The X-Files Board Game is based on the popular sci-fi television series that aired from 1993 to
The game was released in 2015 by IDW Games and designed by menton3, aiming to immerse players in the mysterious and thrilling world of FBI agents Mulder and Scully as they investigate paranormal phenomena.Game Components of The X-Files
Game board featuring a map of the continental United StatesAgent cards with unique abilities and skillsX-File case cards named after episodes from the first three seasonsInfluence tokens (serving as action points)Progress tokens for solving casesEvidence tokens used to buy puzzle piecesSyndicate cards and influence tokens for the Cigarette Smoking ManAgent and Syndicate decksPuzzle pieces of Mulder’s I Want To Believe poster
How To Setup The X-Files
To set up the game, players first place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each agent chooses a character and places their agent token on the starting location. The X-File deck is shuffled and placed within reach of all players. The Syndicate player sets up their screen and shuffled Syndicate deck. Influence tokens and progress tokens are distributed accordingly. Each agent receives a starting hand of cards, and the Syndicate player places initial X-File cases on the board.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Gameplay Mechanics
Agent Movement: Agents move across the board, trading cards with fellow agents in the same region.Influence Collection: Agents collect influence tokens to play cards.Card Play: Agents play cards to investigate X-File cases, each requiring a specific amount of progress tokens.Syndicate Intervention: The Syndicate player regulates game processes, removes evidence tokens, and plays Syndicate cards to hinder agents.Special Abilities: Each agent has unique skills and abilities.
Game Objective
Agents’ Goal: Collect and assemble nine puzzle pieces of Mulder’s I Want To Believe poster by solving X-File cases and collecting evidence tokens.Syndicate Goal: Delay agents long enough to shut down the X-Files department through attrition.
Player Experience
The game offers a mix of strategy and thematic engagement, though the X-Files theme does not come through strongly due to the generic design of the components. Players must strategically play cards to solve cases, manage influence, and navigate the interference from the Syndicate player. The unique abilities of each agent add a layer of complexity and teamwork, while the Syndicate player’s role introduces a competitive element.
Pros
Variety in Agent Abilities: Each agent has distinct skills and abilities, adding depth to gameplay.Strategic Card Play: Players must think strategically about which cards to play and when.Competitive Element: The Syndicate player adds a challenging and engaging competitive aspect.Thematic Integration: Cases are named after actual episodes, adding some thematic flair.
Cons
Generic Design: The game components lack strong thematic distinction, making the game feel somewhat generic.Mechanical Repetition: Solving cases involves placing progress tokens, which can feel repetitive.Lopsided Balance: The game can feel lopsided in favor of the Syndicate player, especially with certain expansions.
Personal Thoughts on The X-Files
This game is ideal for fans of the X-Files series and those who enjoy cooperative/competitive gameplay with strategic depth. While it may not fully capture the essence of the show, it provides an engaging experience with its unique mechanics and character abilities. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking a strongly thematic game or a more balanced competitive experience.
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