Space Race: The Card Game (2017) Board Game

Space Race: The Card Game is a space-themed card game that was released in in 2017. Designed by Zak Eidsvoog and Dalibor Krch, this game allows players to experience the excitement of the space race in a fun and competitive way. With a focus on hand management, open drafting, simulation, and simultaneous action selection, players must strategize and outsmart their opponents to achieve victory.

Game Components of Space Race: The Card Game

Cards: Engineers, technologies, space programs, and various other cards that players acquire from a shared pool called the Universe.

Control Cards: These cards dictate the active phase for each round.

Project Tiles: Criteria-based tiles that players must meet to score points.

Mission Progress Token: Tracks progress on a rocket schematic.

Victory Point Track: To keep score of players’ progress.

Lab and Agency Areas: Spaces for players to manage their cards.

How To Setup Space Race: The Card Game

To set up the game, each player starts by creating their own Space Agency area. Five Project tiles are dealt out randomly, but only one is available at the start. Players shuffle the Universe deck and draw cards to place facedown into the Unexplored universe area. The Control card stack is initiated, and each player receives a starting hand of cards. The game is divided into seven rounds, each representing a decade of development.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Manage the Agency: Players play cards into the Unexplored universe area, which are then shuffled and revealed into different columns based on card type (Propaganda, Technology, Space Program, Breakthrough).

Develop the Agency: Each round has four stages (Propaganda, Technology, Space Programs, Breakthrough) followed by a Bureaucracy stage. Players use cards to perform actions corresponding to these stages.

Complete Projects: Players meet criteria on Project tiles to score points.

Score Points: Points are scored based on card placements, Lab area cards, Breakthrough area domination, and Project completion.

Objective: The goal is to have the most successful space exploration program by accumulating the most points over seven rounds.

Player Experience

Playing **Space Race: The Card Game** is an immersive experience that challenges players to strategically manage their Space Agencies. The game is highly variable, with no guaranteed winning strategy, forcing players to adapt to an ever-changing environment. The beautiful illustrations by Dalibor Krch add to the game’s appeal, making each playthrough unique and engaging. With a playing time of 30-60 minutes, it offers a substantial yet manageable gaming session.

Pros

High Replayability: Each game is completely different due to the random draw of cards and Project tiles.

Strategic Depth: Requires players to build powerful combinations and adapt to changing conditions.

Beautiful Artwork: The illustrations enhance the game’s theme and overall experience.

Engaging Mechanics: The combination of card management, project completion, and stage-based actions keeps players engaged.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be complex, especially for new players, due to the various stages and card interactions.

Learning Curve: Understanding the card powers and game phases may take time.

Dependence on Card Draw: The game’s outcome can be influenced significantly by the cards drawn from the Universe deck.

Personal Thoughts on Space Race: The Card Game

**Space Race: The Card Game** is ideal for fans of strategic engine-building games and those interested in space exploration. It is suited for players aged 14 and above who enjoy complex, yet rewarding, gameplay. The game’s variability and lack of a definite winning strategy make it appealing for players who enjoy adapting their strategies and trying different approaches each time they play. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for a quick, simple game.

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