Attack of the Mutants! (1981)

Attack of the Mutants!

Attack of the Mutants! is a board game that was first published in 1981. The game is set in a college science lab where a horde of mutants invade, and the players must use the equipment in the science building to escape to an alternate Earth. The game has a 1950s monster B-movie theme and is known for its campy horror style.

Why is Attack of the Mutants! Popular?

Attack of the Mutants! is popular among board game enthusiasts due to its unique theme and Gameplay Mechanics of Attack of the Mutants!. The game is significant for its hidden movement gameplay, where one player controls the mutants and the other players control the human characters trying to escape. The game is also known for its retro style and nostalgic appeal, as it captures the feel of 1950s monster movies.

Game Components of Attack of the Mutants!

Game Board: A three-part board, 25 by 12 inches, featuring the Science Building, Combat Display, and turn tracker.

Counters: Over 100 counters made of thick card, including eight human survivors, 24 Janibots, more than 50 mutants (Mutant Leaders, Radioactive Mutants, and normal Mutants), and counters for broken doors, barricades, and turn order.

Dice: Two six-sided dice (not included with the game).

Optional Components: Hidden movement board and an alternate scenario board.

How To Setup Attack of the Mutants!

Setup involves the Human player placing Professor Applewhite, Penny, and other humans along with Janibots throughout the Science Building. The Human player also sets up barricades, which are impassable by mutants. The Mutant player then places their forces around the four sides of the building, ensuring one Mutant Leader on each side.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Combat: Handled on the Combat Display, where players roll dice to defeat opponents based on their combat values.

Turn Structure: Includes Human and Mutant Combat Phases, and a ‘Glow and Go’ phase where Radioactive Mutants may succumb to radiation sickness.

Randomization: Map and setup are randomized for replayability using movable Wall counters.

Optional Rules: Adjusting balance, facing overwhelming odds, hidden movement, and an alternate scenario.

Game Objective

Human Victory: Requires one Tech and three Human Guards in the Tech Room at the end of the game for a decisive victory. A marginal victory is achieved with at least two humans in the Tech Room.

Mutant Victory: Requires one Mutant Leader and three other mutants in the Tech Room for a decisive victory. A marginal victory is achieved with at least two mutants in the Tech Room.

Player Experience

**Attack of the Mutants** offers a fast-paced, dice-rolling experience filled with luck and tactical decisions. Players must navigate the corridors of the Science Building, managing resources and positioning to outmaneuver their opponents. The game’s campy theme and simple yet engaging mechanics make it a fun, if somewhat predictable, experience.

Pros

Replayability: Randomized setup and optional rules enhance replay value.

Thematic Engagement: The B-movie horror theme is vividly captured through the game’s components and mechanics.

Simple to Learn: Easy setup and straightforward rules make it accessible to new players.

Cons

Luck-Dependent: Combat outcomes are heavily based on dice rolls, which can lead to frustrating wins or losses.

Component Issues: Counters can be too large for some rooms, as noted by some reviewers.

Limited Skill Involvement: The game’s simplicity means that skill plays a lesser role compared to luck.

Personal Thoughts on Attack of the Mutants!

**Attack of the Mutants** is ideal for fans of retro board games and those who enjoy light, thematic experiences. It’s a great choice for casual gamers looking for a quick, entertaining game session rather than a deeply strategic one. The game’s campy charm and straightforward mechanics make it a fun addition to any board game collection, especially for those who appreciate the nostalgia of 1980s gaming.

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