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E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial (1982) Board Game

ByMichail

E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial Board Game was released in 1982, following the massive success of the blockbuster movie of the same name directed by Steven Spielberg. The game allows players to take on the role of Elliott and his friends as they help E.T. evade government agents and build a communication device to contact his home planet.

Game Components of E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial

  • Game board** featuring various spaces and locations from the movie
  • E.T. figure** and other character figures
  • Dice** for determining movement
  • Costume cards** to protect E.T. from certain spaces
  • Transmitter puzzle pieces** to assemble a transmitter
  • Spaceship** for the final destination
  • Chips** for tracking player points
  • Tracker van** and other thematic elements

    How To Setup E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial

    To set up the game, place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a character and places their figure on the starting space. Distribute the costume cards according to the number of players (4 cards for a 2-player game, 5 for a 3-player game, and 6 for a 4-player game). The transmitter puzzle pieces are placed on their respective spaces on the board. The spaceship is kept aside until the end of the game.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Movement: Players roll a die to move E.T. and their characters around the board.
  • Costume Cards: Use costume cards to protect E.T. from negative spaces.
  • Transmitter Assembly: Collect puzzle pieces to assemble the transmitter.
  • Chip Collection: Collect chips by landing on certain spaces or helping E.T. fly.
  • Objective: The goal is to be the player with the most chips when E.T. reaches the spaceship and flies away.

    Player Experience

    Playing **E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial** is a nostalgic experience, especially for those who grew up with the movie. The game involves strategic use of costume cards and careful movement to avoid losing chips. The game’s simplicity makes it accessible to younger players, while the thematic elements keep it engaging.

    Pros

  • Thematic: The game is heavily themed around the movie, making it a must-have for fans.
  • Simple Mechanics: Easy to understand and play, making it suitable for families.
  • Nostalgic Value: Appeals to those who remember the movie and the original game release.
  • Interactive: Encourages player interaction and strategic thinking.

    Cons

  • Outdated: The game mechanics may feel dated compared to modern board games.
  • Limited Strategy: The gameplay is relatively straightforward and lacks deep strategy.
  • Components: Some components, like the dice and chips, are basic and not as engaging as modern game pieces.

    Personal Thoughts on E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial

    This game is **ideal for families and fans of the movie**. It’s a great way to introduce younger players to board games while offering a nostalgic trip for adults who loved the film. However, players seeking complex strategies or modern game mechanics might find it less engaging. Overall, it’s a fun, light-hearted game that captures the essence of the beloved movie.

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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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