Cerberus: The Proxima Centauri Campaign (1979) Board Game

Cerberus: The Proxima Centauri Campaign is a science fiction wargame released in 1979 by Task Force Games. Designed by Alvin Belflower and Allen D. Eldridge, this game allows players to engage in strategic warfare in the Proxima Centauri star system.

Game Components of Cerberus: The Proxima Centauri Campaign

Game board depicting the curved surface of a planet

Playing pieces representing human and Cetian forces

Special Forces units

Supply and support tokens

Rulebook

How To Setup Cerberus: The Proxima Centauri Campaign

To set up the game, players first lay out the game board, which uniquely depicts the entire curved surface of the planet. Each player then deploys their forces according to the initial deployment rules. Special Forces units, supplies, and support tokens are also placed as specified. The game is ready to start once both players have completed their setup.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Science fiction board wargame

Number of Players: 2

Game Mechanics: “I Go, You Go” alternating turns, area movement, and combat resolution

Objective: One player controls human forces, while the other controls Cetian forces. The goal is to conquer the planet by defeating the opposing forces.

Special Mechanics: Special Forces can disrupt spaceports, destroy supplies, and support ground troops.

Player Experience

**Cerberus: The Proxima Centauri Campaign** offers a strategic and operational gameplay experience. Players engage in a series of turns, moving and attacking in an alternating manner. The game’s scale allows for combat over the entire planet’s surface, providing a broad and complex battlefield. However, some reviewers have noted that the game’s pace can be slow, and strategies may become limited, often resulting in a draw.

Pros

Unique Planet Surface: The game board’s design allows for combat over the entire curved surface of the planet.

Strategic Depth: Players need to manage resources, supplies, and Special Forces effectively.

Replayability: The game is playable and re-playable, offering different outcomes based on strategy.

Cons

Slow Pace: The gameplay can be plodding, which may not appeal to players seeking fast-paced action.

Limited Strategies: With balanced forces and non-lethal combat, strategies can become repetitive and less exciting.

Draws: The game often ends in a draw due to the balanced victory conditions.

Personal Thoughts on Cerberus: The Proxima Centauri Campaign

**Cerberus: The Proxima Centauri Campaign** is for fans of strategic and operational wargames, particularly those interested in science fiction settings. While it may not be the best choice for players looking for quick, action-packed games, it offers a unique and challenging experience for those who enjoy planning and executing long-term strategies. Despite its age, the game remains a solid choice for those who appreciate the complexity and thematic depth of 1970s board game design.

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