ISS Vanguard

ISS Vanguard is a truly captivating cooperative campaign board game that throws you into a sci-fi adventure unlike any other. You take on the roles of four distinct crew sections – security, recon, science, and engineering – aboard the first human vessel capable of reaching outer space. The campaign is masterfully crafted by Krzysztof Piskorski, known for his work on Tainted Grail, and it's brimming with tough choices, surprising twists, and branching storylines that keep you on the edge of your seat.

The gameplay is divided into two phases: Ship Management and Planetary Exploration. In the Ship Management phase, you navigate a massive binder filled with printed sleeves, making strategic decisions about your ship's destination, research, equipment production, crew recruitment, and resolving various situations. This phase allows you to plan your course through the unknown galaxy while chasing the mysteries encoded in human DNA.

The Planetary Exploration phase shifts the focus to tactical gameplay. You make critical decisions about which cards, dice, crew members, and equipment to bring on your daring landing missions, all while facing a ticking clock as your supplies dwindle. The game's narrative system, driven by a web of interconnected Mission Logs, offers a rich tapestry of gameplay choices, story information, and progress tracking throughout the universe. The variety of specialised Landers and the ability to outfit them for perilous descents into the atmospheres (or lack thereof) of different planets adds an exciting layer of depth to the game.

While the game can be enjoyed solo, I found the experience even more engaging when playing with others. It definitely requires a bit of time to master the rules, and the game is designed to be challenging, but the rewards for your perseverance are immense. The artwork and components are exceptional, adding to the immersive quality of the branching storyline. I highly recommend the Kickstarter edition, Personnel files, and Pets if you can find them.

If you're looking for a cooperative game that offers a unique blend of strategic planning and tactical decision-making in a richly immersive sci-fi setting, ISS Vanguard is a must-have. Just be prepared for a journey that's full of tough choices and rewarding experiences.