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Ad Astra LUCCA GIOCO DELL'ANNO 2009

Ad Astra

3-5
Players
60
Minutes
13+
Age
2009
Published

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What to Expect

In Ad Astra, you lead one of five evolved human factions exploring the galaxy. You plan actions face-down on a shared board and then execute them in sequence. You terraform planets, build colonies and starships, move ships, and trade resources. The game ends when a player reaches 50 victory points or all planets are discovered.

Who Is This Game For?

Ad Astra suits experienced players who enjoy strategic planning and interaction. With a 60-minute playtime, it's ideal for those familiar with simultaneous action selection and trading mechanics. There is no solo mode, so group play is required.

How It Works

The game features mechanics like Simultaneous Action Selection, Action Queue, and Variable Phase Order. Players place action cards face-down during the planning phase on a shared board. Then, actions are revealed and resolved in order, with everyone benefiting from each action. Trading and resource management are key elements.

Action Queue Simultaneous Action Selection Trading Variable Phase Order

What Makes It Special

Ad Astra won the Lucca Games Best Boardgame in 2009 and was nominated for the Meeples Choice Award. Designed by Bruno Faidutti and Serge Laget, it blends Action Queue and Trading in a sci-fi civilization setting, setting it apart from similar games.

Awards

LUCCA GIOCO DELL'ANNO 2009
Winner
2009
  • 2010 Ludoteca Ideale Official Selection — Winner
  • 2009 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated

Pro

  • Combines Simultaneous Action Selection with Action Queue
  • High player interaction through trading and variable action order
  • Winner of the 2009 Lucca Games Best Boardgame
  • Complex sci-fi setting with diverse factions

Contra

  • Only for 3-5 players, no solo mode
  • Complexity requires experience with strategy games
  • 60-minute playtime may feel long for casual players

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in a science fiction galaxy, humans have evolved into five distinct races adapted to different planetary environments, colonizing and exploring the stars.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on mastering basic mechanics like action planning and resource management before exploring advanced strategies.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

Ad Astra is not designed for solo play and requires 3-5 players.

How long does a game really take?

A game lasts about 60 minutes, with the planning phase sometimes taking extra time.

What prior experience do I need?

Experience with strategy games and simultaneous action selection helps.

How does this compare to similar games?

Ad Astra uniquely combines Action Queue and Trading in a sci-fi civilization theme.

Is this suitable for families?

Due to complexity and player count, it’s better suited for experienced players than families.

What mechanic makes it special?

The blend of Simultaneous Action Selection with Action Queue and variable phase order stands out.

Fazit

Ad Astra is recommended for players who appreciate tactical planning and player interaction. It is less suited for families or solo players due to its 3-5 player requirement.