Space Race (2021) Board Game

Space Race is a card game released in 2021, designed by Dalibor Krch and published by an undisclosed publisher. The game is centered around the theme of space exploration, where players compete to achieve various space missions and earn the most Victory Points.

Game Components of Space Race

Cards: Technology breakthrough, propaganda, space program cards with various abilities and special actions

Player Boards: Each player has a unique deck based on their chosen faction

Tokens and Meeple: Used for tracking progress and controlling areas on the board

Space Ship Tokens: Represent different spaceships with unique abilities

Breakthrough Tracker: A board area where players compete to control different segments

Research Area: For players to gain points through research scenarios

Investment Area: Requires players to pay cards to play certain actions

Bureaucracy Cards: Allow players to perform special actions in reverse turn order

How To Setup Space Race

Players start by choosing their faction, each of which comes with a specific deck of cards. In the standard setup, all players start with the same deck configuration, while the thematic setup provides unique cards with special abilities for each faction. Each player has a hand limit of cards and draws additional cards as the game progresses. The game board is set up with various areas, including the unexplored universe, breakthrough tracker, and project areas.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Engine-Building: Players build a tableau of cards to perform different actions and combinations.

Card Drafting: Players draw and play cards from their deck and the unexplored universe.

Area Control: Players compete to control areas on the breakthrough tracker.

Resource Management: Players manage their hand of cards and the cards they play.

Game Objective: Score points by completing projects, controlling areas, conducting missions, and building their card tableau.

Player Experience

Playing **Space Race** involves strategic planning and resource management. Each round, players choose a card to play, which determines the sequence of actions. The game is divided into phases where players resolve propaganda, technology, space programs, and breakthroughs. Players can move tokens on the breakthrough tracker, complete projects, and score points based on their card combinations and area control.

Pros

Engaging Theme: The game is deeply rooted in the historical context of the space race.

High-Quality Components: The cards and tokens are of good quality, with detailed artwork and historical references.

Strategic Depth: The game offers a complex and strategic gameplay experience.

Variety in Factions: Each faction has unique abilities and cards, adding replayability.

Cons

Complex Symbology: The game’s symbology can be confusing, making it difficult for new players to learn.

Big and Busy Board: The board is large and filled with various areas, which can be overwhelming.

Game Length vs. Engine Building: The game ends after seven rounds, which can feel too short for the engine-building mechanic to fully develop.

Miscuts in Cards: Some players have reported miscuts in the cards.

Personal Thoughts on Space Race

**Space Race** is for fans of strategy and engine-building games who appreciate a strong thematic element. It is ideal for players who enjoy complex gameplay and are willing to invest time in learning the game’s mechanics. However, the game may not be the best fit for those seeking a quick or straightforward experience, as it requires a significant amount of setup and understanding of the rules. Despite some minor issues with component quality and symbology, the game offers a rich and immersive experience for those who enjoy delving into strategic depth.

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