They Live: The Card Game – Save The City/Enslave The City (2023) Board Game

They Live is a cult classic science fiction movie from the 1980s directed by John Carpenter. The movie follows a man who discovers that aliens are controlling society by using subliminal messages. The card game adaptation, “They Live: The Card Game,” brings this theme to life in a tabletop setting, where players must either save the city from alien control or help the aliens enslave it.

Game Components of They Live: The Card Game – Save The City/Enslave The City

City cards: Represent different areas of the city to capture.

Resource cards: Necessary for various actions and strategies.

Invader cards: Hidden enemies that players must expose.

Character cards: Each with unique abilities and strengths.

Action cards: Used to perform specific actions during the game.

How To Setup They Live: The Card Game – Save The City/Enslave The City

To set up the game, players first shuffle and deal the character cards, ensuring each player has a unique role. The city cards are then laid out to form the city map. Resource and action cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. Invader cards are secretly distributed among some players, who must keep their roles hidden.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Resource Management: Gather and use resources to perform actions.

Area Control: Capture and control different areas of the city.

Hidden Roles: Some players are Invaders, while others are City defenders.

Objective:

Defenders: Expose and eliminate the hidden Invaders to save the city.

Invaders: Act human, collect city cards, and enslave the city without being exposed.

Player Experience

Playing “They Live: The Card Game” is an engaging and suspenseful experience. Defenders must be vigilant and work together to uncover the hidden Invaders, while Invaders need to blend in and manipulate resources without arousing suspicion. The game fosters teamwork, deduction, and strategic thinking.

Pros

Engaging Theme: Faithfully adapts the cult classic movie.

High Replayability: Different character abilities and random Invader distribution ensure unique games.

Social Interaction: Encourages teamwork and deduction among players.

Quick Games: Fast-paced gameplay with typical playtime suitable for casual gaming sessions.

Cons

Complexity: May require several plays to fully understand all mechanics and strategies.

Role Reveal: Some players might find the hidden role aspect stressful or frustrating if not managed well.

Limited Player Count Flexibility: Designed specifically for 3-6 players, which might limit its appeal for smaller or larger groups.

Personal Thoughts on They Live: The Card Game – Save The City/Enslave The City

This game is perfect for fans of the movie and those who enjoy hidden role and area control games. It’s ideal for gaming groups of 3-6 players who appreciate a mix of strategy, teamwork, and social deduction. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking simple, introductory games or those who prefer games with a wider player count range.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.