Invasion: Earth (1981) – Board Game Guys

Brief History and Background Information of Invasion Earth

Invasion: Earth is a board wargame published by Game Designers’ Workshop (GDW) in 1981. It is set in the Traveller RPG universe and depicts the invasion of Earth. The game was republished in 2004 as part of Far Future Enterprises Traveller: The Classic Games, Games 1-6+. Invasion: Earth is the sixth Traveller boardgame published by GDW, and the first one released in a bookshelf box. The game has an original background story and good atmosphere.

Why is Invasion Earth Popular?

Invasion: Earth is a well-balanced game that requires attention to strategy and tactics on both players’ parts. It has been recommended to all Traveller enthusiasts as well as those who have enjoyed GDW’s other fine SF games. The game mechanics are appropriate and well-considered.

Game Components of Invasion Earth

– Game board
– Rulebook
– Counters
– Dice

Game Setup of Invasion Earth

Players set up the game board and place counters according to the rules outlined in the rulebook.

Gameplay Mechanics of Invasion Earth

Invasion: Earth is a two-player SF board game that feels realistic. The game mechanics are appropriate and well-considered. The situation is tense, requiring some attention to strategy and tactics on both players’ parts.

Game Objective of Invasion Earth

The objective of the game is for the Terrans to defend Earth from the invading aliens.

Player Experience

Invasion: Earth is an interesting and well-balanced game that requires attention to strategy and tactics on both players’ parts. The game mechanics are appropriate and well-considered.

Buy Online

Invasion: Earth is an out-of-print game, but it may be available for purchase from online retailers or second-hand sellers.

Conclusion

Invasion: Earth is a well-balanced board wargame that requires attention to strategy and tactics on both players’ parts. It is set in the Traveller RPG universe and depicts the invasion of Earth. The game has an original background story and good atmosphere. Although it is out of print, it may be available for purchase from online retailers or second-hand sellers.

Game Components of Invasion: Earth

Map: A small 16″x21″ map covering Sol and holding boxes for different space locations, along with a terrain key.

Counters: 480 counters, with half being game markers and the other 240 being actual combatants. The counters are small, 1/2″ sized.

Rule Book: A 16-page rule book.

Dice: Originally included a pair of 6-sided dice, though some versions may be missing these.

Other Components: Imperial troop display chart, troop replacement charts, turn record chart, and various combat tables (space combat table, bombardment table, etc.).

How To Setup Invasion: Earth

Setting up **Invasion: Earth** involves several steps:

The Imperial player starts in the *Out-System Box* and must ‘jump’ into the Sol System, while the Solomani player sets up in *Far Orbit* or *Close Orbit*.

Units are placed according to specific rules, with Imperial forces distributed to prepare for space battles and ground invasions. Defending forces are placed in urban hexes across different continents.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Board wargame, specifically a space and ground combat game.

Gameplay Phases:

Phase I – Space Battle: Players engage in space combat to secure orbits around Earth.

Phase II – Consolidation: Players consolidate their positions and prepare for ground combat.

Phase III – Invasion: Ground combat ensues as the Imperial player attempts to invade Earth while the Solomani player defends.

Objective: The Imperial player must successfully invade and occupy Earth, while the Solomani player must defend Earth and prevent the invasion.

Player Experience

**Invasion: Earth** is described as a game that feels realistic but can be laborious at times. Players must make strategic decisions in both space and ground combat, managing resources and units carefully. The game is praised for its well-balanced mechanics and the tense situation it creates, requiring attention to strategy and tactics from both players.

Pros

Realistic Gameplay: The game mechanics are well-considered and realistic, especially in the context of amphibious warfare.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and strategic decision-making in both space and ground combat.

Integration with Traveller RPG: Can be used in connection with the Traveller role-playing game system.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be complex and time-consuming, with some phases dragging on.

Small Components: The counters are small and can be challenging to handle, especially for those with poor eyesight.

Personal Thoughts on Invasion: Earth

**Invasion: Earth** is ideal for fans of the Traveller universe and those who enjoy strategic wargames. It offers a rich and realistic gaming experience, particularly for those interested in space and ground combat scenarios. However, due to its complexity and the small size of its components, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for a quick, light-hearted experience. This game is best suited for dedicated wargamers and fans of the sci-fi genre.

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