High Frontier 4 All (2020) Board Game

High Frontier 4 All is a 2020 release designed by Phil Eklund, Justin Grey, Jon Manker, and Dom Rougier. It is a civilization and exploration board game set in a science fiction universe focused on space exploration and industry. Published by Ion Game Design, this game offers players a unique experience in building their space-faring civilization.

Game Components of High Frontier 4 All

Rules Booklets

Player Aids

Mapboard

Placards

Playmats

Wooden Domes (Colonies and Factories)

Gold Wooden Star

Disks

Rockets

Blue Beads

Punchouts

Six-Sided Dice

Cards.

How To Setup High Frontier 4 All

Setting up High Frontier 4 All involves several steps, including arranging the mapboard, distributing player aids, and preparing the various components such as cards, placards, and playmats. The game comes with introductory games and tutorials to help introduce the mechanics step by step, making the setup more accessible. However, due to the complexity of the game, it is recommended to learn from someone proficient or through detailed tutorials and playthroughs.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Engine-Building Mechanism: Players combine different space flight patents to build rockets or sun sails.

Turn Structure: Each turn consists of one action and one rocket movement.

Exploration and Industrialization: The goal is to industrialize the most in the solar system outside of Earth.

Modular Design: The game includes various modules that add new mechanics and complexity.

Auction System: Players can engage in auctions to acquire resources and cards.

Risk Management: Players must manage risks associated with space travel, including the potential for ship failure represented by dice rolls.

Player Experience

High Frontier 4 All is known for its depth and complexity, often described as a “lifestyle game” due to the significant time commitment required to learn and master it. Players must be prepared for extensive rule study and trial-and-error learning. The game appeals to space enthusiasts and those who enjoy long-term planning and strategic gameplay. While it can be overwhelming, the game offers a highly realistic and immersive experience of space exploration and industrialization.

Pros

Deep Strategic Gameplay: Offers complex and rewarding strategic decisions.

Realistic Simulation: Provides a realistic portrayal of space travel and exploration.

High Replayability: Each game is unique due to the combinations of rocket designs and exploration routes.

Community Support: Active community with available modules and house rules.

Improved Accessibility: The 4th edition includes introductory games and tutorials to ease the learning process.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Requires significant time to learn the full ruleset.

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players.

Luck and Risk: Dice rolls and auctions introduce elements of luck that can impact gameplay.

Time-Consuming: Games can be lengthy, often taking several hours to complete.

Personal Thoughts on High Frontier 4 All

High Frontier 4 All is ideal for seasoned board gamers and space enthusiasts who are willing to invest time in learning and mastering its complex mechanics. It is not for casual players or those looking for a quick gameplay experience. The game’s realism and depth make it a grail game for many, but it requires a commitment to learning and playing that not everyone may be ready for. If you have a group of dedicated players or enjoy solo play with complex games, High Frontier 4 All could be an incredibly rewarding experience.

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