I really really want to like AToE

[MoonSylver]

It's hard to say what the issue is, but my gut is telling me there's something being missed, as there shouldn't be any way to win so easily every single time. I've never seen it happen. Only things I can think of off the top:

Are you advancing the Shadow Track each time an elder dies?

Are you taking a Mystery phase at the end of EACH hero turn?

In a Showdown, are you fighting in a series of turns? (ie each Hero fights the Villain seperately, around the board, each turn).

Are you advancing the Shadow Track when you are to place Minions that you are out of?

Applying the penalty for KO's? (loss of Ivestigation, Items, Allies, etc)

Using the Co-Op Mystery Phase Chart?

Using the Co-Op side of the Shadow Track? (The one w/ the boosts to Villain Health & Combat as it progresses).

Adding "Dead" EVIL Elders to the Villain?

You already said you've started making Heroes roll for Investigation. That's a huge step in the right direction. Otherwise it is too easy to buff them up. They should have to work for that Investigation.

Honestly, I can't say I've ever heard anyone say the game is too easy. An average session for me is a tense race for the end, with the Shadow Track humming along & never enough time/opportunity to gather as much Investigation as I want, but maybe just enough to get the job done. Occasional blow outs BOTH ways, but nothing like you're describing...
---MS