In Nemesis, you and your fellow crew mates are locked in a ship in deep space with a dangerous alien species on board. It’s a board game with incredibly exciting gameplay, fun narrative choices, and more than a few tense moments. However, there’s so much more to this top-rated tabletop title than its base game. In this guide, we’re reviewing all the available Nemesis editions and expansions to help you and your group get the best survival horror experience.
Where to Start: Nemesis Base Game
If you're eager to delve into the intense world of Nemesis, your journey can begin with either the original base game or Nemesis Lockdown. Both games are standalone and utilize many of the same mechanics, ensuring a thrilling experience no matter your choice. The classic Nemesis may be slightly less complex, making it an easier narrative to grasp as you embark on your mission to find Earth. Each game is filled with rich atmosphere, detailed miniatures, and personal objectives that can lead to unexpected betrayals among friends.
Exploring Nemesis Lockdown
Nemesis Lockdown offers a fresh stand-alone experience set in a hidden base on Mars. Here, players encounter the Night Stalkers, a new alien species that introduces a light and dark gameplay mechanic not found in the original. With enhanced computers and additional escape routes, players can strategize their survival more effectively. The endgame mechanics shift from coordinate cards to contingency plans, and moving characters quietly becomes easier. Whether you choose Lockdown or the original Nemesis, both options provide a thrilling experience, and combining characters from both games can enhance your gameplay even further.
Nemesis Board Game Expansions
After you have selected either the original base game or Lockdown, you can elevate your gaming experience with various expansions. These expansions can be mixed and matched with either game; however, if you own Nemesis: Lockdown but not the original, it's best to prioritize the Stretch Goals expansion first. This expansion enhances your gameplay options and integrates well with the core mechanics of Lockdown.
Nemesis Lockdown Stretch Goals Expansion
One of the most exciting expansions is the Nemesis Lockdown Stretch Goals, which introduces the Chytrids, a new alien threat that offers different mechanics compared to the Night Stalkers. If you have Lockdown but not the original Nemesis, this expansion is essential, as it includes new cards that make the classic game’s expansions compatible with Lockdown. If you only have the base game, you have the flexibility to explore any of the other main expansions first.
Nemesis Aftermath Expansion
The Nemesis Aftermath expansion introduces five new characters, a shuttle board addition, and an epilogue game mode. This epilogue adds roughly an hour to your gaming session and allows players to switch to a different character whose mission is to uncover the mysteries of the ship. This feature is particularly beneficial for players who may have been eliminated early, as it brings them back into the action.
Nemesis Carnomorph Expansion
In the Carnomorph expansion, players face a brand-new monster that takes the place of the intruders from the base game. The expansion includes new event cards and focuses on themes of mutation and DNA absorption. While it may seem harmless at first, the Carnomorph can evolve into something far more dangerous, adding a thrilling layer of suspense to your gameplay. The new miniatures, including the Flesh Beast and Butcher, are also satisfying to paint and play with!
Nemesis Void Seeders Expansion
The Void Seeders expansion introduces a new layer of strategy as players must manage their character's sanity alongside their health. The Void Seeders can infect both the mind and body, adding a unique challenge to the game. While the amount of combat is slightly reduced compared to the Carnomorph expansion, players will have to contend with the new panic deck, which introduces additional obstacles and surprises.
Nemesis Terrain Expansion
If you’re a fan of the miniatures in Nemesis and want to elevate the visual appeal of your game, the Terrain Expansion is an excellent choice. This expansion does not introduce new mechanics but replaces various cardboard components with more durable plastic pieces. If you frequently play Nemesis or enjoy collecting miniatures, this expansion will certainly enhance your gaming experience.
Nemesis Kings Miniatures
For those who have already collected all the main expansions and wish to complete their collection, the Nemesis Kings pack is a must-have. This pack includes five new figures that replace the intruders from the base game, Void Seeder, and Carnomorph king and queen. Additionally, it comes with matching art cards for each new miniature, making it a fantastic collector's item.
Nemesis Space Cats Miniatures
For a fun twist on gameplay, the Space Cats Miniatures kit replaces some aliens with adorable cats, providing a lighthearted upgrade to the game. While this upgrade isn't essential for enjoying Nemesis, it brings a whimsical element to your gaming sessions. Like the Kings pack, it includes unique art cards, making it perfect for collectors. There’s even a Lockdown Space Cats miniatures add-on for fans of that version!
Key Takeaways
What You Will Learn
- Discover the differences between the original Nemesis and Nemesis Lockdown.
- Understand which expansions to prioritize based on your game collection.
- Explore new characters, mechanics, and gameplay strategies introduced in each expansion.
- Learn how to enhance your game visually with the Terrain Expansion and unique miniature packs.
As you navigate the universe of Nemesis, remember that each edition and expansion offers unique gameplay experiences. Whether you're strategizing against alien threats or enjoying the art of miniature collecting, there's always something new to explore in this thrilling board game.
