Race to the North Pole (2015) Board Game

Race to the North Pole is a board game released in 2015 by Cosmic Games. Designed by Jouni Jussila and Tomi Vainikka, the game combines elements of adventure, exploration, and racing. Players take on the roles of explorers trying to be the first to reach the North Pole.

Game Components of Race to the North Pole

Rotating Board: Simulates the unpredictability of Arctic weather.

Cards: Used for various actions and events.

Player Tokens: Represent the teams racing to the North Pole.

Storm Tokens: Indicate changes in the board due to weather conditions.

How To Setup Race to the North Pole

To set up the game, players first place the rotating board in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a token and places it at the starting point. The deck of cards is shuffled, and each player receives a set of starting cards. Storm tokens are placed within reach of all players to be used as weather conditions change.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Family-friendly, competitive racing game.

Mechanics: Area Movement, Hand Management, Variable Player Powers.

Objective: Be the first team to reach the North Pole.

Weather Effects: The rotating board changes with storm tokens, altering the landscape and challenges.

Card Play: Players use cards to move, protect themselves from storms, and hinder opponents.

Player Experience

**Race to the North Pole** offers a dynamic and engaging experience, with the rotating board and storm tokens introducing a high level of unpredictability. Players need to adapt quickly to changing conditions, making it a game that requires both strategy and luck.

Pros

Dynamic Board: The rotating board adds a unique and exciting element to the game.

Simple to Learn: Easy rules make it accessible to a wide range of players.

Interactive: Players can directly affect each other’s progress.

Weather Mechanic: Adds an element of surprise and realism to the Arctic theme.

Cons

Luck Factor: The weather and card draws can heavily influence the outcome.

Repetitive: Some players may find the gameplay repetitive after several rounds.

Personal Thoughts on Race to the North Pole

**Race to the North Pole** is ideal for families and casual gamers looking for a fun, light-hearted experience. The game’s simplicity and interactive mechanics make it a great choice for game nights or family gatherings. However, serious gamers seeking complex strategies might find it a bit too straightforward. Overall, it’s a delightful addition to any game collection, especially for those who enjoy a mix of luck and strategic play.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.