Objective:

• To gain the most influence in the Wasteland by completing quests, fighting enemies, and making strategic decisions.
  

Setup:

1. Players: 1-4 players.

2. Map Setup: Arrange the modular map tiles according to the scenario setup. Place tokens for enemies, settlements, and other features as indicated.

3. Character Selection: Each player chooses a character and takes the corresponding figure, S.P.E.C.I.A.L. tokens, and starting equipment.

4. Quest Deck: Shuffle the quest deck and place it face down. Draw and resolve the starting quest card, placing quest markers on the map as indicated.

5. Enemy Decks: Shuffle the enemy decks and place them near the map. Place the corresponding enemy tokens face down on the map where indicated.

6. Resource Tokens: Place caps, loot, and other resource tokens within reach.
   

Gameplay:

1. Turn Sequence:

   • Action Phase: On your turn, you can perform two actions. Possible actions include:

     • Move: Move your character a number of spaces equal to your speed.

     • Explore: Reveal adjacent map tiles to uncover new locations and enemies.

     • Encounter: Draw and resolve an encounter card based on your location (e.g., in a settlement or the wasteland).

     • Fight: Engage an enemy in combat.

     • Quest: Complete a quest by fulfilling its requirements.

     • Camp: Recover health and manage inventory.

2. Combat:

   • When you fight an enemy, roll the custom dice to determine hits and blocks. Use your weapons, armor, and S.P.E.C.I.A.L. abilities to influence the outcome.

   • If you defeat the enemy, remove its token from the board and gain experience or loot. If you are defeated, suffer damage and possibly lose equipment.

3. Quests and Encounters:

   • Quests are central to progressing in the game. Each quest has specific objectives and choices that can lead to different outcomes.

   • Encounters occur in settlements and other special locations, providing opportunities to gain resources, recruit allies, or influence factions.

4. Factions:

   • The game features two opposing factions that players can support or hinder through their actions. The progress of these factions is tracked on the scenario sheet.

   • Faction influence is crucial as it determines how the story unfolds and impacts end-game scoring.

5. Leveling Up:

   • As you gain experience, you can level up your character, enhancing your S.P.E.C.I.A.L. abilities and unlocking new skills.

6. Winning:

   • The game ends when one player reaches the required amount of influence, which varies by scenario.

   • Influence is gained by completing quests, defeating powerful enemies, and making strategic decisions that align with the scenario's objectives.
     

Tips for Playing:

• Strategic Movement: Plan your moves carefully to optimize actions and avoid unnecessary combat.

• Quest Choices: Pay attention to quest choices as they can significantly impact the game’s outcome and your influence.

• Resource Management: Manage your caps, loot, and equipment wisely, as resources are limited.

• Faction Dynamics: Keep an eye on faction influence, as it can change the game’s landscape and your path to victory.