The Awful Green Things From Outer Space (1979) Board Game

Originally released in 1979, The Awful Green Things From Outer Space is a science fiction wargame designed by Tom Wham. It has become a cult classic among board gamers for its unique theme and gameplay mechanics. Players take on the roles of the crew members of a spaceship trying to rid their ship of the Awful Green Things that have infested it.

Game Components of The Awful Green Things From Outer Space

Game board

Crew member tokens

Awful Green Things tokens

Weapon cards

Rulebook

How To Setup The Awful Green Things From Outer Space

To set up the game, one player takes on the role of the crew of the starship Znutar, while the other player controls the Awful Green Things. The crew members are placed on the ship’s board, and the Awful Green Things start in designated areas. Each player receives their respective tokens and any starting equipment or cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Asymmetrical Gameplay: One player controls the crew, and the other controls the Awful Green Things.

Token Movement: Crew members and Awful Green Things move around the ship.

Combat Mechanics: Crew members use weapons to fight the Awful Green Things, which multiply and grow if they consume crew members.

Objective:
– Crew: Survive and eliminate the Awful Green Things.
– Awful Green Things: Multiply, consume crew members, and overwhelm the ship.

Player Experience

This game offers a unique and engaging experience due to its asymmetrical design. The player controlling the Awful Green Things focuses on strategy to multiply and outmaneuver the crew, while the crew player must use their resources efficiently to survive. The game’s humor and quirky theme add to its charm.

Pros

Unique Asymmetrical Gameplay: Offers different strategies and playstyles for each side.

Simple yet Engaging Mechanics: Easy to learn, but challenging to master.

Humorous Theme: Adds a fun and light-hearted element to the game.

Cons

Limited Replayability: The game is designed for two players and has a specific scenario, which might limit replayability.

Outdated Components: The original version may have outdated components compared to modern games.

Personal Thoughts on The Awful Green Things From Outer Space

This game is ideal for those who enjoy asymmetrical gameplay and are looking for a light-hearted, yet strategic experience. It is particularly suited for fans of science fiction and those who appreciate unique game mechanics. While it may not be as complex as some modern board games, its quirky charm and ease of play make it a fun addition to any board game collection.

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