Ahead in the Clouds (2017) Board Game

Ahead in the Clouds is a card game designed by Bryan Fischer and was released in in 2017. It is a two-player game that falls into the categories of card game, print & play, and science fiction. The game is published by Button Shy and features artwork that complements its theme of being in the clouds.

Game Components of Ahead in the Clouds

18 cards

Resource tokens (dust particles, water vapor, hydrogen, oxygen)

Contract cards

How To Setup Ahead in the Clouds

To set up the game, players need to shuffle and deal the 18 cards, which include resource collection cards, conversion cards, and contract cards. Each player starts with a few basic resources and a set of contracts they aim to fulfill. The setup is straightforward and quick, preparing players for a fast-paced game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Resource Management: Collect dust particles and water vapor from the air and clouds.

Resource Conversion: Convert collected resources into hydrogen and oxygen.

Contract Fulfillment: Fulfill specific contracts using the converted resources.

Worker Placement: Although not traditional worker placement, players manage their resources and actions to optimize their strategy.

Objective: The player who successfully fulfills the most contracts and has the most resources at the end of the game wins.

Player Experience

In Ahead in the Clouds, players engage in a competitive yet strategic game, managing resources to achieve contracts. The game is designed for two players and lasts between 15-30 minutes, making it a quick and engaging experience. The game’s setting in a floating civilization adds a unique thematic twist, enhancing the player’s immersion.

Pros

Compact Design: The game is condensed into just 18 cards, making it highly portable.

Quick Gameplay: Games last between 15-30 minutes, perfect for a quick session.

Strategic Depth: Despite its small size, the game offers meaningful resource management and conversion strategies.

Thematic Engagement: The unique setting of Empacta’s floating civilization adds an interesting thematic layer.

Cons

Limited Player Count: The game is designed exclusively for two players, limiting its appeal for larger groups.

Simple Components: While the compact design is a plus, some players might find the components too minimal.

Personal Thoughts on Ahead in the Clouds

Ahead in the Clouds is ideal for players looking for a quick, strategic game that they can play with a friend or family member. It’s perfect for those who enjoy resource management and contract fulfillment mechanics without the need for a large game setup. The game’s thematic appeal and quick gameplay make it a great addition to any board game collection, especially for fans of euro-style games.

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