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Lift Off (2018) Board Game

ByMichail

Lift Off is a board game released in 2018 by designer Jeroen Vandersteen and published by Hans im Glück. The game is set in the world of space exploration and industry manufacturing, where players compete to build the most successful space agency.

Game Components of Lift Off

  • Mission specialist cards with built-in and optional actions
  • Mission cards with varying difficulty levels
  • End-game goal cards
  • Resource tokens (credits, food, etc.)
  • Technology and infrastructure development components
  • Player boards for tracking progress
  • International space station and base upgrade components

    How To Setup Lift Off

    To set up Lift Off, players start by drafting three end-game goals that remain secret until the end of the game. Each player receives an initial income and draws a hand of three mission specialists. The game is divided into two phases, each consisting of four rounds. The setup involves distributing the necessary cards and resources to each player, ensuring each has a starting hand of specialists and an understanding of their secret goals.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Drafting:** Players draft mission specialists and missions each round.
  • Resource Management:** Manage credits, technologies, and space for missions.
  • Mission Completion:** Draw, keep, and launch missions based on available resources and technologies.
  • Optional Actions:** Use specialists for actions like contributing to the international space station, upgrading the base, or acquiring technologies.
  • Launches:** Launch missions to score points; weaker missions yield more points.
  • End-Game Scoring:** Score points for end-game goals, completed missions, food technology, and leftover credits.
  • Game Objective:** The player with the most points at the end of the game wins.

    Player Experience

    Lift Off offers a engaging and thematic experience, particularly for those interested in space exploration. The game’s artwork and 1950s theme enhance the immersion. Players appreciate the balance between simplicity and depth, making it accessible yet challenging. The game’s length and pacing are well-suited, with games typically lasting 60-120 minutes.

    Pros

  • Thematic Integration:** The game mechanics and theme are well-aligned, creating a believable space exploration experience.
  • Approachable Engine-Builder:** Easy to learn but with enough depth to keep players engaged.
  • Strategic Depth:** Various strategies and optional actions provide replayability.
  • Art and Theme:** The 1950s theme and artwork are highly praised for their authenticity and aesthetic.

    Cons

  • Tight Money Situation:** Resource management can be challenging, especially for new players.
  • Initial Complexity:** While not overly complex, it may take a playthrough to fully grasp all mechanics.
  • High Score Variability:** Scores can be high, and significant point swings are possible, which can be discouraging if not managed well.

    Personal Thoughts on Lift Off

    Lift Off is ideal for players who enjoy engine-building games and are fascinated by the theme of space exploration. It’s a great choice for those looking for a game that balances accessibility with strategic depth. The game is particularly recommended for fans of the subject matter and those who appreciate a well-integrated theme. While it may not be the most innovative game, its execution and thematic coherence make it a standout in its category.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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