⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I'll be honest, when boardgaming geeks talk about the stories those games tell, I'm often unable to identify with their enthusiasm. This is probably because I lack some skill: I'm too busy trying not to make a fool of myself to notice any emerging narratives. Escape the Kronos is different. This rogue-like card game finally made it click how a game I strive to win can also take me on a journey.
Trying to escape a space ship that is being attacked by a xenomorph-like monster is a win or lose situation, but it's also a plot. You'll try and survive the ship, even as it catches on fire, long enough to get your exit in order. It won't be easy. The monster is gaining on you, nothing will deter it forever.
Materially, you are manipulating two hands full of cards. Each represents a different part of the story, and one after the other, they'll travel to the front of the order, where you'll have to deal with them. The monster, too, travels through your hand. You'll see it get closer and closer, and while you can manipulate the order of the cards to delay and divert it, it will never stop coming.
Unless, of course, you manage to escape.
If Michael does give this game the crowdfunding treatment, I'll be at the front of the line to get my hand of cards.