Berserker (1982)

About this game

"Ugly" John Carver shares development credit with Michael Stackpole. From the box: A tactical space conflict game based on the novels and stories by Fred Saberhagen. Berserkers, the fearsome robotic dreadnoughts of space, race towards Earth in their attempt to destroy the birthplace of mankind. Fighting against extinction is a hastily gathered force of human ships. Cruisers and C-plus guns batter the Berserkers from afar, while Earth's only hope - the ram ships - swarm like killer bees. Inside the ram ships huddle the marines who must board the Berserker and destroy it from within... Berserker is an easy and thrilling game of the human struggle for survival against Berserkers. Optional rules cover Earth Shadow, Veterans, Prisoners, and a lengthy campaign game. COMPLEXITY: fairly easy to intermediate level

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 2.2/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 12 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.