MLEM: Space Agency (2024) Board Game

MLEM: Space Agency is a board game released in 2024 by Rebel Studio. Designed by renowned game designer Reiner Knizia, this game combines elements of animals, dice, racing, and space exploration. Players take on the role of space-faring animals competing to become the most successful space agency in the galaxy.

Game Components of MLEM: Space Agency

Players: 2-5

Age: 8 and up

Components: A neoprene-ish play mat, player boards, punched out cardboard pieces, wooden markers, and dice

Art and Design: Whimsical artwork by Joanna Rzepecka and graphic design by Joanna Rzepecka and Bartłomiej Kordowski

Publisher: Rebel Studio

How To Setup MLEM: Space Agency

To set up the game, each player selects their set of catstronauts and places them beside the game board. A shared spaceship marker is placed at the beginning of the track on the board, which represents the journey through various moons and planets. Players also receive goal tokens and special ability cards associated with their catstronauts.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics: Push-your-luck, dice rolling, and worker placement

Objective: Players aim to land their catstronauts on moons and planets to earn points. The game is played in a series of expeditions where players load their catstronauts into a shared spaceship.
– Each expedition involves rolling dice to move the spaceship along the track.
– Players decide whether to disembark their catstronauts onto adjacent moons or planets or to stay on the ship and continue the journey.
– The game ends when all catstronauts have been disembarked or when the spaceship crashes, marked by the “cosmic failure track.”
– Points are tallied based on moon and planet placements, with additional points for achieving specific goals.

Player Experience

MLEM: Space Agency offers a highly engaging and social gaming experience. The push-your-luck mechanics and dice rolling create tension and excitement as players make crucial decisions about when to disembark their catstronauts. The game encourages banter and strategic thinking, making it enjoyable for both family players and core gamers. The cat-in-space theme, complete with whimsical artwork, adds a layer of fun and whimsy to the game.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple rules make it accessible to players of all ages and experience levels.

High Replayability: Multiple expeditions and varied special abilities ensure each game is unique.

Social Interaction: The game fosters a sense of togetherness and encourages player interaction.

Family-Friendly: Suitable for children as young as 8 years old.

Short Playtime: Games typically last between 30-60 minutes.

Cons

Short Game Length: Not ideal for players seeking longer, more complex games.

Initial Advanced Rules: Suggest starting without advanced options to avoid frustration during the first playthrough.

Personal Thoughts on MLEM: Space Agency

MLEM: Space Agency is a perfect addition to any game collection, especially for those who enjoy light-hearted, family-friendly games with a dash of strategy. It is ideal for game nights, appealing to both children and experienced gamers. The game’s unique theme and engaging mechanics make it a great choice for anyone looking for a fun, quick, and social gaming experience. If you’re a fan of Reiner Knizia or simply love cats and space, this game is a must-have.

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