Ceres (2023) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Ceres is a science fiction board game that revolves around space exploration and resource management in the distant future. It was designed by Gustaf Sundström and published by Artipia Games in in 2023. The game is set on the dwarf planet Ceres in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, where players take on the role of rival corporations vying for control over the planet’s valuable resources.

Game Components of Ceres

Player boards

Leader tokens

Worker tokens (various colors)

Resource tokens (energy, ice, advanced ceramics, ore, alloys, money)

Influence markers for the AMAC Council

Asteroid belt board

Rocket tokens

Technology cards

Point tokens

Politics tokens

How To Setup Ceres

To set up Ceres, each player starts with a player board and initial outstations. Players receive a set of leader tokens and a starting amount of resources. The asteroid belt board is assembled, and the game’s rounds are prepared by rotating the asteroid belt and its components. Each player places their influence markers and sets up their storage for resources and money.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Worker Placement: Players place leader tokens or activate outstations by assigning workers.

Resource Management: Players manage resources like energy, ice, advanced ceramics, ore, alloys, and money.

Asteroid Mining: Launch rockets to mine asteroids, which requires paying ice to cross different zones.

Technology Advancement: Move cubes to advance technology levels, reducing costs and increasing capabilities.

Politics: Influence the AMAC Council using influence markers.

Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most points by launching rockets, advancing technology, and participating in politics.

Player Experience

In Ceres, players engage in a strategic game of resource management and worker placement. Each round, the asteroid belt rotates, creating new opportunities and challenges. Players must balance launching rockets to mine asteroids, advancing their technology to improve efficiency, and influencing the AMAC Council to gain benefits. The game is dynamic, with each round offering different worker placement spots and asteroid mining opportunities.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Offers complex decision-making with multiple paths to victory.

Dynamic Gameplay: The rotating asteroid belt and new worker placements each round keep the game fresh.

Thematic Immersion: A compelling sci-fi theme that immerses players in asteroid mining and space exploration.

Replayability: High replayability due to random worker placements and rotating asteroid belts.

Cons

Learning Curve: Can be complex for new players due to multiple mechanics and resources.

Resource Management: Managing multiple types of resources can be overwhelming.

Limited Spots: Competition for worker placement spots can lead to blockages and strategic frustration.

Personal Thoughts on Ceres

Ceres is ideal for fans of worker placement and resource management games, particularly those with an interest in sci-fi themes. It is suited for players who enjoy strategic planning and adapting to changing circumstances. While it may have a steep learning curve, the game’s depth and replayability make it a rewarding experience for experienced gamers. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for a quick, simple game.

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.