Survival / The Barbarian
- Designer Ian Livingstone , Bob McWilliams
- Publisher Task Force Games
- Illustration Alvin Belflower , Bob McWilliams
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
This package contains two complete games: Survival! is a sci-fi solitaire game where you play Jardine, a crashed scout fighting vicious animals to reach safety. The Barbarian is a fantasy game for one or two players, where you quest as Vaarn to find a lost magical sword and shield. Both games combine dice rolling, hex grid movement, and simulation elements.
Who Is This Game For?
Survival / The Barbarian targets adventure and fantasy fans aged 8 and up. It fits as a family or light hobby game with a short playtime of about 30 minutes. Prior experience with dice and movement mechanics is helpful but not required.
How It Works
The core mechanics include Dice Rolling, Grid Movement on a Hexagon Grid, and Movement Points. Survival! uses these to simulate journeys and combat with dice determining outcomes. The Barbarian focuses on exploration and searching using movement points on a hex grid. Both games support solo play, and Survival! can be played by up to six players.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Ian Livingstone and Bob McWilliams, this set uniquely combines two thematically distinct games. Though it lacks awards, its release as a Task Force Games Pocket Game and connection to White Dwarf magazine add to its significance. The mix of sci-fi and fantasy themes plus solo modes enhances its uniqueness.
Pro
- Two complete games in one package with different themes
- Solo mode plus multiplayer for up to 6 players
- Combination of dice rolling and hex grid movement
- Short playtime around 30 minutes
Contra
- No notable awards
- Relatively simple mechanics for experienced gamers
- Limited player count for The Barbarian (1-2 players)
Setting & Atmosphäre
Survival is set in a sci-fi world where a scout struggles to survive after a crash. The Barbarian takes place in a fantasy realm where a barbarian searches for a magical treasure.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding movement and dice mechanics to improve gameplay flow.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Survival / The Barbarian includes a solo mode, with Survival! designed especially for solo play.
How long does a game really take?
Playing time is about 30 minutes, allowing for quick game sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic familiarity with dice and movement mechanics helps but is not mandatory.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its unique feature is combining two independent games with different themes in one set.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, suitable from age 8 with a short duration, though the rules have some complexity.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Dice Rolling with Hexagon Grid Movement and simulation elements defines the gameplay.
Fazit
Survival / The Barbarian is great for players seeking short thematic adventures with solo options. The dual-game package offers variety but requires some patience for the different rules.
