Side Quest: Nemesis (2023) Board Game

Side Quest: Nemesis is a cooperative adventure card game set in a science fiction world. Designed by Jakub Caban and Bartosz Idzikowski, and published by Awaken Realms, this game offers players a unique and immersive gameplay experience. With stunning artwork by Magdalena Klepacz and Zbigniew Umgelter, Side Quest: Nemesis takes players on a thrilling journey full of mystery and challenges.

Game Components of Side Quest: Nemesis

Cards: The game includes a deck of cards that serve as both the rulebook and the narrative.

Sheets: Various sheets are provided for different puzzles and scenarios.

Punchboards: Contain components needed for specific puzzles.

Answer Matrix: A tool to check the correctness of puzzle solutions using a four-color/character/number system.

How To Setup Side Quest: Nemesis

Setting up the game is straightforward and intuitive. Upon opening the box, you are directed to start with the first card, which begins the tutorial in a step-by-step manner. The game teaches you the rules as you progress, eliminating the need for a traditional rulebook. Components are clearly labeled, and the game indicates when to use each item.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Puzzle-Solving: Players must solve a series of puzzles to progress through the game.

Exploration: The game involves exploring a spaceship room by room, each room presenting a new puzzle.

Time Pressure: Players face difficult choices under pressure, adding to the tension.

Objective: The mission is to locate a missing ship, assess the situation, and ensure the cargo reaches Earth while avoiding contamination by alien lifeforms.

Player Experience

Playing **Side Quest: Nemesis** is an immersive experience that tests creativity, perception, and open-mindedness. The game takes you through a captivating scenario with an eerie atmosphere, where the silence and unknown presence of intruders enhance the tension. The puzzles range from simple to complex, with some requiring significant mental leaps. The game includes a hint system to help when players get stuck.

Pros

Captivating Puzzles: Engaging and challenging puzzles that keep players engaged.

Immersive Scenario: The game offers an interesting and tense storyline.

Intuitive Setup: Easy to learn as you play, with no need for a traditional rulebook.

Hint System: Useful hints provided to help overcome difficult puzzles.

Cons

Player Limit: Not recommended for more than two players.

Puzzle Difficulty: Some puzzles may be too easy or require a significant mental leap.

Dependency on Hints: Players may find themselves relying heavily on the hint system.

Personal Thoughts on Side Quest: Nemesis

**Side Quest: Nemesis** is ideal for fans of puzzle games and those who enjoy immersive, story-driven experiences. It is particularly suited for solo players or couples, given its recommendation for one to two players. The game does not require prior knowledge of the Nemesis universe, making it accessible to new players. However, those familiar with the Nemesis series may appreciate the thematic consistency and the expansion of the universe through this side quest.

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