Space Gate Odyssey (2019) Board Game

Space Gate Odyssey is a science fiction board game released in 2019 by Ludonaute. Designed by Cédric Lefebvre and illustrated by Vincent Dutrait, this game takes players on a journey through space exploration as they build networks and routes to establish their dominance in the galaxy. With a runtime of 90 minutes and suitable for ages 12 and up, Space Gate Odyssey offers an immersive gaming experience for 2 to 4 players.

Game Components of Space Gate Odyssey

Main board featuring the 5 rooms of the Odyssey space station

Central planet Hawking with informational tracks

Eight unique exoplanets with different scoring systems

Space Gate modules

Airlock modules

Odyssey modules

Engineers, robots, and chief engineers (meeples)

Settlers

Influence markers

Government rank ladder

Module pieces with color/type combinations

Worksite tray for module storage

How To Setup Space Gate Odyssey

To set up the game, players start by placing the main board and the central planet Hawking. Three exoplanets are randomly chosen and placed on the table with a space gate on each. Two additional exoplanets are set aside for later use. Each player selects a starting module, places five settlers on it, and adds more settlers and modules to the Odyssey board. Players then choose two module types to start building their space station, ensuring the corridors connect properly. Modules are placed face down with the “off” side showing.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Module building and management

Worker placement (engineers, robots, chief engineers)

Resource management (settlers)

Area control (exoplanets)

Scoring system based on exoplanet colonization

Game Objective

Build and manage modules on the Odyssey space station

Colonize exoplanets through space gates

Accumulate influence points by settling exoplanets

Achieve the highest influence score by the end of the game

Player Experience

In Space Gate Odyssey, players take on the role of leaders of different confederations aiming to colonize newly discovered exoplanets. The game requires strategic planning from the outset, as each exoplanet has a unique scoring system. Players must balance module construction, resource management, and worker placement to maximize their influence. The game’s flow is dynamic, with each turn involving activating rooms on the Odyssey, taking actions based on the number of meeples in those rooms, and managing the colonization of exoplanets.

Pros

Engaging and complex gameplay

High replayability due to random exoplanet selection

Well-integrated theme of space colonization

Strategic depth requiring forward planning

Cons

Steeper learning curve due to multiple mechanics and components

Longer playtime may not suit all players

Component management can be cumbersome

Personal Thoughts on Space Gate Odyssey

Space Gate Odyssey is ideal for fans of strategic board games who enjoy complex gameplay and theme integration. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate worker placement, resource management, and area control mechanics. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and longer playtime, it offers a rich and rewarding experience for those who enjoy deep strategic gameplay.

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