The Great Space Race (2006) Board Game

The Great Space Race board game was released in 2006 and designed by Craig Zipse. It is a science fiction racing game that allows 3–6 players to compete in a race through outer space. The game features variable player powers and action queue mechanics, making each playthrough unique and engaging.

Game Components of The Great Space Race

Track: An oval track made up of a grid of hexagons.

Ships: Eight different space ships with unique abilities.

Control Consoles: Eight control consoles matching the space ships, each showing special abilities, two bays, and five action slots.

Counters: Includes mines, command decision counters, and other game markers.

Cards: Three separate decks – Action, Major Event, and Equipment.

Additional Components: Shields, hull, speed counters, and various event cards.

How To Setup The Great Space Race

To set up the game, players start by placing the large board on the table, featuring an oval track made of hexagons. Each player selects one of the eight control consoles and corresponding space ships. They set their shields to “10”, their hull to “6”, and their speed to “1”. Players also receive mines and command decision counters based on the number of players. The three decks of cards (Action, Major Event, and Equipment) are placed near the board, and players position their space ships on the starting numbers on the track. Each console displays the special ability for the chosen space ship, along with two bays and five action slots.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Action Queue: Players program their moves by playing action cards face down in the order they want to execute them.

Simultaneous Action Selection: Players simultaneously reveal and execute their action cards.

Variable Player Powers: Each space ship has unique abilities.

Objective: The first player to complete three laps (or fewer laps in a shorter game) around the track wins. Players must navigate through obstacles like minefields, asteroids, and wormholes while trying to outmaneuver their opponents[5>.

Player Experience

The Great Space Race offers a dynamic and humorous gaming experience, reminiscent of Super Mario Kart but set in space. Players must feed their flight plans into the computer as they cannot think fast enough to pilot the ships themselves. The game is filled with action, including deploying mines, firing weapons, and using special abilities. The inclusion of event cards adds an element of unpredictability, with possibilities like sniper attacks, wormholes, and black holes. Despite the complex rules, the gameplay is relatively easy to learn and becomes fast-paced once started.

Pros

Interactive and Dynamic: Players actively interact with each other through mines, weapons, and special maneuvers.

High Replayability: Each game can turn out differently due to the varied action cards and event cards.

Humorous Theme: The game’s theme of piloting ships with somewhat incompetent alien pilots adds a layer of humor and fun.

Strategic Depth: The use of command decisions and action cards requires strategic thinking.

Cons

Complex Rules: The initial rules can be intimidating, although the gameplay becomes straightforward once started.

Long Playing Time: Games can last up to 3 hours, which may not be suitable for all players.

Luck Factor: The draw of event cards and the roll for impact can introduce a significant element of luck.

Personal Thoughts on The Great Space Race

The Great Space Race is ideal for those who enjoy racing games with a sci-fi twist and appreciate a blend of strategy and humor. It is suitable for groups of 3-6 players looking for a fun, interactive, and sometimes chaotic gaming experience. While it may not be the best fit for players seeking a quick game, it offers a rich and engaging experience for those willing to invest the time. If you enjoy games like RoboRally or Super Mario Kart, you will likely find The Great Space Race to be a delightful addition to your game collection.

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