Revolt on Antares (1981) Board Game

Revolt on Antares is a science fiction wargame released in 1981 by Tactical Studies Rules (TSR). The game is designed for 2-4 players and has a runtime of about 45 minutes. With designers like Jeff Dee, Dave LaForce, Erol Otus, Jim Roslof, and Bill Willingham, Revolt on Antares promises an exciting and immersive gameplay experience.

Game Components of Revolt on Antares

Rulebook

Full-color hex-map

Counters (troops, leaders, and artifacts)

One six-sided die

Artwork by Erol Otus, Jeff Dee, David S. LaForce, Jim Roslof, and Bill Willingham

Seven different ruling family leaders with unique abilities and artifacts

Terran Empire forces, native, and alien Silakkan factions

How To Setup Revolt on Antares

Setting up the game involves placing the hex-map, distributing the counters, and each player selecting a faction or house leader. Each house leader has a set of forces including hovercraft, jump troops, laser tanks, and power infantry, along with a special artifact. The game includes three scenarios, and the setup varies slightly depending on the chosen scenario.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Scenarios: Three scenarios – Revolt Against Terra, The Silakka Invasion, and Power Politics on Imirrhos.

Turn Structure: Each turn consists of ten ordered phases including movement, combat, recruitment, and forging alliances.

Victory Points: Earned by owning or capturing economic zones and house fortresses.

Combat Mechanics: Combat factors and dice rolls determine outcomes, with special abilities from leaders, artifacts, and galactic heroes affecting results.

Terrain Impact: Terrain affects movement, with some units able to cross water while others require special pieces like hovercraft.

Alliances and Recruitment: Players can hire galactic heroes and form alliances.

Player Experience

Revolt on Antares is remembered fondly by many old-school players for its unique blend of science fiction and strategic gameplay. The game is often compared to a futuristic, simpler version of RISK, with faster gameplay and special touches like the diverse house leaders and powerful artifacts. The gameplay is engaging, with multiple scenarios offering varied experiences.

Pros

Variety in Scenarios: Three distinct scenarios provide different gameplay experiences.

Unique Leaders and Artifacts: Each house leader and artifact brings special abilities, adding depth to the game.

Fast-Paced Gameplay: Games are generally shorter than those of RISK.

Simple yet Strategic: Easy to learn but with enough complexity for strategic thinking.

Cons

Limited Player Count: Designed for two to four players.

Outdated Components: The game’s components and artwork may appear dated to modern players.

Complexity in Rules: While the game is generally simple, some players may find the multiple phases and special abilities overwhelming.

Personal Thoughts on Revolt on Antares

Revolt on Antares is a gem for those who enjoy science fiction and strategic microgames. It is particularly suited for fans of Tom Moldvay’s work and those who appreciate the nostalgia of 1980s gaming. The game’s unique characters, artifacts, and scenarios make it a compelling choice for anyone looking for a quick, engaging game with a rich science fiction backdrop. However, it may not appeal to players seeking highly complex or modern game mechanics.

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