Cults Across America (1998) Board Game

Cults Across America is a board game released in 1998, designed by Jeff Tidball and published by Atlas Games. The game falls under the categories of horror and wargame, with a runtime of 180 minutes and recommended for players aged 12 and up. The game involves dice rolling and point-to-point movement mechanics, allowing for strategic gameplay.

Game Components of Cults Across America

Game board featuring a map of the U.S. and other realms like Rl’yeh and the Dreamlands

384 counters

112 cards

2 dice

Complete rules of play

Blank cards available for custom innovations.

How To Setup Cults Across America

Setting up *Cults Across America* involves distributing starting cultist cells, equipment, and cards among the players. Each player selects their starting cultists, high priests, and other units, which are then placed on the game board. Players also receive initial funds and cards that can be used for various actions during the game. The specific setup details are outlined in the thorough and well-written rulebook provided with the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Dice Rolling: Used for resolving combat and other actions.

Point to Point Movement: Players move their units across the map.

Resource Management: Managing funds to buy equipment, new cultists, and cards.

Combat Simulations: Engaging in battles between cultist cells and other units.

Game Objective

Standard Game: Win by controlling cities from one coast to the other and the President, gaining 10 victory points, or eliminating all other cults.

Strategic Game: Focuses on strategy, removing random elements and the victory point victory condition.

Bloodbath Scenario: Simplified rules, emphasizing direct combat and destruction, with the goal of being the last cult standing.

Player Experience

*Cults Across America* offers a light-hearted and humorous take on world domination, infused with Lovecraftian horror elements. Players enjoy the variety in gameplay, whether they opt for deep strategic planning or a chaotic bloodbath. The game includes a range of cards that add an element of chaos and unpredictability, making each game unique. The name stand provided in the rulebook, for naming your cult and leaving messages, adds a fun and creative element to the game.

Pros

High replay value due to multiple game variants and winning conditions.

Humorous and light-hearted approach to the Cthulhu Mythos theme.

Engaging gameplay mechanics, including dice rolling and combat simulations.

Customizable with blank cards for added creativity.

Cons

Thin and flimsy game board.

Lack of containers for chits, which can be frustrating.

High price point for the quality of components provided.

Personal Thoughts on Cults Across America

*Cults Across America* is ideal for fans of the Cthulhu Mythos and those who enjoy a mix of strategy and chaos in their board games. It’s a great choice for groups looking for a fun, engaging, and often hilarious gaming experience. While the game’s components could be improved, the overall experience and replay value make it a worthwhile addition to any board game collection. If you’re into Lovecraftian themes and don’t mind a bit of madness, this game is definitely worth checking out.

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