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Advanced Space Crusade (1990) Board Game

ByMichail

Advanced Space Crusade is a board game released in 1990 by Games Workshop. It is set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe and is a follow-up to the popular Space Crusade game. Designed by Chris Baker, John Blanche, Paul Bonner, and Paul Campbell, Advanced Space Crusade offers players the chance to engage in tactical combat in a science fiction setting.

Game Components of Advanced Space Crusade

  • Three Space Marine Scout squads**
  • Six Tyranid Warriors**
  • Modular board pieces** to build the Tyranid Hiveship interior
  • “Blips”** that represent Tyranid forces
  • Rules and campaign booklets**
  • Miniatures from the old Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine and Tyranid range**

    How To Setup Advanced Space Crusade

    To set up the game, one player prepares the modular board by creating the layout of the Tyranid Hiveship, keeping it secret from the other player. This layout is built gradually as the game progresses. The Space Marine player sets up their squads, and the Tyranid player places “blips” to represent their forces. The game includes suggestions for both campaign and one-off game setups.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Turn-based gameplay: Space Marines move and fire, followed by the Tyranids moving and firing.
  • Exploration: Space Marines explore the bioship to locate and destroy its vital organs.
  • Map building: The Tyranid player reveals the map pieces as the Space Marines advance.
  • Objective: The Space Marines aim to survive and complete their mission, while the Tyranids aim to eliminate the Space Marine squads.

    Player Experience

    Advanced Space Crusade offers a dynamic and immersive experience, particularly for fans of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. The game’s modular design and hidden map mechanism create a sense of unknown danger, mimicking the claustrophobic and perilous environment of a Tyranid Hiveship. Players must strategize and adapt as the game unfolds.

    Pros

  • Immersive theme: Deeply entrenched in the Warhammer 40,000 lore.
  • Modular board: Provides high replayability with different layouts each game.
  • Simple yet engaging mechanics: Easy to learn but challenging to master.
  • Campaign play: Allows for extended story-driven gameplay.

    Cons

  • Complex setup: Preparing the game can be time-consuming.
  • Out of print: Difficult to find, especially in good condition.
  • Limited player count: Designed primarily for two players.

    Personal Thoughts on Advanced Space Crusade

    Advanced Space Crusade is a hidden gem for fans of sci-fi and tactical board games. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy the Warhammer 40,000 universe and are looking for a game that combines strategy, exploration, and a strong narrative element. However, its rarity and complexity may deter casual gamers. Despite this, it remains a compelling choice for those willing to invest time in setting up and mastering the game.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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