My reviews are based upon my own experiences with the games in question and although I do state my opinions as fact they are purely anecdotal. The wonderful aspect of my review format is that people may respond and add alternative experiences in the specific points. I highly encourage this as my goal is to help people decide if this is the type of game that will drive them crazy-good or crazy-bad.

For a complete explanation of my ratings and the points: http://www.boardgamegeek.com/article/1658869#1658869



Random Factors: (Low - None) Depending on what version you play. We play with all cards face up on the table and when used each player simply removes them from the game. Random Factors = none.
Strategy: (Trace) If you play with a Master card there will be a perfunctory plan you might carry throughout the game.
Tactics: (Complete) This game is pure tactical joy. The fun comes from reacting to the changing board and taking actions that benefit you more than any other.
Tension: (Low) Some tough decisions but most of the time it is pretty clear what you need to do. Some angst on whether to use a card now or later. Lots of blocking but also lots of ways to overcome.
Brainburn: (High) Five action points each turn with lots of ways to spend them means lots of brain power going into optimization.
Analysis Paralysis: (High) Do not play this game with people who suffer from this or you will suffer for it.
Interaction: (High) Lots of blocking and even some alliances. You get in each other's way and try not to benefit anyone but yourself.
Confrontation: (Moderate) Other than the occasional block you usually spend your points to help you rather than hinder an opponent. Only when a move does both do you really make a "take-that" move.
Downtime: (Moderate) The game design lends itself to downtime since the board changes so much by time your turn comes around again. You have five action points you must allocate so others are waiting while you think it through.
Rules: (Moderate) Some vague spots. Thank goodness for BGG.
Components: (High) This game looks awesome on the table starting about midgame
Theme: (Trace) This is an abstract strategy game pure and simple.
Gateway Suitability: (Moderate) The game is easy and as long as you take it easy on the newbies they tend to like building the castles and getting into it. It is a Spiel de Jahres after all....
Spouse Suitability: (Moderate) She likes it.
Fun Factor: (High) Great if you like abstract strategy games.
Replayablity: (Moderate) Variable setups and master cards help to keep this one fresh but it mostly depends on whether you like abstract strategy games.
Setup Pain: (Low) This game is quick to setup. You will be spending action points within 5 minutes of opening the box.

2-players: Good. More chess-like and serious.
3 players: Good
4 players: Best. I like lots of players getting in each other's way.