How to Play Outbreak: Cold War?
Outbreak: Cold War is a cooperative board game designed for 1-4 players, where players take on the roles of scientists and operatives working together to contain and eradicate a deadly virus outbreak. In this article, we’ll guide you through the rules and strategies to play Outbreak: Cold War effectively.
Objective
The objective of the game is to prevent the spread of the virus and eliminate it before it’s too late. Each player has a unique role with different abilities and strengths, and together, they must work to contain the outbreak, gather resources, and find a cure.
Setup
Before starting the game, each player chooses a role card, which outlines their abilities and strengths. The game board features a map of the city, with various locations such as hospitals, research centers, and streets. Each player starts with a set of character cards, which represent their starting equipment and resources.
Gameplay
A typical game of Outbreak: Cold War consists of rounds, with each round representing a day in the game. Here’s a breakdown of the gameplay:
Turn Structure
Each player’s turn consists of three phases:
- Action Phase: Players take individual turns performing actions, such as moving, researching, or treating infected.
- Event Phase: The game’s event deck is drawn, revealing an event card that affects all players. Events can be beneficial or detrimental, and players must adapt to the changing situation.
- Cleanup Phase: Players discard any used resources and equipment, and the next player’s turn begins.
Actions
Players can perform various actions during their turn, including:
• Move: Move their character to a adjacent location on the board.
• Research: Draw a research card, which may provide benefits, resources, or new equipment.
• Treat Infected: Treat infected characters in the current location, removing them from the game.
• Gather Resources: Gather resources, such as medicine, equipment, or personnel, from the current location.
• Use Equipment: Use equipment cards to perform special actions, such as treating multiple infected or moving extra spaces.
Infection and Containment
The game features an infection mechanic, where infected characters can spread the virus to other players. Infected characters are marked with a red token and can only be treated by players with the correct equipment. Players must work together to contain the outbreak by treating infected characters and removing them from the game.
Cure
The game features a cure mechanic, where players can work together to find a cure for the virus. Cure tokens are earned by completing research cards or treating infected characters. When a player earns a set amount of cure tokens, they can use them to cure the virus, ending the game.
Strategies and Tips
Here are some strategies and tips to help you play Outbreak: Cold War effectively:
• Work together: Outbreak: Cold War is a cooperative game, so communication and teamwork are essential. Share resources, coordinate actions, and work together to contain the outbreak.
• Manage resources: Resources are limited, so prioritize actions and use resources wisely. Focus on treating infected characters, gathering resources, and researching new equipment.
• Use equipment strategically: Equipment cards can be game-changers, but use them strategically. Focus on treating infected characters, moving extra spaces, or gathering resources.
• Pay attention to events: Events can greatly impact the game, so pay attention to the event deck and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Keep an eye on the infection tracker: The infection tracker shows the number of infected characters in the game. Keep an eye on it and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Conclusion
Outbreak: Cold War is a challenging and exciting cooperative board game that requires strategy, teamwork, and adaptability. By understanding the rules and mechanics, you can work together with your fellow players to contain the outbreak and find a cure. Remember to communicate, manage resources, and use equipment strategically to increase your chances of success. With practice and experience, you’ll become a pro at playing Outbreak: Cold War!
