise unleash on you. At the very least, it can lower the chances of your opponent getting some key cards. After all, there are some cards that cannot be taken as trophies (the damage dealt) and are instead simply sent to the discard pile. This unique system is actually really cool and really well done.

Another bonus for Tokyo Clash is the miniatures included. The four minis look great overall and really help the game come alive.

So, what do I not like about Tokyo Clash? I played a 2-player game and I’m not sure if it was the game or simply the events we played with, but it wasn’t that fun. Yes, it was doable, but it felt lackluster. When I played with more people, the game instantly felt more fun. Now, on the topic of events, I will say that the game itself recommends two specific ones for you to use on your first game. I’m here to say, don’t, especially in a 2-player game. If you’re wanting more kaiju vs kaiju action, I would recommend using Xilien Invasion instead of Armored Assault. Rush Hour isn’t too bad, but I really enjoyed Lightning Generators.

Overall, the game is pretty straightforward (although it can seem like a lot at first). The rules are a little unclear about blocking throw damage, but they seem to indicate that you can block any damage not labeled as unblockable. Also, I’m not sure how balanced all the characters are. I’m not sure if it was an imbalance or luck that as Mothra I destroyed Godzilla and King Ghidora by about 13 points.

My final complaint is that on the box, it never states how long to expect a game to take. On the rulebook, it does state 45 minutes. I just wish that information had been put on the box.

Tokyo Clash can be a lot of fun to play and if you enjoy kaiju, it’s worth looking into. It’s not a game for everyone, but everyone I played with enjoyed it.