Annihilator / OneWorld (1980)

Annihilator & One World

“Annihilator & One World” is a board game that combines two classic Avalon Hill games: One World and Annihilator. One World was originally released in 1974 and was designed by Peter Olotka. Annihilator, on the other hand, was released in 1978 and was designed by Peter Olotka and Greg Costikyan. The game combines the exploration and resource management elements of One World with the combat and elimination mechanics of Annihilator.

Why is Annihilator & One World Popular?

The game is popular and significant because it combines two classic board game experiences into one exciting and engaging experience. It offers players the opportunity to explore and manage resources in One World while also testing their skills in combat and elimination in Annihilator. This combination of gameplay elements makes “Annihilator & One World” a unique and enjoyable experience for board game enthusiasts.

Game Components of Annihilator / OneWorld

8.5″ x 14″ **OneWorld** map (brown on green)

12″ x 14″ **Annihilator** map (black on blue)

24-page rulebook

133 cardstock counters

Errata sheet for **Annihilator** in the second edition

How To Setup Annihilator / OneWorld

Setting up **Annihilator / OneWorld** involves unpacking the components from the ziplock bag. For **Annihilator**, players need to place the map and distribute the counters representing the planet-killing machine’s defenses and the Pan-Human Alliance’s assault squads. For **OneWorld**, the fantasy map is laid out, and the counters for the gods’ children (Fog, Blade, and Stone) are distributed. Each game has a simple setup process outlined in the rulebook.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Annihilator

Objective: One player controls the Pan-Human Alliance’s assault squads and demolition teams aiming to destroy the Annihilator’s brain core, while the other player controls the machine’s robots and defenses.

Gameplay Mechanics: Hex-and-Counter system with asymmetric forces.

Key Elements: Security robots, repair bots, automatic defenses, and demolition charges.

OneWorld

Objective: Players take the roles of opposing gods (Chez and Borg) and send their children (Fog, Blade, and Stone) to attack each other, with the goal of destroying the rival god.

Gameplay Mechanics: Diceless combat system similar to “rock, paper, scissors.”

Key Elements: Unique combat interactions between different types of godly children.

Player Experience

The player experience varies significantly between the two games. **Annihilator** offers a more traditional science fiction wargame experience with a focus on tactical maneuvers and asymmetric forces, though it has been criticized for its simplicity and lack of depth. **OneWorld**, on the other hand, is a lighter, more humorous game with a unique combat system, but it has also received criticism for being too simple and unbalanced.

Pros

Variety: Two distinct games in one package offer different themes and gameplay experiences.

Accessibility: Simple rules make both games easy to learn and play.

Novelty: Unique settings and mechanics, especially the “rock, paper, scissors” style combat in **OneWorld**.

Cons

Simplicity: Both games have been criticized for lacking depth and complexity.

Balance Issues: **OneWorld** has issues with counter balance, and **Annihilator** has problematic rules around victory conditions and demolition charges.

Limited Replayability: The games are relatively short and may not offer much replay value.

Personal Thoughts on Annihilator / OneWorld

**Annihilator / OneWorld** is best suited for those looking for quick, introductory wargames or for fans of the MicroGames series. While neither game excels in complexity or depth, they provide a fun, light-hearted gaming experience. **Annihilator** might appeal to science fiction enthusiasts and those interested in tactical wargames, while **OneWorld** is more suited to players looking for a humorous and easy-to-play fantasy game. However, serious gamers may find these games too simplistic and lacking in substance.

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