Outpost (1991) – Board Game Guys

Outpost

“Outpost” is a board game published by TimJim Games from 1991 to 1994. The game was designed to be simple and accessible, with a playing time of 1.5 to 3 hours. The goal of the game is for players to compete to acquire victory points through stylized economic activity using production output cards to buy more factories and population, and special ability cards, including the titular Outpost. In 2011, Stronghold Games reprinted Outpost with a new “kicker” mechanic, providing additional cards to bid on.

Why is Outpost Popular?

Outpost is a popular game because it offers players a simple and engaging economic experience in a space colony setting. The game combines elements of strategy, competition, and cooperation, making it appealing to a wide range of players. Additionally, the game’s theme of building and managing a space colony resonates with the general public’s interest in space exploration and the future of humanity in outer space.

Game Components of Outpost

Factory tokens

Population tokens

Production output cards

Special ability cards, including the Outpost card

Robot colony upgrade cards

Space Station, Planetary Cruiser, and Moon Base cards

Ore and Water cards

How To Setup Outpost

To set up Outpost, players start by receiving initial factory and population tokens. Each player begins with a specific number of Ore and Water cards, with each player getting 4 Ore and 2 Water cards on their first turn. The game also involves setting up the available colony upgrade cards according to the number of players, using a setup chart. Players must manage their hand capacity, which starts at 10 production cards, before taking their turns.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Resource Management: Players use production output cards to manage resources.

Card Drawing: Low chance element through card draws.

Simple Mathematics: Involves counting, adding, and subtracting.

Social Skills: Interaction and strategic planning with other players.

Bidding: Introduction of a “kicker” mechanic in the 2011 reprint by Stronghold Games.

Game Objective

Build and staff factories to produce resources.

Use resources to build more factories and purchase population tokens.

Acquire victory points through efficient resource management and strategic use of special ability cards.

Player Experience

Outpost offers a complex and engaging game experience, particularly suited for players who enjoy strategic planning and resource management. The game requires players to balance their production, population growth, and the use of special ability cards to outmaneuver their opponents. With a playing time of 1.5 to 3 hours, it is a game that demands commitment but rewards strategic thinking.

Pros

Encourages strategic planning and long-term thinking.

High replayability due to the variable setup and card draws.

Engaging for players who enjoy economic and resource management games.

Social interaction and competition among players.

Cons

Long setup and playing time can be daunting for new players.

Complex rules may require multiple plays to fully understand.

Limited availability, as it is an older game.

Personal Thoughts on Outpost

Outpost is ideal for experienced board game enthusiasts who enjoy intricate economic games and strategic resource management. It is not a game for casual players due to its complexity and lengthy gameplay. However, for those who appreciate deep strategy and are willing to invest the time, Outpost offers a rich and rewarding gaming experience.

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