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UFO: Game of Close Encounters (1976) Board Game

ByMichail

UFO: Game of Close Encounters is a classic board game released in in 1976. Designed by Tom Dalgliesh and published by The Avalon Hill Game Co, it falls under the science fiction and wargame categories. The game is designed for 2 players, with a runtime of around 30 minutes, and is suitable for players aged 12 and above.

Game Components of UFO: Game of Close Encounters

  • Game board
  • 8 UFO ships
  • 8 Earth rockets
  • Rulebook
  • Various counters and markers

    How To Setup UFO: Game of Close Encounters

    To set up the game, the Earth player places their eight rockets on the board, while the alien player prepares their eight UFO ships. The board is divided into sectors where the UFOs can land and the rockets can be deployed. Players follow the rulebook to ensure all components are correctly positioned before starting the game.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Objective for Alien Player:** Land 5 out of the 8 available UFO ships on Earth.
  • Objective for Earth Player:** Defend Earth using only eight rockets.
  • Mechanics:**
    – Area control: Players compete to control sectors on the board.
    – Resource management: Earth player must manage limited rockets.
    – Strategic placement: Both players need to strategically place their units.

    Player Experience

    Playing UFO: Game of Close Encounters is a tense and strategic experience. The Earth player must carefully allocate their limited resources to defend against the alien invasion, while the alien player needs to navigate and land their ships effectively. The game requires foresight and tactical thinking, making each match engaging and challenging.

    Pros

  • Strategic Depth:** The game offers deep strategic gameplay despite its simple rules.
  • Tense Gameplay:** The limited resources and high stakes create a tense and exciting experience.
  • Retro Charm:** The game’s vintage design and theme can be appealing to collectors and fans of classic board games.

    Cons

  • Limited Replayability:** With only two players and a fixed set of rules, the game may lack replayability for some players.
  • Outdated Mechanics:** Some modern gamers might find the mechanics too simplistic compared to contemporary games.
  • Availability:** The game is vintage and may be hard to find or purchase.

    Personal Thoughts on UFO: Game of Close Encounters

    UFO: Game of Close Encounters is ideal for fans of vintage board games and those who enjoy simple yet strategic gameplay. It’s a great addition to any collection of classic wargames and can offer a unique gaming experience for those looking for something different from modern games. However, it may not appeal to players seeking complex rules or high replayability.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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