Survival / The Barbarian (1979)

Survival / The Barbarian

“Survival / The Barbarian” is a board game created by Task Force Games, released in 1979. The game is set in a fantasy world and revolves around the quest of Vaarn the Barbarian to locate and recover the lost sword and shield of the Old Kingdom. The game is popular and significant due to its unique theme and engaging gameplay.

Game Components of Survival / The Barbarian

Rulebook: 8.5″ x 5.5″ 12-page rulebook with full-color cover.

Counters: 108 multicolored die-cut counters.

Maps: Two 11″ x 17″ maps, one for each game.

Information Sheet: Included for additional game details.

Packaging: All components packaged in a ziplock bag.

How To Setup Survival / The Barbarian

To set up the game, players need to choose which of the two games they want to play: **Survival** or **The Barbarian**. For **Survival**, each player equips their character with weapons and prepares to navigate a hostile alien landscape. For **The Barbarian**, one player takes on the role of Vaam the Barbarian, while the other controls the random monsters. The maps and counters are laid out according to the specific game’s rules, and players refer to the rulebook for detailed setup instructions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Survival

Game Category: Science fiction combat game.

Objective: The player must navigate a crashed scout spaceship pilot across an alien planet to reach a survival station.

Mechanics: Hex-and-Counter.

Combat: Resolved using a single 6-sided die plus combat bonuses to equal or exceed the target’s defense strength.

Players: 1-6 players.

Duration: 15 to 45 minutes.

The Barbarian

Game Category: Fantasy quest game.

Objective: Vaam the Barbarian must locate and recover his grandfather’s lost sword and shield.

Mechanics: Hex-and-Counter.

Combat: Resolved using two dice rolls.

Players: 1-2 players.

Duration: 15 to 45 minutes.

Player Experience

**Survival / The Barbarian** offers a straightforward and quick gaming experience. The simplicity of the rules makes it accessible to new gamers, but it may lack the strategic depth that more experienced gamers seek. The games are designed for quick play, with each game lasting between 15 to 45 minutes. The solitaire option in both games adds versatility, but the gameplay is largely centered around dice rolls against random monsters, which can become repetitive.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it easy for new gamers to jump in.

Quick Gameplay: Games are relatively short, lasting 15 to 45 minutes.

Solitaire Option: Both games can be played solo, adding to their versatility.

Portable: Packaged in a ziplock bag, making it easy to carry around.

Cons

Limited Strategy: Gameplay is largely based on dice rolls with minimal strategic decisions.

Clichéd Plots: The scenarios are criticized for being too clichéd and lacking originality.

Repetitive Combat: Combat mechanics, though simple, can become repetitive and lack challenge for experienced gamers.

Personal Thoughts on Survival / The Barbarian

**Survival / The Barbarian** is ideal for beginning gamers or those looking for a quick, light gaming experience. It is not suited for gamers seeking complex strategies or deep gameplay mechanics. The games’ simplicity and short playtime make them a good fit for casual gamers or those new to the world of board games. However, experienced gamers might find the games too simplistic and lacking in challenge.

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