Pocket Mars (2017) Board Game

Pocket Mars is a card game designed by Jarosław Wajs and released in in 2017. It is a science fiction game that takes players on a journey through space exploration on the red planet, Mars. The game combines elements of area majority/influence, hand management, and solo/solitaire gameplay to provide a unique gaming experience.

Game Components of Pocket Mars

55 Cards

16 Mission Cards

4 Player Aid Cards

4 Score Markers

1 Starting Player Marker

How To Setup Pocket Mars

Shuffle the main deck of cards.

Deal 9 cards to each player.

Place the Mission Cards in a row in the center of the play area.

Give each player a Player Aid Card and a Score Marker.

Choose a starting player.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Pocket Mars, players are trying to colonize Mars by sending their astronauts to different locations on the planet. Players must strategically place their cards in order to gain majority control in each area and score points. The game ends when the Mission Cards have all been resolved and the player with the most points wins.

Player Experience

Pros:

Quick gameplay, perfect for a short gaming session.

Strategic depth with hand management and area control mechanics.

Solo mode available for solo play.

Cons:

Limited player interaction.

Luck plays a role in card draws.

Personal Thoughts on Pocket Mars

Overall, Pocket Mars is a solid card game with interesting gameplay mechanics and a unique theme. The build quality of the game is good, with sturdy cards and components. The pricing for the game is reasonable, making it accessible to a wide range of players. While there are alternatives and similar games on the market, Pocket Mars stands out for its quick gameplay and strategic depth. It is worth your time if you enjoy science fiction and space exploration themes in board games. It is suitable for players aged 10 and above, and those who enjoy solo gaming experiences. However, if you prefer games with high player interaction, you may want to skip Pocket Mars.

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