Every few years we get the chance to revisit this game and every time we have a blast, discover new tactics and piss each other off all over again. Zombies!!! is the perfect example that less is more. Get to da choppa!
What is Zombies!!! the boardgame?
Zombies!!! is a horror-themed board game first published in 2001 by Twilight Creations, Inc. It’s a survival horror game where players attempt to escape a town overrun by zombies.
In Zombies!!!, players navigate through a modular game board, which represents the town, encountering various obstacles, events, and of course, zombies. The objective typically involves reaching a specific location, such as the helipad, or being the first to kill a certain number of zombies.
Players use cards to manipulate the game, such as laying down new map tiles, spawning zombies, or playing weapons and items to aid their survival. The game incorporates elements of luck and strategy, as players must decide when to fight zombies, when to run, and when to use their resources wisely.
The game has spawned numerous expansions, adding new scenarios, characters, and gameplay mechanics. It has gained popularity for its simple mechanics, thematic elements, and cooperative or competitive gameplay options, depending on the variant being played.
Objective: The main objective of “Zombies!!!” is to be the first player to reach the helipad and escape the city, or alternatively, to be the last player standing after killing a certain number of zombies. The standard goal is to kill 25 zombies or reach the helipad first .
Gameplay: Players move through a modular board representing the city, which is built as the game progresses by placing new tiles. Each tile represents a different city location and can include buildings, streets, and other areas. Players collect supplies and weapons while facing off against zombies that spawn throughout the city.
Components: The game includes:
- Map tiles that form the city layout.
- Plastic zombie miniatures.
- Player figures.
- Life and bullet tokens.
- Event cards that can be used to help oneself or hinder other players .
Game Mechanics: Players take turns drawing and placing map tiles, moving their figures, fighting zombies, and playing event cards. Combat is resolved using a simple dice roll mechanic. Event cards can provide various effects, such as bonuses in combat or obstacles for other players .
Expansions and Variants: “Zombies!!!” has numerous expansions and spin-offs that add new tiles, cards, rules, and scenarios, enhancing replayability and introducing new challenges. Some expansions include “Zombies!!! 2: Zombie Corps(e)”, “Zombies!!! 3: Mall Walkers”, and “Zombies!!! 4: The End” .
Reception: The game is well-received for its straightforward rules, fun theme, and replayability. It has become a staple in many board game collections, particularly among fans of the zombie genre .
