Integrate Lost Ruins of Arnak Twisted Paths with Base Game

By Czech Games Edition | Published: 2026-10-27

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to add the Twisted Paths expansion to your base Lost Ruins of Arnak game. Step-by-step setup, mixing components, and common pitfalls to avoid.

Quick Answer

To integrate the Twisted Paths expansion, replace the base game's map with the new double-sided map and choose one of the two new research tracks. Mix the new guardian, site, and assistant cards into their respective decks, and add the new components like dark tablets and temple tiles as instructed.

What Twisted Paths Adds to the Base Game

The Twisted Paths expansion introduces a larger double-sided map and two new research tracks, each with unique mechanics. One track uses brand new temple tiles, while the other introduces dark tablets as a new resource. These additions change the strategic landscape of the game without overhauling the core rules.

You also get new guardians, sites, and assistants to mix into the base game decks. The expansion includes solo content with Rival tiles for the new maps, plus Purple Rival tiles and Rival Objectives. This guide focuses on integrating the expansion with the base game for 1–4 players.

Common Integration Mistakes to Avoid

One common error is mixing both research tracks into the same game. The rules are clear: choose one track per game. Another pitfall is forgetting to remove the base game map and research board—you replace them entirely, not combine them.

Also, pay attention to the new components. The dark tablets and temple tiles are specific to one research track. Using them with the wrong track can confuse the game flow. Finally, when shuffling new cards into the decks, ensure you include all base game cards unless the expansion rules say otherwise.

Step-by-Step Integration Guide

Replace the Base Game Map: Remove the base game map from the play area. Place the new double-sided map from Twisted Paths in its spot. Choose which side to use for the current game. Both sides offer different layouts and guardian positions. Check that the new map fits on your table; it is larger than the original.
Choose One Research Track: Select one of the two new research tracks from the expansion. Remove the base game research board entirely. Place the chosen track in the center of the map. Each track has its own unique components—temple tiles or dark tablets—so have those ready. Do not mix both tracks; pick one per game to avoid rule conflicts.
Mix New Cards into Decks: Shuffle the new guardian, site, and assistant cards from Twisted Paths into their respective base game decks. Keep all original cards unless the expansion rules specify otherwise. The new cards add variety without unbalancing the game. Ensure you shuffle thoroughly so new cards are evenly distributed.
Set Up Solo Content (If Playing Solo): If playing solo, use the new Rival tiles designed for the Twisted Paths maps. Also include the Purple Rival tiles and Rival Objectives from the expansion. Follow the solo rules from the base game, but use the new tiles and objectives as instructed. The Purple Rival tiles add a new challenge; review their effects before starting.
Review the New Rules Reference: Before playing, read the Twisted Paths rulebook to understand any new iconography or special actions tied to your chosen research track. Pay attention to how dark tablets or temple tiles are acquired and used. Keep the rulebook handy for the first few games to clarify new mechanics.

Product Facts

Lost Ruins of Arnak: Twisted Paths: This expansion brings a new double-sided map bigger than the one in the base game and includes two new research tracks, each with unique mechanisms and components (like brand new temple tiles or new resources—dark tablets). The larger map and alternative research tracks add significant replayability and strategic depth without changing the core rules, making it easy to integrate for experienced players.
Lost Ruins of Arnak: Twisted Paths