Instructions Ex Machina

Objective of the Game

Ex Machina is a cooperative strategy game where players must work together to defeat a powerful artificial intelligence (AI) before it takes control over humanity. Players have different roles and abilities that they must strategically use to win.

Game Setup

1. Game Board: Place the game board in the center of the table.
2. Role Cards: Each player draws a role card that determines their special abilities and tasks in the game.
3. Draw Deck: Shuffle the draw deck consisting of event and resource cards. Place it facedown next to the game board.
4. AI Track: Place the marker on the starting point of the AI Track on the game board.
5. Resources: Distribute the starting resources according to the instructions on the role cards.

Gameplay

The game proceeds in rounds, each consisting of the following phases:

1. Planning Phase:
2. Players discuss their strategy and how best to use their abilities.

3. Gather and prioritize resources to minimize AI threats.

4. Action Phase:

5. Each player takes one action per round, such as gathering resources, using a special ability, or deploying tactical cards.

6. Players can also trade resources with teammates.

7. Event Phase:

8. Draw an event card from the event deck and follow its instructions. These events often alter the game flow and may present new challenges or opportunities.

9. AI Phase:

10. The AI advances. Move the marker forward on the AI Track.
11. Specific points on the track trigger additional threatening AI abilities, which must be managed at all costs.

Key Features

• Cooperation: Successful play requires a lot of communication and coordination among players, as challenges can usually only be solved as a team.
• Special Abilities: Each role has unique abilities. Use them strategically, for example, to slow down the AI's progress or generate additional resources.
• Resource Management: Think ahead about resources to avoid being caught off guard by random events.

Winning Conditions

Players win if they manage to defeat the AI, typically by reaching a certain point on the AI Track before the AI gains full control.

Should the AI achieve full control, the players collectively lose.

Strategic Tips

• Focus on Communication: Ensure every player knows their role and abilities and frequently discusses possible strategies with the group.
• Optimal Resource Use: Deliberate what's immediately necessary and what might be important for later rounds.
• Keep an Eye on Events: Be prepared for the random elements, as poor planning can quickly lead to insurmountable situations.

Ex Machina offers intense cooperative challenges, requiring intelligent planning and teamwork to emerge victoriously.