The Creature That Ate Sheboygan
- Designer Greg Costikyan
- Publisher Encore , Hobby Japan , Kokusai-Tsushin Co., Ltd. (国際通信社) , Simpubs Ltd. (SPUK) , SPI (Simulations Publications, Inc.)
- Illustration Redmond Aksel Simonsen , Charles Vess
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In this game, you control a monster trying to devastate the city of Sheboygan while your opponent evacuates civilians and deploys police and army forces. It uses Area Movement, Dice Rolling, and Line of Sight mechanics on a grid to create tactical battles. The interplay between monster destruction and defensive tactics creates an intense two-player duel.
Who Is This Game For?
This game is aimed at experienced players and wargame enthusiasts aged 10 and up who enjoy strategic duels. With a playtime around 90 minutes, it suits those willing to engage in a medium-length two-player game. Basic knowledge of tactical movement and dice mechanics is beneficial but not mandatory.
How It Works
Players move monsters and defenders using Area and Grid Movement on a board. Combat outcomes are resolved through Dice Rolling combined with a Combat Results Table. Line of Sight affects attack ranges, and scenario-based play structures the game flow. The goal is to either destroy as much of Sheboygan as the monster or to save the city as defenders.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Greg Costikyan, the game won the 1979 Charles S. Roberts Award for Best Fantasy or Science-Fiction Board Game. It’s a classic two-player wargame with a monster theme that inspired many imitators. Its mix of Area Movement and Dice Rolling remains distinctive in the genre.
Awards
- 1979 Charles S. Roberts Best Fantasy or Science-Fiction Board Game — Winner
Pro
- Classic sci-fi wargame with monster theme
- Winner of the 1979 Charles S. Roberts Award
- Tactical depth through Area Movement and Line of Sight
- Exciting duel between monster and defenders
Contra
- Only suitable for two players
- About 90 minutes playtime requires patience
- Rules can be complex for beginners
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the fictional American city of Sheboygan, the game features a giant monster causing destruction amidst a science fiction backdrop. The theme blends monster movie atmosphere with military tactics.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on learning the movement and combat systems before exploring complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, The Creature That Ate Sheboygan is designed exclusively for two players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, though this can vary with experience.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic familiarity with tactical wargames and dice mechanics helps but is not required.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely combines classic monster themes with tactical wargaming and won a notable industry award in 1979.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 10 and moderate complexity, it is better suited for experienced players than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its distinctive use of Area Movement, Dice Rolling, and Line of Sight within a monster scenario stands out.
Fazit
The Creature That Ate Sheboygan is a solid tactical wargame for two players with a science fiction theme. It’s recommended for fans of classic monster duels and those seeking a strategic, varied board game experience.
