Lux Aeterna (2019) Board Game

Lux Aeterna is a solo board game that was released in in 2019. Designed by Alex Lee, this game falls under the categories of card game, real-time, and science fiction. With a runtime of 6-15 minutes, it is suitable for players aged 10 and above.

Game Components of Lux Aeterna

6 system cards representing different ship systems (Power, Life, Communications, Engine, Navigation, and Memory)

52 multi-use cards

4 Glitch cards

6 dice

Black hole proximity track card

Console card

Cache card

Player aid cards

Timer (optional use of a phone or other timing device)

How To Setup Lux Aeterna

To set up Lux Aeterna, start by choosing your starting position on the black hole proximity track, which affects your game end VP bonus. Randomly select six system cards and place a die set to 2 on each. Discard 8 cards from the main deck and shuffle in 4 Glitch cards into the bottom two-thirds of the deck. Set the timer according to the desired difficulty level (10 minutes for hard, 15 minutes for easy).

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Draw Cards: Draw 4 cards from the deck.

Choose Cards: Allocate cards as Event, Action, Speed, and Cache.

Resolve Event: Apply damage to the appropriate system based on the Event card.

Apply Action: Execute the effect of the Action card.

Move: Move the ship towards the black hole based on the Speed card.

Save to Cache: Keep one card for a future turn.

Discard: Discard resolved cards.

Objective: Repair three or more systems or draw all cards from the main deck before the ship reaches the black hole or four systems collapse.

Player Experience

Playing Lux Aeterna is a tense and dynamic experience, with players managing their time and resources to repair their ship’s systems while avoiding the pull of a black hole. The game features minimal randomness beyond the card draw, allowing players to make strategic decisions. The real-time element, enhanced by a timer, adds pressure and urgency to each turn. The theme is reinforced by the card art and design, creating a sci-fi horror atmosphere.

Pros

Fast and Engaging: Games last approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and thrilling experience.

Strategic Depth: Players must make critical decisions on card allocation and system repair.

Thematic Immersion: The game’s art and design create a strong sci-fi horror theme.

Adjustable Difficulty: Players can adjust the starting position and timer to change the game’s difficulty.

Cons

Luck of the Draw: Sometimes, the cards drawn may not offer optimal choices.

Limited Glitch Variety: Some players find the glitch mechanism could benefit from more variety.

Timer Requirement: The game’s real-time nature may not appeal to all players.

Personal Thoughts on Lux Aeterna

Lux Aeterna is ideal for solo gamers who enjoy real-time games and hand management mechanics. It is perfect for those who appreciate a challenge with strategic depth but also value quick play sessions. While it may not be the best fit for players who prefer games without timers or those seeking high randomness, Lux Aeterna offers a unique and engaging solo gaming experience.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.