Jump Drive (2017) Board Game

Jump Drive is a card game released in 2017 that is designed for 2-4 players. It is set in a science fiction universe where players take on the role of space explorers trying to build the most efficient and successful space empire.

Game Components of Jump Drive

Card deck featuring World cards (with a circle symbol) and Development cards (with a diamond symbol)

Cards with various symbols, costs, and production values

Survey Team and exploration chits

Player tableaus for card placement

How To Setup Jump Drive

To set up **Jump Drive**, each player starts with a hand of 5 cards chosen from 7 dealt cards. The remaining cards are shuffled into a draw deck. Players begin with no cards in their tableau. The most complicated part of the setup is shuffling the large number of cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Categories: Cards are divided into Worlds (circle symbol) and Developments (diamond symbol).

Cost and Payment: Players choose a card to play, discarding cards from their hand equal to the card’s cost.

Income and Drawing: Players collect victory points and draw new cards based on the production values listed on their played cards.

Exploration: If a player has no playable cards, they can explore to draw cards, using “eyes” in their tableau to increase the draw.

Game End: The game ends when a player reaches 50 victory points, with the player having the most points declared the winner.

Player Experience

**Jump Drive** is a quick and satisfying game, lasting only 6-7 turns and typically under 20 minutes. It is designed to be an introduction to the concepts of **Race for the Galaxy** but with simpler rules. The game is easy to learn and features a fast-paced engine-building mechanic where every card counts. Players enjoy the simplicity and the rewarding moments when their tableau produces a large number of victory points and cards.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simplified rules make it accessible to new players.

Quick Gameplay: Games are short, lasting under 20 minutes.

Rewarding Moments: Players experience satisfying turns when their tableau generates many points and cards.

Simple Setup: Setup is straightforward, with the most complex part being card shuffling.

Engaging Engine-Building: The game involves strategic decisions in building up the player’s tableau.

Cons

Luck-Dependent: The game involves a significant amount of luck due to card draws.

Runaway Leader Problem: Players who get early advantage can pull ahead significantly.

Lack of Player Interaction: Unlike **Race for the Galaxy**, **Jump Drive** simplifies player interactions, which may be a drawback for some players.

No Variable Player Powers: Unlike its more complex counterpart, **Jump Drive** does not include variable player powers, which can limit strategic diversity.

Personal Thoughts on Jump Drive

**Jump Drive** is perfect for those looking for a fast, fun, and easy-to-learn card game. It is an excellent introduction to the mechanics of **Race for the Galaxy** and serves well as a filler game for game nights. While it may lack the complexity and player interaction of its older brother, it offers a delightful and quick gaming experience that is hard to resist. It is particularly suited for players who enjoy engine-building games but prefer something lighter and quicker.

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