Alien: USCSS Nostromo (2019) Board Game

Alien: USCSS Nostromo is a board game based on the iconic science fiction horror film “Alien” directed by Ridley Scott. Released in 2019, the game allows players to relive the tension and suspense of the movie as they navigate the corridors of the USCSS Nostromo spaceship while being hunted by a deadly alien creature.

Game Components of Alien: USCSS Nostromo

Game board representing the Nostromo ship

Crew member tokens and character cards

Alien token

Item cards for supplies and crafting

Conceal tokens for hidden dangers or surprises

Morale tokens to track crew sanity

Objective cards for final missions

How To Setup Alien: USCSS Nostromo

Setting up the game involves placing the game board, which is a detailed map of the Nostromo ship. Each player selects a crew member token and corresponding character card, which outlines their special abilities. The Alien token is placed randomly on the board. Players start at designated crew quarters, and item cards are distributed. The game also includes conceal tokens that can reveal empty rooms, Jonesy the cat, or the menacing Alien.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics:

Cooperative gameplay for crew members

Asymmetric gameplay when one player takes the role of the Alien

Movement and resource management

Crafting and trading items

Morale management to avoid crew breakdown

Game Objective:

Crew members must work together to move through the ship, gather supplies, and craft items.

Complete objectives and one of five final missions before morale runs out.

The Alien player aims to hunt down and eliminate the crew.

Player Experience

Playing Alien: USCSS Nostromo is an immersive experience that captures the tension and dread of the original film. Crew members must coordinate their actions, utilize their unique abilities, and manage resources carefully to survive. The Alien player, on the other hand, must use stealth and strategy to pick off the crew one by one. The game’s use of conceal tokens adds an element of surprise, keeping players on edge as they explore the ship.

Pros

Immersive theme that stays true to the Alien franchise

Cooperative gameplay encourages teamwork and strategy

Asymmetric gameplay offers a unique experience for the Alien player

High replayability with multiple final missions and random enemy placements

Cons

Some players have raised concerns about the game’s design being allegedly stolen from an original designer

Can be complex to set up and learn for new players

Personal Thoughts on Alien: USCSS Nostromo

Alien: USCSS Nostromo is perfect for fans of the Alien series and those who enjoy cooperative and asymmetric gameplay. It is best suited for groups of gamers who value strategy and teamwork. While it may have some setup and learning curve challenges, the game offers a rich and engaging experience that will keep you coming back for more. If you’re looking for a game that combines horror and strategy, this is an excellent choice.

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