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Atmosfear: The Harbingers (1995)

ByMichail

The Harbingers

“The Harbingers” is an Australian video board game designed by Brett Clements and Phillip Tanner, and published by Mattel as a major update to the Atmosfear series. The game was released in 1995 and became one of the top-ten best-selling games in the United States and the United Kingdom within months of its release. The game is set in a place known as “The Other Side” and revolves around the concept of collecting six different colored “Keystones” while facing various challenges and overcoming players’ worst fears.

Why is The Harbingers Popular?

The Harbingers is a popular game due to its unique combination of horror, comedy, and interactive gameplay. The game has a strong following and is considered a classic in the board game industry. It has been praised for its frantic and ridiculous nature, making it a favorite among players who enjoy a good laugh and a thrilling experience.

Game Components of Atmosfear: The Harbingers

  • VHS tape (or later DVD) acting as a game clock and host
  • Modular game board
  • Six different colored keystones
  • Duel decks
  • Harbinger playing pieces
  • Numb skull tokens
  • Fate cards
  • Central hub with a well of fears
  • Dice

    How To Setup Atmosfear: The Harbingers

    To set up the game, players first determine “The Chosen One” by rolling the dice. The Chosen One sets up the modular board, sorts and places the duel decks, keystones, and Harbinger pieces. Each player receives a numbered numb skull token and a corresponding slab to hold their character card and keystones. Players write down their biggest fear and place it in the well of fears. The game is ready to start once all components are in place and the VHS tape is playing.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Mechanic:** Dice rolling, item collection, countdown, and strategy.
  • Objective:** Collect six different colored keystones and return home to roll a six to “face your fear” and win the game.
  • Game Clock:** The VHS tape acts as a countdown, with the Gatekeeper interrupting to impose punishments or rewards.
  • Gatekeeper:** The host on the VHS tape who gives instructions and penalties during the game.
  • Penalties:**
    – Being banished to the black hole
    – Losing turns
    – Returning keys to the board
    – Dueling other players
    – Reading Fate cards

  • Winning Condition:** If no player wins within the 60-minute time limit, the Gatekeeper wins.

    Player Experience

    Atmosfear: The Harbingers is a frantic and tense game that combines humor with horror elements. The continuous interruptions by the Gatekeeper create a pressure cooker of tension and anxiety, making the game highly engaging and unpredictable. Players must navigate through the board, collecting keystones while avoiding the Gatekeeper’s penalties. The game is known for its cheesy B-movie style and is often praised for its unique blend of fear, anxiety, panic, and revenge.

    Pros

  • Unique use of VHS tape as a game mechanic
  • High level of tension and unpredictability
  • Engaging and frantic gameplay
  • Suitable for both adults and pre-teens
  • Modular board adds variety to each game

    Cons

  • Convoluted rules
  • Easy to memorize cues and order of play due to VHS usage
  • Some players may find the Gatekeeper’s interruptions too frequent or stressful

    Personal Thoughts on Atmosfear: The Harbingers

    Atmosfear: The Harbingers is ideal for those who enjoy horror-comedy and are looking for a game that combines strategy with unpredictable elements. It is best suited for groups of 5-6 players who can appreciate the chaotic and frantic nature of the game. This game is not for the faint of heart or those who prefer more straightforward, relaxed gaming experiences. However, for fans of unique and engaging board games, Atmosfear: The Harbingers is a must-play.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl