Cover of "Invasion of the Air-Eaters" MicroGame 12 showing a vintage sci-fi illustration of giant octopus-like creature attacking a city, with terrified people in the foreground and a price of $2.95 at the bottom.
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Invasion of the Air-eaters (1979)

ByMichail

Invasion of the Air-eaters

Invasion of the Air-eaters is a science fiction near-future board wargame published by Metagaming Concepts in 1979. The game depicts an alien invasion of Earth on a global scale. The game is set in the near future, where aliens invade Earth and attempt to steal the planet’s air. The game is a microgame, meaning it is a small, inexpensive game that is easy to learn and quick to play.

Why is Invasion of the Air-eaters Popular?

Invasion of the Air-eaters is a significant game because it was one of the first microgames ever published. It was also one of the first games to use a hexagonal grid system for movement and combat. The game is popular among board game enthusiasts who enjoy science fiction and wargames.

Game Components of Invasion of the Air-eaters

  • Game board
  • Hex-and-counter units
  • Rulebook
  • Player markers
  • Dice (if applicable, though not explicitly mentioned)
  • Any additional materials specific to the game’s mechanics

    How To Setup Invasion of the Air-eaters

    To set up the game, players first need to assemble the game board, which is typically divided into hexagonal spaces. Each player selects their units and places them on the designated starting positions on the board. The rulebook provides detailed instructions on the initial deployment of forces and any specific setup requirements.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Mechanics: Hex-and-counter, which involves strategic movement and combat on a hexagonal grid.
  • Objective: The primary goal is to defeat the alien invasion or, from the alien perspective, to successfully invade and conquer the planet.
  • _player interaction_: Players take turns moving and engaging their units in combat, using the hex-and-counter system to resolve battles and achieve their objectives.

    Player Experience

    **Invasion of the Air-eaters** offers a classic wargaming experience with a science fiction twist. Players must strategize and manage their forces carefully to outmaneuver their opponents. The game’s hex-and-counter mechanics provide a detailed and tactical gameplay experience, appealing to fans of strategic board games.

    Pros

  • Tactical Depth: The hex-and-counter system allows for complex and strategic gameplay.
  • Theme: The science fiction setting adds an engaging and imaginative layer to the game.
  • Replayability: With multiple players and varied unit compositions, the game offers a high degree of replayability.
  • Historical Significance: As a game from 1979, it provides a nostalgic experience for vintage game enthusiasts.

    Cons

  • Complexity: The game may be too complex for casual players due to its detailed rules and mechanics.
  • Components: The hex-and-counter system can be cumbersome to manage, especially for those unfamiliar with it.
  • Player Count: Limited to 1-3 players, which might be restrictive for larger gaming groups.

    Personal Thoughts on Invasion of the Air-eaters

    **Invasion of the Air-eaters** is best suited for fans of science fiction and tactical wargames. It is an excellent choice for those who enjoy strategic gameplay and are looking for a game with depth and replayability. While it may not be ideal for casual or new gamers due to its complexity, it remains a compelling option for experienced players seeking a challenging and immersive experience.

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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