Comic book cover of "ROGUE TROOPER" featuring a futuristic soldier running towards the viewer with a rifle in hand, wearing a helmet with goggles and a backpack with antenna, set against a foggy battlefield background with skeletal remains and the tagline "AVENGE THE QUARTZ ZONE MASSACRE" at the bottom.
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Rogue Trooper (1987)

ByMichail

Rogue Trooper

“Rogue Trooper” is a British board wargame based on the 2000 AD comic strip of the same name, which was created by Gerry Finley-Day and Dave Gibbons in 1981. The comic strip is set in the year 2020 and follows the story of a Genetic Infantryman, one of the last survivors of the infamous Quartz Zone Massacre. The board game was released in 1987 by Games Workshop.

Why is Rogue Trooper Popular?

The game is popular due to its connection to the well-known comic strip and its unique theme. The comic strip has a rich history and has inspired various spin-offs, including novels, video games, and other board games. The board game itself is a wargame, which adds to its appeal for strategy enthusiasts.

Game Components of Rogue Trooper

  • Board: A hex map representing different parts of Nu-Earth.
  • Miniatures: Plastic miniatures to represent the Genetic Infantrymen (GIs).
  • Card System: Cards for revealing encounters and clues.
  • Dice: Used for resolving combat and other challenges.
  • Clue Cards: Collected to uncover the identity of the traitor.
  • Mission Cards: Define various missions players must complete.
  • Items, Weapons, and Resources: Aid players in overcoming encounters.

    How To Setup Rogue Trooper

    To set up the game, players start by placing the board, which is divided into hex areas representing Nu-Earth. Each player selects a Rogue Trooper miniature and places it on the board. The card system, including Clue and Mission cards, is shuffled and prepared for play. Players are given their starting items, weapons, and resources. The objective is clearly defined: each player must hunt down the traitor who betrayed their regiment.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Player Control: Each player controls a Rogue Trooper.
  • Mission Completion: Players complete missions to gather Clue cards.
  • Encounter Resolution: Dice rolls determine the outcomes of encounters, aided by items and resources.
  • Traitior Hunt: The first player to collect all necessary Clue cards must then hunt down and kill the traitor to win.
  • Multiplayer Interaction: Players are engaged throughout the game, competing to be the first to uncover and eliminate the traitor.

    Player Experience

    Playing Rogue Trooper feels like an immersive trek across the devastated planet of Nu-Earth. Players are constantly engaged in exploring the hex map, resolving encounters through dice rolls, and managing their resources. The game requires strategic thinking and a bit of luck, as the randomness of dice rolls and card draws adds an element of unpredictability. The competitive nature of the game keeps players on edge until the very end, when the traitor is finally revealed and hunted down.

    Pros

  • Engaging Storyline: Based on a popular 2000 AD comic strip, adding a rich narrative background.
  • Interactive Gameplay: Players are involved throughout, with a mix of strategy and luck.
  • Solo Play Option: Official rules allow for solo play, which is a bonus for those who enjoy playing alone.
  • Historical Significance: A classic game from the 1980s, offering a nostalgic experience.

    Cons

  • Randomness: The game relies heavily on dice rolls and card draws, which can lead to unpredictable outcomes.
  • Complex Setup: Setting up the game can be time-consuming due to the various components.
  • Limited Replayability: Once the traitor is revealed, the game’s replay value might diminish.

    Personal Thoughts on Rogue Trooper

    Rogue Trooper is ideal for fans of science fiction and wargames, particularly those familiar with the 2000 AD comic universe. It offers a unique blend of strategy and luck, making it a compelling choice for both casual and experienced gamers. However, due to its age and reliance on randomness, it may not appeal to everyone, especially those seeking more modern and streamlined gaming experiences. Despite this, it remains a classic and enjoyable game for those who appreciate its nostalgic charm and gritty sci-fi setting.

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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