Gremlins, Inc. PC

Combining board and card games elements, Gremlins, Inc. is a turn-based strategy game set in a steampunk world. The game is developed by a Latvian studio – Charlie Oscar – with Aleksiej Bukolew – the creator of warmly received strategy game Eador: Genesis – in charge.

Plot

The action is set in a corrupted, capitalistic world where the titular Gremlins fight over money, political influences, and prestige. Even though the title brings to mind the comedy horror series, the game has nothing to do with Joe Dante’s works, so you will not meet famous Gizmo and his wild pals.

Mechanics

The game offers a playing field and 150 different cards. Your main objective is to outdo your opponents by your own, unique strategy and effective spoiling of their intentions. During the game you can collect or steal resources, take part in elections, offer and accept bribes, play in casinos, set traps, and frame your opponents in order to exclude them from play for a period of time by throwing them into jail. Gameplay depends on three elements: locations, cards you own, and luck. You can choose one of twelve characters, who are of course gremlins, and each of them has a different specialty and style. Gremlins, Inc. introduces such characters as a tradesman, a banker, a gatherer, a condemned, an engineer, a manager, a gambler, a secret agent, a beggar, a bureaucrat, a politician, and a thief. Each session normally lasts from 30 minutes up to one hour.

Game modes

Like most of board games, Gremlins, Inc. is intended for multiplayer. The game allows up to six users to play at the same time. You can be on your own or team up with other players – 2vs.2, 3vs.3, and even 2vs.2vs.2. Such options give a chance to implement different strategies exercised by each of your teammate. The game is complemented with a ranking ladder which takes into account players on a given server. This ladder allows you to throw down a challenge to players much higher in the ranking than you are.

Technical aspects

On the technical side, Gremlins, Inc. features a high level of graphics similar to that seen in many digital board games. The game has a steampunk atmosphere seasoned with a large dose of humour.

Additional information

Even though Gremlins, Inc. was designed as a digital board game since the very beginning, creators from Charlie Oscar have also prepared a paper version of the game, turning it into a classic card game intended for 2-6 players. Each session should also last from 30 to 180 minutes.

Last updated on 31 August 2015