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DOOM: The Board Game (2016) Board Game

ByMichail

DOOM: The Board Game is based on the iconic video game franchise DOOM, which first debuted in in 2016. The board game version was released in 2016 by Fantasy Flight Games, known for their high-quality and immersive board games. Designed by Jonathan Ying, the game brings the fast-paced action and intense combat of the video game to the tabletop format.

Game Components of DOOM: The Board Game

  • 37 Detailed Plastic Figures: 4 marines and 33 demons.
  • 6 Dice: 4 red and 2 black.
  • 196 Various Cards: Including action cards, class cards, and event cards.
  • 179 Various Tokens**.
  • 24 Map Tiles: Double-sided for modular board setup.
  • 8 Doors With Stands**.
  • 3 Manuals: Learn To Play, Rules Reference, and Operation Guide.
  • 6 Different Starting Weapons: 2 of each, 3 types of grenades, and 5 powerful weapon pickups.

    How To Setup DOOM: The Board Game

    To set up the game, players start by choosing a mission from one of the six operations, each consisting of six missions. The invader player sets up the map using the modular board tiles and prepares the threat, invasion, and event cards. The marines select their class cards and loadouts, combining standard issue weapons with core action cards to form their action decks. The invader player’s setup includes deciding on the demon invasion groups and event cards, which are kept hidden from the marines. The game also involves placing doors, tokens, and other components on the board according to the specific mission’s objectives and rules.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Asymmetrical Gameplay: One invader player controls the demons, while one to four players control the marines.
  • Mission Objectives: Marines aim to complete specific objectives like restoring power or manning expeditions, while the invader must kill the marines a certain number of times to win.
  • Modular Board: Missions take place on unique maps with special rules and objectives.
  • Card-Driven Actions: Marines use action cards to move, attack, and defend, while the invader uses event cards and invasion cards to summon and control demons.
  • Initiative System: Random card draws determine the order of actions for both marines and demons.
  • Glory Kills: Marines can perform Glory Kills on weakened demons for special abilities and bonuses.
  • Telefragging: Marines can spawn on teleporters to immediately kill demons standing on them.

    Player Experience

    DOOM: The Board Game offers a fast-paced and intense experience, capturing the essence of the video game. Players appreciate the game’s ease of learning, despite its complexity at first. The game is highly replayable with 12 very replayable missions and the option to create custom operations. The modular board and various card decks add to the game’s variability. Players also enjoy the detailed miniatures and the overall production quality of the game components.

    Pros

  • High Replayability: Multiple missions and customizable operations.
  • Detailed Miniatures: Faithful to the original video game characters.
  • Engaging Gameplay: Fast-paced and intense combat.
  • Good Production Quality: Well-done artwork and robust game components.
  • Easy to Learn: Despite initial complexity, the game is generally easy to pick up.

    Cons

  • Modular Board Setup: Can be time-consuming and difficult to store.
  • Balance Issues: Some players find the game biased towards the invader, especially with four marine players.
  • Cost: Some consider it pricey, especially if not on sale.

    Personal Thoughts on DOOM: The Board Game

    DOOM: The Board Game is ideal for fans of the DOOM video game series and those who enjoy tactical combat and asymmetrical gameplay. It is perfect for groups of two to five players looking for a challenging yet fun experience. While it may have some balance issues and a somewhat cumbersome setup, the game’s replayability, detailed components, and faithful adaptation of the video game make it a standout in its category. If you’re looking for a game that combines strategy with the thrill of combat, DOOM: The Board Game is definitely worth considering.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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