Specter Ops: Broken Covenant (2018) Board Game

Specter Ops: Broken Covenant is a standalone expansion for the original Specter Ops game, designed by Emerson Matsuuchi and published by Plaid Hat Games in in 2018. This game takes place in a dystopian future where players take on the roles of either the A.R.K. agents or the Raxxon hunters, engaging in a cat-and-mouse game of deduction and hidden movement.

Game Components of Specter Ops: Broken Covenant

1 game board

1 pad of movement sheets

5 hunter figures

4 secret role cards

4 agent character cards

8 hunter character cards

1 sand timer

Various equipment cards and mission objectives.

How To Setup Specter Ops: Broken Covenant

To set up the game, players first prepare the board by placing the Raxxon facility tiles and the mission objectives. The A.R.K. agent chooses their character card and equipment, while the Raxxon hunters select their hunter figures and character cards. Each player receives the necessary role cards and movement sheets. The game is ready to start once all components are distributed and the board is configured according to the chosen mission.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Stealth and Deduction: The A.R.K. agent moves secretly, marking their movements only when they come into a hunter’s line of sight.

Hunter Movement: Raxxon hunters move every turn, using a vehicle to detect the A.R.K. agent’s motion.

Combat: Hunters can damage the A.R.K. agent when they are in line of sight.

Mission Objectives: The A.R.K. agent must collect three out of four mission targets and escape the facility without losing all life points to win.

Character Abilities: Both agents and hunters have unique skills and tools to aid in their objectives.

Player Experience

In **Specter Ops: Broken Covenant**, players are immersed in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. The A.R.K. agent must use strategic planning and stealth to evade the genetically enhanced Raxxon hunters, who employ their special abilities and coordination to track down the intruder. The game requires careful movement planning, deduction, and timely use of special abilities, making it engaging and challenging for both sides.

Pros

Engaging Stealth Mechanics: The game’s focus on stealth and deduction creates a thrilling experience.

Multiple Playable Characters: Four agents and eight hunters offer a variety of strategies and playstyles.

Streamlined Rules: Easy to learn for new players, yet deep enough for veterans.

High-Quality Components: Includes detailed miniatures and well-designed game pieces.

Cons

Complex Setup: Preparing the game board and distributing components can be time-consuming.

Imbalanced Games: Some players may find that the hunters have an advantage over the lone agent, leading to imbalanced gameplay.

Limited Replayability: While there are multiple characters, the core gameplay remains relatively consistent, which might reduce replay value for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Specter Ops: Broken Covenant

**Specter Ops: Broken Covenant** is for gamers who enjoy strategic, high-tension games with a strong focus on stealth and deduction. It is ideal for groups of 2-5 players looking for a challenging and immersive experience. The game’s balanced blend of strategy and luck makes it appealing to both veteran gamers and newcomers to the board game community. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking a light, casual gaming experience due to its complexity and setup time.

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