Infection: Humanity’s Last Gasp (2013) Board Game

Infection: Humanity’s Last Gasp is a solitaire board game released in in 2013. It is designed by Michelle Ball, Chris Kiser, and Barry Pike, III, and published by Victory Point Games. The game falls under the medical and puzzle categories, challenging players to save humanity from a deadly virus outbreak.

Game Components of Infection: Humanity’s Last Gasp

One 24-page, full-color Rules booklet

One 11″ x 17″ game board

50 cards

77 thick, two-sided, multi-shaped game pieces

One six-sided 12mm die.

How To Setup Infection: Humanity’s Last Gasp

To set up the game, players first prepare the game board, which represents the Department of Plague Control (DPC) field office in New York City. The rules booklet guides the initial setup, including the distribution of cards and the placement of game pieces. The virus, Morbusian, is introduced with its initial mutations, and players take on their roles within the DPC to combat the outbreak.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Simple yet deep mechanics: The game uses straightforward rules combined in various ways to create complex and engaging gameplay.

Evolving virus: Players must manage and eliminate the Morbusian virus as it mutates, making it resistant to known antivirals.

Department of Plague Control roles: Players take on different roles within the DPC, each with unique abilities and responsibilities.

Objective: The primary goal is to find a cure for the Morbusian virus before it spreads uncontrollably and wipes out humanity.

Player Experience

In Infection: Humanity’s Last Gasp, players are immersed in a high-stakes scenario where every decision counts. The game demands strategic thinking and resource management as players navigate the ever-changing landscape of the virus’s mutations. The combination of simple mechanics and deep gameplay creates a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Pros

Engaging storyline: The game’s narrative of fighting a deadly virus adds a compelling layer to the gameplay.

Replayability: The virus’s mutations ensure that each game is unique.

Strategic depth: Simple rules lead to complex and engaging gameplay.

Thematic integration: The components and rules align well with the theme of battling a pandemic.

Cons

Complexity: While the mechanics are simple, managing the virus’s mutations can be intricate.

Solo play: The game is most enjoyable with multiple players, as solo play may lack the collaborative dynamic.

Learning curve: Understanding the virus’s behavior and the optimal strategies can take time.

Personal Thoughts on Infection: Humanity’s Last Gasp

Infection: Humanity’s Last Gasp is ideal for fans of strategy and puzzle games who enjoy a strong thematic element. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate games that require planning and adaptation. While it can be played solo, the game truly shines in a cooperative setting, making it a great addition to any board game collection for those who enjoy collaborative challenges.

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