Alien vs Predator: The Hunt Begins (Second Edition) (2017) Board Game

Alien vs Predator: The Hunt Begins is a board game set in the iconic universe of the Alien and Predator franchises. The second edition of the game was released in 2017 by Prodos Games, Ltd. It is a miniatures wargame that pits players against each other as they take on the roles of either the fearsome Aliens, the technologically advanced Predators, or the human Colonial Marines.

Game Components of Alien vs Predator: The Hunt Begins

Miniatures: Detailed 32mm scale miniatures for Alien, Predator, and Marine factions, with unique poses and designs.

Floor Tiles: Smaller and slightly different from the first edition, representing various areas of the USCSS Theseus.

Manual: A more compact manual compared to the first edition.

Game Boards: Corridors, rooms (e.g., Engine Room, Armoury, Bridge), and air-vents.

Tokens and Cards: Ping tokens for hidden units, and various action cards.

Dice: Used for initiative and resolving combats.

How To Setup Alien vs Predator: The Hunt Begins

Setup involves creating the map of the USCSS Theseus using the floor tiles, placing doors, and setting up the initial positions of the factions. Players must follow the scenario’s setup instructions, including placing pings for hidden units, setting up specific rules for the scenario, and defining the theme and objectives for each faction.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Modes:
– Competitive: All factions battle each other.
– Cooperative: Marines and Predators ally against the Alien threat.

Turn Structure: Each turn has four phases, including initiative determination, action resolution, and sequential activation of units.

Actions:
– Initiative: Determined by dice rolls.
– Actions: Includes moving, attacking, using special abilities like cloaking for Predators, hiding for Aliens, and using various weapons for Marines.
– Extended Actions: Such as running, skulking advance, and field wound treatment.

Objectives: Unique for each faction, ranging from simple kill orders to complex, multi-threaded objectives.

Player Experience

Playing **Alien vs Predator: The Hunt Begins** is a fast-paced and claustrophobic experience, especially with three players representing the Alien, Predator, and Marine factions. The game demands strategic thinking, as each faction has its strengths and weaknesses. Marines face relentless pressure from both Aliens and Predators, while Aliens rely on sheer numbers and stealth. Predators are powerful individual fighters but can be overwhelmed by coordinated attacks.

Pros

Detailed Miniatures: Highly detailed and dynamic miniatures for all factions.

Variety in Scenarios: Multiple missions and objectives keep the game fresh and challenging.

Strategic Depth: Requires players to adopt specific strategies based on their faction’s strengths and weaknesses.

Expansibility: Potential for expansions with new units like Face Huggers and Predaliens.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game lacks a quick start guide, leading to a steep learning curve due to detailed rules on line of sight, camouflage, and special abilities.

Balance Issues: Marines often have the hardest time due to the combined threat from Aliens and Predators.

Personal Thoughts on Alien vs Predator: The Hunt Begins

This game is ideal for fans of the Alien and Predator franchise and those who enjoy strategic, miniature-based combat games. It offers a rich and immersive experience, particularly with three players, and its expandable nature ensures long-term replayability. However, it may not be the best fit for casual players due to its complex rules and steep learning curve.

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