Planet Busters (1982) Board Game

Planet Busters is a board game released in 1982, designed by Alvin Helms and Tom Wham. It is a science fiction wargame that allows 2-4 players to engage in strategic battles in outer space. The game features hand management, dice rolling, secret unit deployment, and variable set-up mechanics.

Game Components of Planet Busters

Game board

Rulebook

Player pieces

Cards

Dice

How To Setup Planet Busters

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Each player selects their color and takes the corresponding player pieces.

Shuffle the cards and deal them out to each player.

Place the dice within reach of all players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Planet Busters, players take on the role of space commanders vying for control over planets in a fictional galaxy. The objective is to strategically deploy units, manage resources, and outmaneuver opponents to conquer the most planets and emerge victorious.

Player Experience

Pros:

Engaging and strategic gameplay

Variable set-up adds replay value

Thematic and immersive sci-fi elements

Cons:

Steep learning curve for new players

Luck-based outcomes due to dice rolling

Limited player interaction in some scenarios

Personal Thoughts on Planet Busters

Planet Busters is a classic wargame that offers a deep and immersive experience for fans of science fiction and strategic gameplay. The build quality of the components is solid, and the artwork by Tactical Studies Rules and Troll Lord Games adds to the thematic appeal.

In terms of pricing and availability, Planet Busters can be found both new and used online, with prices varying depending on the condition of the game. As an alternative, players might also enjoy similar games such as Twilight Imperium or Eclipse for a more complex space-themed strategy experience.

Ultimately, whether Planet Busters is worth your time depends on your interest in the genre and your willingness to invest time in learning the rules. For fans of wargames and science fiction, Planet Busters offers a challenging and rewarding gaming experience, while those looking for a more casual or streamlined game may want to skip this one.

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