After the Virus (2017) Board Game

After the Virus is a cooperative card game released in 2017 by FryxGames. Designed by Jacob Fryxelius and illustrated by Daniel Fryxelius, this game delves into the post-apocalyptic world of a zombie outbreak. Players must work together to survive in a world overrun by the undead.

Game Components of After the Virus

Character Boards: Each player chooses one of four unique characters, each with their own starting deck of 10 cards.

Decks: Three main decks – the starting deck, the zombie pile (with zombies of strength 1 to 4), and the Area deck (containing cards to buy throughout the game).

Cards: Include events, weapons, traps, medical equipment, and people that help players kill zombies and complete missions.

Zombie Cards: Increase in number and strength with each deck reshuffle.

Missions: 16 different missions that vary objectives and gameplay approaches.

Wave Marker: Tracks the increasing number of zombie cards added to the deck with each reshuffle.

How To Setup After the Virus

To set up the game, each player selects a character and receives their unique starting deck. The zombie pile and Area deck are prepared according to the mission selected. Each mission has its own unique rules and objectives, which are outlined in the mission description. Players then begin their simultaneous turns, managing their decks and actions to survive the zombie apocalypse.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Simultaneous Turns: Players take actions simultaneously, playing cards from their hands to perform various actions like scouting, saving survivors, readying weapons, or running from zombies.

Card Management: Non-event cards are placed sideways and often require additional cards to be prepared. Players can search the Area deck to buy new cards.

Zombie Encounters: Zombie cards attack players if not discarded, causing wounds and returning to the zombie pile.

Deck Reshuffle: With each reshuffle, the zombie wave increases, adding more and stronger zombies to the deck.

Mission Objectives: Complete specific missions by fighting zombies, saving people, and fulfilling the mission’s unique goals.

Player Experience

After the Virus offers a tense and challenging experience, with a high level of replayability due to the diverse missions and unique character starting decks. The game requires strategic thinking and constant decision-making, as players must balance deck efficiency with the need to acquire new cards to survive. The simultaneous turns and lack of downtime keep the game engaging from start to finish.

Pros

High Replayability: 16 different missions and unique character decks ensure varied gameplay.

Thematic Integration: Mechanics align well with the zombie apocalypse theme.

Multi-Use Cards: No cards are wasted, as they can always be used in some capacity.

Cooperative and Solo Play: Excellent for both cooperative and solo gameplay experiences.

Tense and Challenging: Constantly increasing zombie threat keeps the game engaging.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Complex decision-making and card management can be overwhelming for new players.

Zombie Overwhelm: The increasing number of zombies can lead to a sense of hopelessness if not managed properly.

Personal Thoughts on After the Virus

After the Virus is ideal for fans of cooperative games and deck builders, especially those who enjoy the zombie apocalypse theme. It offers a unique blend of strategy and thematic coherence, making it a great addition to any board game collection. The game’s ability to cater to both cooperative and solo play enhances its appeal, and the varied missions ensure that no two games are the same. If you’re looking for a game that challenges you and keeps you on the edge of your seat, After the Virus is an excellent choice.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.