Maximum Apocalypse: Wasted Wilds (2023) Board Game

Maximum Apocalypse: Wasted Wilds is an expansion for the base game Maximum Apocalypse, which was originally released in in 2023. This expansion introduces new survivors, monsters, missions, and gameplay mechanics set in a post-apocalyptic world. Designed by Mike Gnade and published by Rock Manor Games, this game offers a unique twist on the survival genre.

Game Components of Maximum Apocalypse: Wasted Wilds

Character miniatures

Character decks

Map tiles

Monster tokens

Item cards

Dice

Van tile

Cavern tiles

Hostility level tokens

Fuel tokens

Various mission cards and scenario materials

How To Setup Maximum Apocalypse: Wasted Wilds

To set up the game, players select their characters and take their respective decks. Each player places their character mini on the Van tile, draws four cards, and surrounds themselves with facedown map tiles. The specific scenario or mission will dictate additional setup, such as starting inventory or initial monster placements.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Character Selection and Deck Management: Players choose characters with unique abilities and manage their decks throughout the game.

Tile Exploration: Moving onto tiles reveals various effects, such as free scavenging actions or monster encounters.

Monster Encounters: Monsters are spawned based on dice rolls and tile interactions.

Resource Management: Players must manage hunger, inventory, and other resources to survive.

Mission Objectives: Objectives vary by scenario, often involving reaching specific locations or completing tasks like rescuing a Nordic tribe kid or delivering fuel.

Parlay and Trade: Improving relations with tribes through item sacrifices to avoid hostility.

Randomization: The game uses card draws, tile flips, and dice rolls to create unpredictable scenarios.

Player Experience

Playing **Maximum Apocalypse: Wasted Wilds** is an intense and unpredictable experience. The game is surprisingly easy to get into, with simple rules and a straightforward setup. However, the gameplay is filled with challenges such as fighting off sabertooth tigers, mammoths, and hostile human tribes. The game’s focus on risk management and random events ensures that even experienced players cannot predict the outcome, making it a thrilling and dynamic experience.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules and quick setup.

High Replayability: Randomization through cards, tiles, and dice ensures unique playthroughs each time.

Engaging Mechanics: Innovative use of parlay and trade mechanisms to manage relations with tribes.

Cooperative Gameplay: Encourages teamwork and strategic discussion among players.

Post-Apocalyptic Setting: Rich world-building with a focus on survival and resource management.

Cons

Random Difficulty: The game lacks a consistent difficulty arc, with challenges varying unpredictably throughout the game.

Uneven Sessions: Some sessions can be extremely hard from start to finish, while others may be relatively smooth.

Luck Dependency: High reliance on random events can lead to sessions feeling either very easy or extremely difficult based on luck.

Personal Thoughts on Maximum Apocalypse: Wasted Wilds

**Maximum Apocalypse: Wasted Wilds** is ideal for players who enjoy cooperative games, roguelike elements, and post-apocalyptic settings. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a high level of randomization and are looking for a game that challenges them differently each time. The game’s ease of entry and dynamic gameplay make it accessible to new players, while its depth and unpredictability keep experienced players engaged. If you’re a fan of deck-building and survival mechanics, this game is definitely worth exploring.

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