Nightmare
- Designer Phillip Tanner
- Publisher AS Company , Borras Plana S.A. , Chieftain Products , Clementoni , A Couple 'A Cowboys
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players race against time and the Gatekeeper, the game's host controlled by video. The goal is to collect six character keys and reach the Nightmare Square at the board's center. The game lasts 60 minutes; when the tape ends, the Gatekeeper wins. It combines dice rolling and movement with real-time video commands, creating unpredictable events and tense interactions.
Who Is This Game For?
Nightmare targets players aged 12 and up who enjoy horror-themed party games with multimedia integration. It is a medium-complexity game suitable for 3 to 6 players, with about 60 minutes playtime. Prior experience with real-time or dice games helps but is not required.
How It Works
The game uses dice rolling and roll/spin and move mechanics, while a video tape controls game flow and enforces a real-time ending. Players collect keys while following video instructions that introduce random effects. The first to gather all keys and reach the center wins if the tape hasn't ended.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Phillip Tanner, Nightmare is part of the Atmosfear series and one of the first board games to use video for real-time pressure. Although it has no listed awards, it is a classic in the horror party genre. The 30th Anniversary Edition (2022) updates it with streaming video and new components while preserving the original gameplay.
Pro
- Innovative board game and video integration
- Real-time mechanic creates tension
- Suitable for 3–6 players with 60-minute sessions
- Part of the well-known Atmosfear series
Contra
- Requires minimum three players
- Needs video playback or streaming capability
- Medium complexity may deter some beginners
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in a dark horror universe, players face the mysterious Gatekeeper who challenges them to a timed contest. The theme evokes spooky atmospheres inspired by horror films.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on systematically collecting keys and keep an eye on the time to avoid losing to the Gatekeeper.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Nightmare is designed for three to six players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 60 minutes, as it uses real-time video sequences for game progression.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic knowledge of dice games and an interest in real-time mechanics are helpful but not mandatory.
How does this compare to similar games?
As part of the Atmosfear series, Nightmare uniquely combines board game mechanics with video control, unlike pure board or video games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its horror theme and medium complexity, it's better suited for teenagers 12+ and adults rather than young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The real-time game ending controlled by video sequences (Elapsed Real Time Ending) combined with dice rolling and movement is unique.
Fazit
Nightmare is an innovative hybrid for horror and party game fans who appreciate real-time video integration with dice and movement. Best played with at least three players.
