Asteroid Zero-Four (1979) – Board Game Guys

Asteroid Zero-Four

Asteroid Zero-Four is a science fiction board wargame published by Task Force Games in 1979. The game is set in the asteroid belt, where American and Soviet miners have been cut off from contact with Earth by a solar storm. The game is a battle royale between two asteroid mining bases controlled by the US and USSR.

Why is Asteroid Zero-Four Popular?

Asteroid Zero-Four is considered an intelligent and challenging game that requires nerves and strategy to play well. It is a slugfest style game that takes massed attacks to saturate the defenses of the opposing base. The game is significant for its unique theme and Gameplay Mechanics of Asteroid Zero-Four.

Game Components of Asteroid Zero-Four

17″ x 22″ map

Counters for missiles, fighters, bombers, tankers, engineers, and damage

20-page rulebook

Two Strategic Displays

How To Setup Asteroid Zero-Four

To set up Asteroid Zero-Four, players start by placing the large map of the asteroid belt on the playing surface. Each player receives a set of counters representing their spacecraft, missiles, engineers, and other units. The rulebook provides detailed instructions on the initial placement of these counters and the setup of the Strategic Displays. Players also need to familiarize themselves with the various charts and tables included in the rulebook.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Launch spacecraft and missiles, reveal missile targets simultaneously, engage in combat, land to re-arm, refuel, and repair spacecraft.

Spacecraft Roles: Use spacecraft as defensive interceptors or to deliver nuclear warheads.

Damage Resolution: Calculate damage from nuclear warheads based on yield, burst height, and blast radius.

Engineering: Deploy engineers to repair damaged structures on the asteroid.

Objective: The player with the asteroid still best able to function as a mine at the end of the last turn wins.

Player Experience

Asteroid Zero-Four is often described as an intelligent and challenging game that requires strategy and nerves to play well. Players must balance offensive and defensive strategies, using missiles, lasers, and spacecraft to attack the enemy’s asteroid while protecting their own. The game is known for its detailed gameplay, which can be labor-intensive, especially in resolving missile damage and managing resources.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Offers a surprisingly deep strategy for a game of its time.

Engaging Combat: Features intense space combat with a variety of units and nuclear warheads.

Replay Value: High replayability due to the complexity of the game mechanics.

Historical Significance: Part of Task Force Games’ early microgame series.

Cons

Complex Bookkeeping: Requires significant bookkeeping, which can be time-consuming.

Lack of Innovative Design: Criticized for lacking innovative design, feeling more like a rationalization of existing mechanics.

Learning Curve: Can be bewildering for new players due to its complexity.

Personal Thoughts on Asteroid Zero-Four

Asteroid Zero-Four is a game that will appeal to fans of science fiction and wargames, particularly those who enjoy complex, strategic gameplay. It is ideal for experienced gamers who are looking for a challenge and are willing to invest time in understanding the game’s mechanics. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those seeking a quick, simple game. The game’s depth and complexity make it a rewarding experience for those who enjoy tactical planning and resource management.

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