One Against the Dead

(Web published) · Board game · 2007
1 · best 1 Solo 20 min Weight 1.3/5
rating Ludopedia
6.0 rating BGG
Buy
rating Ludopedia
6.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you love solo tension and zombies, you’ll enjoy One Against the Dead’s speed and replay value.

Highlights
  • Simple components, easy to find
  • Quick 20‑minute games
  • High replayability
Keep in mind
  • Very low learning curve
  • Relies on standard deck
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
One Against the Dead is a solo game that turns your tabletop into a zombie‑infested city using only ordinary playing cards, the kind you probably have lying around. Each turn you place a card, revealing a new section of the ruined metropolis. The placement determines how many zombies appear, which routes become impassable, where useful weapons show up, and which desperate survivors need rescuing. All of these factors are dictated by the layout, turning each playthrough into a tactical puzzle.

Your goal is straightforward: escape the city before the ever‑growing horde blocks you in. To do that you have a limited pool of action points each round, which you can spend to move, attack, or search for gear. Dice are rolled whenever combat occurs or when you try to use a weapon, adding a splash of luck to the planning. The modular board—built from the cards you lay down—ensures no two games are alike, and the tile‑placement mechanic forces you to think about routes, safe zones, and exit points.

At roughly 20 minutes per game, with minimal components and simple rules, One Against the Dead is perfect for a quick, tense, thematic challenge without opening a big box. The learning curve is shallow, yet strategic depth emerges if you start optimizing card sequences and action‑point management. Ideal for autumn evenings, solo sessions between friends, or anyone who loves horror and zombie games in a compact format.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 BEST
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Game details

Families

Components: Traditional Playing Cards Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Players: Solitaire Only Card Games
Publisher (Web published)
Designer Scott Slomiany
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play?
It is a solo game designed for a single player.
How long does a game take?
Around 20 minutes, depending on your pace.
What is the complexity level?
Low – the rules are simple and quick to learn.
What components are required?
Just a standard deck of playing cards; you can also print the PDFs if you prefer.
Who is this game for?
Fans of horror, zombies, and solo games looking for a fast, tense experience.
Do I need to buy extra material?
No, you can play with cards you already have at home.
Are there expansions or variants?
Currently there are no official expansions; replayability comes from the core system itself.