Nemesis

Big box games are often enticing, but few deliver on the the promised experience to the extent that Nemesis does. Firstly it does this with style - it is a very pretty game - the most obvious element of which are the miniatures included, from the diminutive player character models, through to the towering (and horrific) Intruder Queen . Even in the base grey plastic these are very detailed and enhance the immersion considerably. Each player takes on a character type, ultimately trying to survive the Intruder presence on your ship by working to achieve various win conditions. The game shines in the various factors that influence how you can accomplish or fail these goals: the ship map is randomized every game, where the ship is headed, the state of the engines, the Intruders you encounter, the character you play, the equipment you discover - all are randomized during every playthrough, providing tons of replayability. And then you need to factor in how your friends round the table choose to play their characters! The game can be played fully coop (a good intro to the mechanics and rules) or semi coop where Nemesis truly shines as you can no longer trust your fellow shipmates to have your best interests at heart, usually with terminal consequences! No mistake this game is difficult to win, but it is better game because of the challenge. Plus the difficulty is not the result of overly complex rules (in fact the core mechanics are relatively straightforward) but because the player opposite or next to you may be actively trying to bring about your end. This itself is difficult to know for certain as players may have to work subtly as they are not able to directly attack one another. The challenge this presents brings new uncertainties into every game. This can absolutely be frustrating, but is always engaging as you're never simply 'waiting' for your turn - you're studying what the others are doing, trying to work out their motivations, whether you can anticipate what they are trying to achieve and how best to stay one step ahead of them. As you play through Nemesis you quickly come to realize that 'nemesis' may not just refer to the Intruder lurking in the ductwork, but also the 'helpful' player that told you the next room was safe... The interplay around the table make Nemesis endlessly replayable and enjoyable. I would suggest Nemesis as one of my favorite games as it is always guaranteed to entertain.

Best game you'll ever play

In terms of setting, story and atmosphere this game is Aliens in everything but name. Whilst all players share a common goal of needing to survive to win, each player's personal objectives set up this wonderful layer of distrust. But be warned the game is hard, and can really quickly spiral out of control through little fault of the players. A couple of unfavourable turns can flip manageable game to an instant loss. It makes the victories all the sweeter mind. This game isn't hugely complicated once you know how to play, it's just difficult to win.

Great game great service.

Its like playing allien!