Bug-Eyed Monsters (1983) – Board Game Guys

Bug-Eyed Monsters

“Bug-Eyed Monsters” is a science fiction board game published by West End Games in 1983. The game takes place in 1951 and involves alien invaders, either kidnapping women or targeting presidential hopeful Dwight Eisenhower. The game was designed by Greg Costikyan, who is known for his other board game creations.

Why is Bug-Eyed Monsters Popular?

The game is popular due to its science fiction theme and its use of bug-eyed monsters, which were a common convention in the genre during the 1930s. The game has received positive reviews for its quality rules, counters, and mapboard. Additionally, the game has been featured on various platforms, such as BoardGameGeek and Art of the Genre.

Game Components of Bug-Eyed Monsters

23’x17′ color map

Die-cut counters

8-page rulebook

Two six-sided dice.

How To Setup Bug-Eyed Monsters

To set up the game, players need to lay out the 23’x17′ color map, which represents the setting for the scenarios. The die-cut counters are then placed according to the specific scenario being played. The rulebook provides detailed instructions on how to set up each scenario, including the placement of human and alien counters. One scenario involves aliens capturing women in Freedom, New Hampshire, while the other involves an attempt to kidnap President-elect Eisenhower.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Dice Rolling: Used to resolve combat and other actions.

Hexagon Grid: The map is divided into hexagons to facilitate movement.

Movement Points: Determine how far units can move.

Scenario/Mission/Campaign Game: The game includes two distinct scenarios set in 1951.

Simulation: Simulates battles and interactions between humans and aliens.

Game Objective: For the human player, the goal is to defend against the alien invasion and protect key targets. For the alien player, the objective is to capture women or kidnap President-elect Eisenhower.

Player Experience

Bug-Eyed Monsters offers a unique blend of strategy and thematic fun, particularly for fans of 1950s science fiction movies. The game’s scenarios are designed to evoke the B-movie era, with aliens attempting to abduct women or a prominent political figure. Players must manage their units’ abilities and resources carefully to succeed. The game also works well as a solitaire experience, making it versatile for different types of players.

Pros

Thematic Fun: Captures the essence of 1950s science fiction movies.

Solitaire Option: Can be enjoyed by a single player.

Detailed Components: Includes a large color map and detailed counters.

Varied Scenarios: Offers two distinct scenarios to play through.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed only for 2 players.

Complexity: May be too complex for some casual players due to the detailed rules and scenarios.

Outdated Theme: The theme, while nostalgic, may not appeal to all modern players.

Personal Thoughts on Bug-Eyed Monsters

Bug-Eyed Monsters is ideal for fans of science fiction, particularly those who enjoy the retro aesthetic of 1950s B-movies. It is also suited for players who like strategy and wargames, as it requires careful planning and execution. However, due to its complexity and limited player count, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for a multiplayer experience. Despite this, the game remains a charming and challenging addition to any board game collection, especially for those who appreciate its unique theme and mechanical depth.

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