Mission: Red Planet (Second Edition) (2015) Board Game

Mission: Red Planet (Second Edition) is a revamped version of the original game, which was released in in 2015. Designed by Bruno Cathala and Bruno Faidutti, this science fiction board game takes players on a thrilling adventure to Mars in the midst of a space race. With updated artwork and streamlined gameplay mechanics, the second edition offers an improved gaming experience for both newcomers and fans of the original.

Game Components of Mission: Red Planet

Player count: 2 to 6 players

Playing time: 45 to 90 minutes

Age: 14+

Components: Mars board, astronaut tokens, character cards, spaceship cards, resource tokens (celerium, sylvanite, ice), mission cards, research cards, event cards, and more.

How To Setup Mission: Red Planet

To set up the game, players first assemble the Mars board, which is composed of four cardboard quadrants that fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. Each player selects a set of character cards and astronaut tokens. Spaceship cards are placed on their respective docking stations, and each player receives a secret mission card. The game also includes a deck of event cards and research cards that can be drawn during the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game mechanics: Area control, simultaneous action selection, resource management.

Objective: Players aim to send astronauts to Mars, occupy resource-rich zones, and harvest celerium, sylvanite, and ice. The player with the most points at the end of ten rounds wins.

Character cards: Each character has a unique skill set, determining when and how astronauts are placed on spaceships and special actions taken during the round.

Resource collection: Resources are collected three times during the game, with players earning points based on their control of regions.

Secret missions: Players have secret mission cards that provide additional points for specific achievements.

Event and research cards: These cards can alter the value of resources or introduce unexpected challenges and opportunities.

Player Experience

**Mission: Red Planet** offers a dynamic and competitive experience, blending strategic planning with tactical execution. Players must balance their secret missions with the need to mine resources efficiently. Each round involves simultaneous action selection, where players secretly deploy one of their character cards, revealing them in a countdown from 9 to 1. This mechanism adds a layer of tension and unpredictability, as players must anticipate their opponents’ moves to succeed.

Pros

Engaging gameplay: Combines area control and simultaneous action selection for a tense and strategic experience.

High replayability: Multiple character cards, secret missions, and event cards ensure each game is unique.

Unique theme: A Victorian-era steampunk setting adds a fascinating twist to the traditional resource management genre.

Solid components: The game includes high-quality, thematic components that enhance the playing experience.

Cons

Complexity: The game has moderate complexity, which may be daunting for new players.

Length: Games can take up to 90 minutes, which may not appeal to those looking for shorter sessions.

Interplayer conflict: The game involves significant competition and potential sabotage, which may not be suitable for all player groups.

Personal Thoughts on Mission: Red Planet

**Mission: Red Planet** is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games with a blend of area control and social deduction. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate games that require careful planning and tactical execution. While it may not be the best fit for casual or new players due to its moderate complexity, it is a great addition to any board game collection for those who enjoy a challenge and competitive gameplay. This game is perfect for fans of games that combine strategy, resource management, and a touch of sabotage, making it a standout in the area control genre.

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