Last Night on Earth: The Zombie Game (2007)

Last Night on Earth

“Last Night on Earth: The Zombie Game” is a survival horror board game published in 2007. Designed by Jason C. Hill, the game pits small-town heroes against a horde of zombies. Set in the 1940s middle America, players can choose to play on the Hero team or as the Zombies. The game has gained popularity due to its cinematic feel, modular board, and various scenarios that drastically change the game.

Why is Last Night on Earth Popular?

“Last Night on Earth” is popular for several reasons:
– Cinematic Feel: The game offers a B-movie atmosphere, with a modular board and various scenarios that create a sense of immersion and excitement.
– Replayability: The game has a high replay value due to its multiple scenarios, each with specific goals, and the ability to play as either the Heroes or the Zombies.
– Player Experience: The game is mostly about the experience, with players often remembering specific moments or stories from their games, rather than just the outcome.

Game Components of Last Night on Earth: The Zombie Game

Modular Board: Comprises a double-sided center square and four L-shaped boards, randomly arranged to create a unique town layout for each game.

Hero Characters: Eight playable heroes, each with unique abilities and starting locations.

Zombie Miniatures: Up to 14 zombies can be in play at any time.

Scenario Cards: Multiple scenarios with different objectives and challenges.

CD Soundtrack: Features original music to enhance the game atmosphere.

Game Cards: Include Hand Weapons, Events, and other cards to influence gameplay.

Dice: Used for determining zombie movements and combat outcomes.

Expansions: Several expansions available, such as *Growing Hunger*, *Hero Pack 1*, *Zombies with Grave Weapons*, *Survival of the Fittest*, *Timber Peak*, and *Blood in the Forest*.

How To Setup Last Night on Earth: The Zombie Game

To set up the game, players start by arranging the modular board. The double-sided center square is placed either side up depending on the scenario, and four L-shaped boards are randomly chosen and placed around it. Hero players select four characters randomly and determine their starting locations based on the scenario. Zombie players roll a die to determine the initial number of zombies on the board, which are then placed on designated Spawning Pits.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: The game is divided into Zombie Turns and Hero Turns.

Zombie Turn: Zombie players draw cards, discard if necessary, roll dice to spawn new zombies, and move existing zombies. Zombies automatically engage heroes in the same space.

Hero Turn: Hero players take individual turns performing actions such as moving, fighting, or using items.

Combat: Hero players roll two dice, while zombie players roll one die; ties favor the zombies, and doubles rolled by heroes kill zombies.

Objectives: Each scenario has unique objectives, such as escaping town, defending a location, or killing a certain number of zombies. The game ends when one team achieves its objective or the turn limit is reached.

Player Experience

Last Night on Earth: The Zombie Game offers a dynamic and cinematic experience, mimicking the plots of horror movies. Players enjoy the photographic artwork, the original soundtrack, and the variety of scenarios that keep the game fresh. The game’s pacing is well-designed, allowing for quick games or longer, more strategic plays. The modular board and multiple expansions ensure high replayability.

Pros

High Replayability: Multiple scenarios and modular board ensure unique games each time.

Cinematic Experience: Photographic art and original soundtrack enhance the horror movie feel.

Balanced Gameplay: Well-balanced mechanics between heroes and zombies.

Expansions Available: Several expansions add new heroes, zombies, and scenarios.

Engaging Gameplay: Dynamic turns and varied actions keep players involved.

Cons

Rule Complexity: Initial setup and rules can be complex for new players.

Luck Element: Dice rolls can significantly influence game outcomes, potentially leading to quick wins or losses.

Personal Thoughts on Last Night on Earth: The Zombie Game

This game is ideal for fans of horror movies and zombie apocalypses, as well as those who enjoy cooperative and competitive gameplay. It’s suitable for groups of 2-6 players and is particularly appealing to those who appreciate B-movie tropes and cinematic storytelling. The game’s balance and replayability make it a great addition to any board game collection, offering hours of fun and challenging gameplay. However, it may require some time to master the rules and setup, but the payoff is well worth the effort.

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