Ruins of Mars (2021) Board Game

Ruins of Mars is a board game released in 2021 that takes players on an adventure through the red planet. Designed by Ronan Le Fur, Sebastian Koziner, and Calder Moore, the game is set in a science fiction universe where players must explore mysterious ruins and uncover ancient secrets on Mars.

Game Components of Ruins of Mars

Game board

Player boards

Resource tokens

Technology cards

Martian language tiles

Explorer tokens

Various other tokens and markers for tracking progress and resources

How To Setup Ruins of Mars

To set up Ruins of Mars, players first place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects an explorer token and places it on the starting location on the board. Players then receive a player board and initial resource tokens. The technology cards and Martian language tiles are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. The game is ready to start once all components are distributed and the board is prepared.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Action Selection: Players select actions to perform each turn.

Engine Builder: Players build and improve their technological capabilities throughout the game.

Shifting Resource Mechanism: Resources and actions available change turn-by-turn.

Game Objective: Players aim to decipher Martian languages, learn and replicate Martian technologies, and score the most points by contributing to the collective knowledge and technological advancements.

Player Experience

Playing Ruins of Mars involves a rich and immersive experience where players take on the roles of explorers uncovering the secrets of Mars. The game offers a light-medium strategy level, making it accessible yet engaging. The story is surprisingly rich, with Earth’s astronomers puzzled by a sudden red and green plume erupting from Mars, prompting the players’ mission to explore and understand this phenomenon.

Pros

Unique Mechanics: The shifting resource mechanism adds a layer of complexity and variability to each turn.

Rich Storyline: The game has a compelling narrative that enhances the gameplay experience.

Scalable: Supports 1-4 players, making it versatile for different gaming groups.

Strategic Depth: Offers a balance between strategy and accessibility.

Cons

Learning Curve: The unique mechanics can take some time to get accustomed to.

Resource Management: Managing the shifting resources can be challenging but also rewarding.

Personal Thoughts on Ruins of Mars

Ruins of Mars is ideal for players who enjoy strategic games with a mix of engine building and action selection. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate a game with a strong narrative and unique mechanics. The game’s light-medium complexity makes it a great choice for both casual and experienced board game enthusiasts looking to explore a new and engaging game.

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