The Walking Dead: All Out War is a board game based on the popular comic book series created by Robert Kirkman. The game was released in 2016 and designed by Mark Latham, featuring artwork by Charlie Adlard. It is published by 2Tomatoes Games and falls under the categories of Comic Book, Miniatures, and Zombies.
Game Components of The Walking Dead: All Out War
Miniatures: Includes survivor and walker miniatures, with the core set featuring six survivor minis (e.g., Rick and Carl) and 12 walker minis.Cards: Character cards, Event Cards, and other game-specific cards. Character cards are US postcard-sized and feature artwork from the comics.Rulebook: A comic-book sized, full-color rulebook.Dice: Dice for resolving combat and other actions, including dice with a critical hit (”) symbol.Templates and Tokens: Circular Kill Zone template, Threat counter, and supply tokens.Terrain: Cardboard cars and barricades included in the core box, with optional 3D scenery expansions available.
How To Setup The Walking Dead: All Out War
To set up the game, players begin by deploying their survivor models on the gaming mat, which is included in the core box. The walkers are placed randomly on the board or as indicated by scenario rules. Each player selects their character cards and equips their survivors with items and weapons. The Event Card deck is shuffled and placed within reach. The Threat counter is set to zero, and players determine the initiative order. The game mat or a larger surface with additional scenery can be used to create a more immersive environment.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Threat Mechanic: The game uses a Threat level system, where noise, melee, and Event Cards increase the difficulty as the game progresses. When the Threat counter reaches 18, the game ends.Survivor Activation: Before each survivor activates, players check the Threat level to see if it exceeds the survivor’s nerve rating, necessitating a Panic check.Kill Zone Check: Players check if any survivors are in the Kill Zone of walkers, moving walkers into contact for melee if necessary.Event Phase: Players draw Event Cards, which can move walkers, add to the Threat level, or introduce new walkers to the board.Melee Combat: Survivors engage in melee combat simultaneously, rolling dice to determine outcomes. Critical hits (”) are required to kill walkers, while other hits knock them prone.Game Objective: Victory is typically achieved by collecting the most supply counters or eliminating the opposing group of survivors. Custom missions and scenarios can also be created.
Player Experience
Playing The Walking Dead: All Out War is an immersive and dynamic experience, especially with the unpredictable nature of the walkers and Event Cards. The game requires strategic planning and adaptability, as players must manage the Threat level and make tactical decisions to survive. The addition of 3D scenery and expansions can enhance the game’s realism and replayability.
Pros
Highly Detailed Miniatures: The sculpting of the miniatures is top-notch and accurately represents the comic characters.Dynamic Gameplay: The random elements from Event Cards and walker movements add a layer of unpredictability, making each game unique.Customizable Scenarios: Players can create their own missions and conditions for victory, increasing the game’s replay value.Cooperative Play: The game engine supports cooperative scenarios, allowing players to work together against the walker threat.
Cons
Complex Rules: The game has a learning curve due to its detailed rules and mechanics.Dependency on Expansions: Many cooperative scenarios and additional characters are available only through expansions.Storage Space: The game requires significant storage space for the miniatures, cards, and scenery.
Personal Thoughts on The Walking Dead: All Out War
The Walking Dead: All Out War is ideal for fans of the comic series and those who enjoy tactical skirmish games. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate the mix of strategy and randomness, as well as those who enjoy customizing their gaming experience with additional scenery and characters. While it may have a steeper learning curve, the game offers a rich and immersive experience that captures the essence of the Walking Dead universe.
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