Space Dragons (2021) Board Game

Space Dragons is a card game designed by Richi Haarhoff and released in 2021 by Edition Spielwiese. The game combines elements of open drafting and trick-taking, set in a science fiction theme where players take on the roles of space dragon trainers.

Game Components of Space Dragons

80 Crew cards

7 Dragon cards

3 double-sided public goal cards

Spaceship cards (one per player)

Damage tokens

How To Setup Space Dragons

To set up *Space Dragons*, players can choose from two variants. The preferred method involves dealing 9 crew cards to each player, then drafting one card before passing the remaining hand to the left. Alternatively, players can simply deal 9 cards to each player and start the game, passing their entire hand to the left after each round.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Length: 7 rounds, each lasting around 10-15 minutes total game time.

Objective: Play one card per round to defeat the dragon, scoring points from defeated dragons and public goals.

Crew Cards: Each card has a number (1-80) and icons for various actions like damaging opponents, shielding, or repairing.

Public Goals: Set collection goals tied to icons on played cards and defeated dragons.

Ship Damage: Winning a round can result in ship damage, which must be managed to avoid negative points.

Player Experience

*Space Dragons* is known for its quick gameplay and easy-to-learn rules, making it a great filler game. However, the game’s simplicity and limited variability can lead to reduced excitement after multiple plays. The game requires strategic card management and an awareness of what other players have played to make informed decisions.

Pros

Quick Setup and Playtime: Games are short, lasting around 10-15 minutes.

Easy to Teach: Simple rules make it accessible to new players.

Great Artwork: The game features fantastic artwork on the cards.

Interactive: Players can directly interact with each other through damage and shielding.

Cons

Limited Variability: The game lacks significant variability, with dragons scoring between 8-12 points and a limited set of public goals.

Replay Value: The excitement diminishes after several plays due to the lack of new challenges or content.

Randomness: The game’s short duration and randomness can make it feel less strategic at times.

Personal Thoughts on Space Dragons

*Space Dragons* is ideal for groups looking for a quick, light-hearted game to fill gaps during game nights. It’s perfect for casual gamers who enjoy a bit of strategy and interaction but may not be the best fit for those seeking a deep, complex gaming experience. While it has its moments of excitement, the game’s limited content and variability might make it less appealing for veteran gamers seeking long-term engagement.

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