Board game cover with the title "ESCAPE FROM ATLANTIS" in stylized text above an illustration of hands reaching out from beneath a grid resembling a net, surrounded by foliage, with the subtitle "TASK FORCE GAME" below.
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Escape from Altassar (1982)

ByMichail

Escape from Altassar

“Escape from Altassar” is a board game published by Task Force Games in 1982 that simulates an attempted escape by human prisoners from an alien penal colony.

Why is Escape from Altassar Popular?

The game is popular due to its unique theme and mechanics that involve players taking on the roles of prisoners and guards in a futuristic setting. The concept of escaping from a confined space has been a popular subject in various forms of entertainment, including video games and real-life escape rooms.

Game Components of Escape from Altassar

  • Game board representing the alien penal colony
  • Prisoner and Spikus soldier game pieces
  • Pursuit and escape route markers
  • Rulebook

    How To Setup Escape from Altassar

    To set up the game, players first place the game board in the middle of the playing area. The prisoner pieces are positioned within the penal colony, while the Spikus soldier pieces are placed at the perimeter. Each player chooses their role, either as prisoners attempting to escape or as Spikus soldiers trying to capture them. The rulebook provides detailed instructions on initial placements and starting conditions.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Category: Strategy, Escape
  • Game Mechanics: Area Control, Pursuit/Evasion
  • Objective: For prisoners, the goal is to escape the penal colony without being caught. For Spikus soldiers, the objective is to capture all the prisoners before they escape.
  • Number of Players: Typically 2-4

    Player Experience

    Playing **Escape from Altassar** involves a mix of strategy and luck. Prisoners must navigate through the colony, avoiding detection by the Spikus soldiers, while the soldiers must use their resources efficiently to track and capture the prisoners. The game requires players to think ahead and make tactical decisions quickly.

    Pros

  • Engaging Theme: The sci-fi setting of an alien penal colony adds a unique twist to the traditional escape game.
  • Simple to Learn: The rules are straightforward, making it easy for new players to join.
  • High Replayability: Different starting positions and player strategies ensure each game is different.

    Cons

  • Limited Complexity: The game mechanics, while engaging, may be too simple for experienced gamers.
  • Outdated Components: The game, being from 1982, may have older-style components that could be less appealing to modern gamers.

    Personal Thoughts on Escape from Altassar

    **Escape from Altassar** is ideal for those who enjoy light strategy games with a sci-fi theme. It is a great introduction to board games for new players due to its simple rules and engaging gameplay. However, seasoned gamers might find it lacking in complexity and depth. The game’s unique setting and easy-to-learn mechanics make it a fun and quick game night addition.

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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