Board game titled "Alien Contact" featuring an illustration of an astronaut with a weapon on a fiery alien landscape with red rocks and a large green planet in the background.
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Alien Contact: Extraterrestrial Empires in Conflict (1983)

ByMichail

Alien Contact

Alien Contact is a board game published by Phoenix Enterprises in 1983. It is a multi-player strategic wargame of conquest and expansion set in a futuristic and uninhabited sector. The game is significant because it is one of the earliest examples of a science fiction-themed board game, and it was well-received by players and critics alike.

Game Components of Alien Contact: Extraterrestrial Empires in Conflict

  • 352 die-cut counters**
  • One 28″ x 22″ mounted, full color map**
  • Area movement rules**
  • Space stations, space ships, and space marine units**
  • Resource points and technological research components**

    How To Setup Alien Contact: Extraterrestrial Empires in Conflict

    To set up the game, players first prepare the game board by placing the mounted map. Each player selects an alien race, each with its own environmental requirements that affect resource generation. Players then distribute the starting units and resources according to the rules. The game includes a detailed setup process to ensure all players begin with equal opportunities for expansion and conquest.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Area Movement: Players move their units across the game board to explore, colonize, and defend star systems.
  • Resource Management: Manage resource points to build space stations, space ships, and space marine units.
  • Technological Research: Engage in research to develop more advanced units.
  • Environmental Requirements: Each alien race has unique environmental needs affecting resource values.
  • Objective: Expand control over new star systems, develop technology, and negotiate diplomacy to outmaneuver other alien empires.

    Player Experience

    Playing **Alien Contact: Extraterrestrial Empires in Conflict** is a complex and engaging experience, especially suited for fans of strategic wargames. The game requires careful planning and resource management, as well as strategic decisions on when to expand, defend, or engage in technological advancements. With a playing time of three to six hours, it is a commitment that rewards deep strategy and patience.

    Pros

  • Deep Strategy: Offers complex gameplay with multiple layers of strategy.
  • Replayability: Different alien races and random events ensure high replayability.
  • Multi-player: Supports up to six players, making it a great option for group gaming sessions.
  • Thematic Depth: Rich science fiction theme with detailed components.

    Cons

  • Rule Complexity: The rules can be cumbersome and may need adjustments for smoother gameplay.
  • Long Playtime: The game can take three to six hours to complete, which may deter some players.
  • Moderate Innovation: Reviewers have noted that the game is not particularly innovative or exciting for more discerning players.

    Personal Thoughts on Alien Contact: Extraterrestrial Empires in Conflict

    **Alien Contact: Extraterrestrial Empires in Conflict** is ideal for fans of science fiction and strategic wargames who enjoy complex, multi-player experiences. While it may not be the most innovative game, it offers a rich and immersive experience for those willing to invest the time and effort. This game is particularly suited for groups of friends or gaming communities looking for a challenging and engaging experience. However, it may not be the best choice for casual gamers or those seeking quick, light-hearted games.

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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