Federation (2022) Board Game

Federation is a political science fiction board game released in 2022 by Explor

Designed by Dimitri Perrier and Matthieu Verdier, the game is set in a futuristic universe where players take on the roles of different alien species vying for control and dominance in the galaxy. With a runtime of 60–120 minutes and a recommended age of 14 and up, Federation offers an engaging and strategic gameplay experience for 2 to 4 players.

Game Components of Federation

Game board

Double-sided worker placement tiles

Player boards

Resource tokens

Opportunity cards

Strategy cards

Worker tokens

Scorepad

How To Setup Federation

Setting up Federation involves several steps. First, each player chooses a player board and places it within reach. The game board is then placed in the middle of the playing area. Players receive their starting worker tokens and resource tokens. The opportunity and strategy cards are shuffled and placed within designated areas on the board. Each player selects a starting strategy card to guide their initial moves. Once all components are in place, the game is ready to begin.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Double-Sided Worker Placement: Players use worker tokens on double-sided tiles to perform different actions.

Resource Management: Managing resources to execute actions and strategies.

Opportunity Cards: Utilize opportunity cards to gain advantages or overcome challenges.

Strategy Cards: Implement strategy cards to guide long-term plans.

Game Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most points over a 5-year period by developing strategies, deploying tactics, and taking the best opportunities.

Player Experience

Federation offers a engaging and strategic gameplay experience. Teaching the game can be front-loaded, but once players start, the gameplay becomes surprisingly smooth. The game is suitable for players who enjoy deep strategic planning and tactical execution. At a two-player setting, the game retains its appeal and complexity.

Pros

Innovative Mechanics: Double-sided worker placement adds a unique twist to traditional worker placement games.

Deep Strategy: The game requires players to think ahead and develop long-term strategies.

Smooth Gameplay: Despite the initial complexity, gameplay flows smoothly once started.

High Replayability: The combination of opportunity cards and strategy cards ensures varied gameplay each session.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Teaching the game can be challenging due to its complex rules and mechanics.

Front-Loaded Instructions: New players may find the initial setup and rules explanation lengthy.

Personal Thoughts on Federation

Federation is ideal for fans of eurogames and strategic board games. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy complex decision-making and long-term planning. While it may not be the best fit for casual or new board game enthusiasts due to its steep learning curve, experienced players will find it highly rewarding. The game’s ability to maintain its complexity and appeal even at a two-player setting makes it a versatile addition to any board game collection.

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