Rescue from the Hive (1981) Board Game

Rescue from the Hive is a science fiction wargame released in 1981 by SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.). Designed by Nick Karp, the game is set in a futuristic world where players take on the role of scientists attempting to rescue their fellow comrades from an alien hive.

Game Components of Rescue from the Hive

Map: A map of the inside of the alien spaceship with six nesting areas connected by corridors.

Counters: Representing humans, Znon aliens, and traps.

Rule Sheet: Detailed rules for gameplay.

Record Log Sheet: For tracking game progress.

Forces: Terran players can buy scouts, engineers, two-person lancer units, and up to six Darter space ships. Znon players start with the Master Queen, seven other Queens, and the two hostages, with options to buy additional soldiers, workers, traps, and fake traps.

How To Setup Rescue from the Hive

To set up the game, each player allocates points to their forces. The Terran player purchases units such as scouts and lancer units, while the Znon player starts with the Master Queen and other essential units, and can buy additional soldiers and traps. The Znon player places all their counters on the ship map facedown, ensuring at least one Queen in each nesting area and the Master Queen with the hostages. Once the Znon setup is complete, the Terran player makes an irrevocable choice of objective: either to rescue the hostages or to conduct a punitive mission.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Turn-Based: The game is played over a set number of turns.

Combat: Engagements between Terran units and Znon defenses.

Mind Control: Znon Queens can attempt to control Terran units.

Trap Mechanism: Terrans must navigate and destroy traps set by the Znon.

Objectives

Rescue the Hostages: The Terran player must rescue both hostages and safely evacuate them via a Darter with at least 50% of the Marines.

Punitive Mission: The Terran player aims to kill as many Znon as possible to achieve victory points. Rescuing the hostages provides additional points but is not necessary for victory.

Znon Victory: The Znon player wins if the hostages do not survive, more than 50% of the Marines are killed, or if the game reaches the end of the final turn, allowing the Znon to engage their hyperdrive and escape.

Player Experience

**Rescue from the Hive** offers a dynamic and challenging experience, especially for fans of science fiction and tactical gameplay. The game requires strategic planning and execution, as players must manage their resources and make critical decisions under pressure. The inclusion of solitaire rules adds versatility, making it accessible for solo players as well.

Pros

Dynamic Gameplay: The game is quite dynamic, with multiple paths to victory.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and resource management.

Solitaire Option: Includes rules for solo play, enhancing replayability.

Thematic Engagement: Immersive sci-fi setting with a compelling rescue mission scenario.

Cons

Complex Rules: The rules can be difficult for beginning players to master.

Setup Time: Setting up the game can be time-consuming due to the placement of counters and allocation of forces.

Limited Player Count: Designed for two players, limiting group play options.

Personal Thoughts on Rescue from the Hive

**Rescue from the Hive** is ideal for fans of tactical board games and science fiction enthusiasts. It offers a rich and immersive gaming experience that requires strategy and tactical thinking. While it may present a learning curve due to its complex rules, the game rewards players with deep and engaging gameplay. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy solo games, as the solitaire rules provide an alternative way to enjoy the game.

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