Cosmogenesis (2017) Board Game

Cosmogenesis is a space exploration board game released in 2017, designed by Tim Barton and David Prieto. The game is set in a distant future where players take on the role of interstellar civilizations competing to create the most prestigious galaxy. With stunning artwork by Ludonova, Cosmogenesis offers a unique gaming experience in the realm of simulation and worker placement mechanics.

Game Components of Cosmogenesis

Central board representing a nebula

Elements from four different sectors

Planets and moons

Asteroid belt

Star

Objective cards

Rulebook available in English and Spanish

How To Setup Cosmogenesis

To set up Cosmogenesis, players begin by placing the central board, which represents a nebula, in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a starting star and asteroid belt. The elements from the four sectors of the nebula are prepared and placed within reach of all players. Objective cards are distributed, and each player is ready to start forming their planet system.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Worker Placement: Players obtain one element from each of the four sectors over four turns.

Simulation: Elements are used to form planets and moons, which can collide to increase size, develop rings, create atmospheres, and generate life.

Objective Fulfillment: Players aim to fulfill their own objectives, which are obtained from the central board.

Victory Points: The game ends with players calculating their victory points based on the objectives fulfilled, determining the overall winner.

Player Experience

In Cosmogenesis, players embark on a cosmic journey of creating and managing their own planet systems. The game requires strategic planning as players must carefully select elements to achieve their objectives. The simulation aspect adds a layer of realism, making the game engaging and immersive. With a playtime of 46-60 minutes, it offers a balanced experience between strategy and exploration.

Pros

Engaging Theme: The space exploration theme is highly immersive and engaging.

Strategic Depth: The game requires careful planning and strategic element selection.

Visual Appeal: The game’s artwork, contributed by David Prieto and Tim Barton, enhances the overall aesthetic.

Simple Rules: Despite its strategic depth, the game has a complexity rating of 2.6 out of 5, making it accessible to new players.

Cons

Limited Player Count: The game is designed for 2-4 players, limiting its scalability.

Playtime Variability: The playtime can range from 46-60 minutes, which might not be ideal for all players.

Complex Setup: While the rules are simple, setting up the game can be somewhat complex due to the multiple components.

Personal Thoughts on Cosmogenesis

Cosmogenesis is perfect for fans of space exploration and strategy games. It is suitable for players aged 12 and above and is an excellent choice for families or small groups of friends looking for an engaging and educational gaming experience. The game’s balance between strategy and simulation makes it appealing to both casual and serious board game enthusiasts. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking games with a higher player count or simpler setup procedures.

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.