Planetarium (2017) Board Game

Planetarium is a board game that was released in 2017 and designed by Dann May and Greg May. It falls under the educational, science fiction, and space exploration categories, making it a unique and interesting game for those who enjoy learning about outer space.

Game Components of Planetarium

Beautiful game board with orbits around a star

Matter tokens (water, gas, rock, metal)

Approximately 36 Evolution cards

16 Final Evolution cards

Player mats

Player and score markers

Unique space art and flavor on the cards.

How To Setup Planetarium

Setup for Planetarium is quick, taking less than 5 minutes. Players start by placing the game board in the middle of the playing area, distributing the matter tokens and Evolution cards, and giving each player a mat. Each player also receives a set of player and score markers. The game is ready to play once all components are placed according to the initial setup instructions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Grid Movement: Players move matter or planet tokens in a clockwise direction around the star.

Hand Management: Players manage their Evolution cards.

Strategy: Players aim to evolve planets to meet their secret endgame goals.

Game Objective

Players compete to crash combinations of elements onto planets.

Use collected matter tokens to play Evolution cards to evolve planets.

Evolve planets to either hostile or habitable states based on card effects.

Final Evolution cards determine the final state of the planets at the end of the game.

Score points based on the Evolution and Final Evolution cards played.

Player Experience

In Planetarium, players are immersed in a cosmic adventure where they control the formation and evolution of four planets. The game combines elements of strategy and resource management as players navigate the orbits around the star, collect matter tokens, and play Evolution cards to shape their planets. The unique art and thematic elements, including asteroid impacts and atmospheric effects, add a layer of depth and realism to the gameplay experience.

Pros

Thematic Depth: The game is developed with input from a scientist working on NASA’s search for life on Mars, adding a scientific layer to the gameplay.

Strategic Complexity: The combination of matter collection and Evolution card management offers a challenging yet engaging experience.

Visual Appeal: The game features beautiful, unique space art and flavor on the cards.

Quick Setup: The game can be set up in under 5 minutes.

Cons

Moderate Chance: The game includes elements of chance, which may not appeal to players seeking pure strategy.

Limited Availability: The game has been out of stock in some retailers.

Personal Thoughts on Planetarium

Planetarium is ideal for players who enjoy strategy games with a strong thematic focus. It is particularly appealing to those interested in space and planetary science. With a playing time of 45 minutes and an age range of 10+, it is accessible to a wide range of players. However, it may not be the best fit for those looking for games with minimal luck or those seeking extremely light, casual gameplay.

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