Martian Coasters (2006) Board Game

Martian Coasters is an abstract strategy board game designed by Andrew Looney and published by Looney Labs in in 2006. The game is best suited for 2 to 5 players aged 8 and above, with a playtime of 15 to 30 minutes. With a combination of dice rolling, a modular board, and a roll/spin and move mechanism, Martian Coasters offers a unique and challenging gameplay experience.

Game Components of Martian Coasters

A set of four colorful 4″ beverage coasters, each featuring a small 3×3 maze gameboard.

A single Treehouse set, which includes pyramid pieces in various colors.

How To Setup Martian Coasters

To set up Martian Coasters, players start by arranging the four coasters in a grid or any other desired pattern. Each coaster has a unique maze printed on it. The Treehouse set is used to place the pyramid pieces on the coasters according to the specific rules of the game being played. Since Martian Coasters can be used to play multiple games, the setup may vary depending on the chosen game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics: Abstract strategy, maze navigation, and spatial reasoning.

Game Objective: The objective varies depending on the specific game being played with the Martian Coasters. Generally, players aim to navigate the pyramids through the mazes or achieve specific patterns.

Player Experience

Playing Martian Coasters offers a unique and engaging experience, combining the simplicity of coasters with the complexity of a strategy game. Players need to think ahead and plan their moves carefully to succeed. The game is highly portable and can be played casually or competitively.

Pros

Portable: The game is easy to carry around due to its coaster format.

Versatile: Can be used to play multiple different games.

Colorful and Visually Appealing: The coasters are colorful and add a fun element to the game.

Easy to Learn: The basic rules are simple, making it accessible to new players.

Cons

Limited Complexity: Some players might find the games played with Martian Coasters too simple or repetitive.

Dependence on Treehouse Set: The game requires a Treehouse set to be fully functional.

Personal Thoughts on Martian Coasters

Martian Coasters is ideal for fans of abstract strategy games and those who enjoy games that are both portable and versatile. It’s a great addition to any game collection, especially for players who appreciate the Looney Pyramid series. The game is suitable for casual gamers and families looking for a fun, easy-to-learn game. However, players seeking more complex gameplay might find it less challenging.

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