Asteroid (1980) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Asteroid is a board game that was released in 1980 by Game Designers’ Workshop (GDW Games). It is a science fiction adventure wargame designed by Frank Chadwick and Marc W. Miller. The game is set in outer space, where players take on the roles of rival space miners competing to collect resources from asteroids. With its unique theme and gameplay mechanics, Asteroid has gained a cult following among board game enthusiasts over the years.

Game Components of Asteroid

Modular game board with asteroid tiles

Player ships

Resource tokens

Dice

Rulebook

How To Setup Asteroid

Place the modular game board in the center of the table.

Each player chooses a ship and places it on a starting space.

Shuffle the asteroid tiles and randomly place them on the board.

Place the resource tokens on their designated spaces.

Roll the dice to determine the starting player.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Asteroid, players take turns moving their ships around the board, collecting resources from asteroids, and sabotaging their opponents. The objective of the game is to be the first player to collect a set number of resources and return safely to base.

Player Experience

Pros:

Unique theme and setting in outer space

Strategic gameplay with elements of resource management and player interaction

Modular board adds replayability

Suitable for 2 players, making it a great option for dueling game nights

Cons:

Long runtime of 2-3 hours may not be suitable for casual gamers

Rules can be complex and may require some time to learn

Limited player interaction may not appeal to all gamers

Personal Thoughts on Asteroid

Asteroid is a classic board game that offers a unique and immersive experience for players who enjoy science fiction and wargames. The build quality of the components is solid, and the artwork by Paul Richard “Rich” Banner and other artists adds to the theme of the game. While the game may not be suitable for everyone due to its complexity and long runtime, it is definitely worth a try for fans of the genre.

In terms of pricing and availability, Asteroid can be found both used and new online. While the game may be on the pricier side due to its vintage status, it offers a nostalgic gaming experience that is hard to find in modern board games. For those looking for alternatives or similar games, titles like Twilight Imperium and Eclipse may scratch the same itch for space-themed wargames.

Overall, Asteroid is a game that is worth your time if you enjoy strategic gameplay and immersive storytelling. It is best suited for players who enjoy a challenge and are willing to invest the time to learn the rules. On the other hand, casual gamers or those looking for quick, light-hearted games may want to skip Asteroid in favor of simpler options.

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