Afternova (2020) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Afternova is a science fiction card game designed by Jeff Chin and published in in 2020. The game is set in a distant future where players take on the roles of rival factions vying for control of the galaxy. With elements of negotiation and trading, players must use their hand management skills to outwit their opponents and emerge victorious in this cosmic battle.

Game Components of Afternova

Game board

Hired Paws tokens

Planet tiles

Resource tokens

Player boards

Negotiation cards

How To Setup Afternova

To set up Afternova, start by placing the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects a player board and places it within reach. Shuffle the planet tiles and place them face down on designated spaces on the board. Distribute the Hired Paws tokens and resource tokens according to the player count. Each player receives a set of negotiation cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Negotiation: Players negotiate with each other during the Extract action to gather necessary resources.

Resource Management: Manage Hired Paws and resources to successfully mine planets.

Area Control: Compete to mine the most valuable planets.

Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most points by mining planets and negotiating effectively with other players.

Player Experience

Playing Afternova involves a blend of strategic planning and social interaction. Players must balance their resource management with the need to negotiate with competitors. The game’s dynamic nature, where players frequently interact and make deals, adds a layer of excitement and unpredictability. The theme of mining unstable planets after a supernova adds a unique twist to the traditional negotiation and resource management mechanics.

Pros

Engaging Negotiations: The game’s core mechanic of negotiation keeps players actively involved and interacting.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful management of resources and strategic planning.

Unique Theme: The setting of a supernova aftermath adds a fresh spin to the game.

Cons

Complexity: New players might find the negotiation mechanics and resource management somewhat complex.

Replayability: Some players might find the game repetitive if they prefer more varied gameplay experiences.

Personal Thoughts on Afternova

Afternova is ideal for players who enjoy games that combine strategic planning with social interaction. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate negotiation mechanics and are comfortable with a moderate level of complexity. The game is a great fit for groups of experienced players looking for a challenging yet engaging experience. However, it may not be the best choice for beginners or those seeking a simple, quick game session.

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