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Escape from Hades (2019) Board Game

ByMichail

Escape from Hades is a science fiction wargame designed by Wil Alambre and published in in 2019. Set in the depths of space, players take on the role of prisoners attempting to escape from a maximum-security prison located on the moon of Hades. The game is a solo/solitaire experience, where players must navigate through various challenges and obstacles to secure their freedom.

Game Components of Escape from Hades

  • Maps:** 2 x 17″ x 22″ wraparound hex maps representing the exterior and interior of the prison ship.
  • Counters:** 1 countersheet with thick, durable counters.
  • Cards:** 51 cards, including battle cards and a “Nasty Surprise Deck”.
  • Rulebook:** 16-page rulebook.
  • Player Aid:** 1 four-page player aid.

    How To Setup Escape from Hades

    To set up the game, players start by preparing the two hex maps, which represent the exterior and interior of the cylindrical prison ship. The counters are punched out from the countersheet, taking care not to separate them improperly, as this can damage the counters. The battle cards and the “Nasty Surprise Deck” are shuffled and placed within reach. The player’s goal is to land on the prison’s surface, destroy its defenses, and navigate through the maintenance shafts to reach the princess.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective:** Rescue the princess, eliminate Nastian officers, retrieve the Golden Idol, or achieve other mission objectives before being overwhelmed by the enemy.
  • Combat Resolution:** Using battle cards to determine combat outcomes by subtracting negative numbers from positive numbers.
  • Random Alien Movement:** Aliens can move randomly, potentially attacking from unexpected directions due to the wraparound nature of the hex maps.
  • Time Pressure:** Players face a tight timeline and must manage their actions carefully to avoid the prison ship being destroyed.
  • AI Mechanics:** Aliens start as hidden counters and are revealed as the player searches the ship, adding an element of surprise and challenge.

    Player Experience

    In Escape from Hades, players command a crew of heroes from the Vittles, navigating a complex and dynamic environment filled with alien guards, monsters, and traps. The game features a unique blend of strategic decision-making and random elements, such as the “Nasty Surprise Deck,” which can introduce unexpected challenges and opportunities. The cylindrical design of the prison ship adds a unique twist, as enemies can move around the edges of the map to attack from the rear.

    Pros

  • High Replayability:** The game offers a high level of replayability due to random alien movements and the “Nasty Surprise Deck”.
  • Challenging but Engaging:** The game balances challenge and engagement with its tight timeline and varied objectives.
  • Unique Setting:** The cylindrical prison ship setting and wraparound maps provide a unique and visually appealing gameplay experience.
  • Colorful Artwork:** The game features gorgeous and colorful art by Wil Alambre.

    Cons

  • Complex Setup:** The setup can be somewhat complex due to the need to prepare multiple components and maps.
  • Steep Learning Curve:** The game’s mechanics, especially the combat resolution and AI systems, may take time to learn and master.
  • Solo Play Only:** The game is designed for solo play, which might limit its appeal for players seeking multiplayer experiences.

    Personal Thoughts on Escape from Hades

    Escape from Hades is ideal for fans of science fiction and solo board games who enjoy a mix of strategy and randomness. The game’s unique setting, challenging gameplay, and high replayability make it a compelling choice for those looking for a solo adventure. However, due to its complexity and solo-only design, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those seeking multiplayer interactions.

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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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