Space Hulk (Second Edition)

Games Workshop Ltd. · Board game · 1996
8.4 Ludopedia 7.5 BGG 2 · best 2 90 min Weight 2.7/5
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8.4 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you love tense tactical duels and have a partner ready for the challenge, Space Hulk delivers. It's like a sci-fi horror movie where every move matters.

Highlights
  • Oppressive, immersive atmosphere
  • Tactical combat full of tough choices
  • Iconic, highly detailed miniatures
  • Multiple missions with varied objectives
Keep in mind
  • Can feel frustrating if you dislike randomness
  • Two-player only
  • Requires translation if you don't know English
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Space Hulk is a tactical combat game that pits powerful Space Marines against hordes of Genestealers in derelict spaceships. Each match is an intense battle where players use action points to move units, attack, and complete specific objectives. The Marines have limited resources, while Genestealers seem to spawn endlessly, creating constant tension. The second edition brought significant changes, like removing the sand timer and adding specialized dice for combat and weapon jams. With 18 missions total (6 from the first edition and 12 new ones), the game offers variety and fresh challenges every time. The atmosphere is heavy, with every decision feeling like it could mean the difference between victory and death.

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 BEST

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Game: Space Hulk Players: Two-Player Only Games Setting: Warhammer 40,000 Board Games
Publisher Games Workshop Ltd.
Designer Andy Chambers, Andy Jones, Chris Colston, Dean Bass, Jervis Johnson, Paul Murphy, Richard Halliwell
Artist David Gallagher, Geoff Taylor, Mark Gibbons, Richard Wright, Wayne England

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,170owners
84wishlist
50want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How many players?
Only 2 (one controls Space Marines, the other Genestealers).
How long does a game take?
About 90 minutes, but varies by mission and player experience.
Do miniatures need painting?
No, but painting adds extra charm and immersion.
Is it hard to learn?
Medium learning curve - rules aren't complex, but mastering strategy takes time.
Worth it if I own 1st edition?
Yes, for new missions and refined mechanics, but not essential.
Language dependent?
Yes, it's in English, but you can play with a translated reference sheet.

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