Ada's Dream
Ada's Dream at your next game night?
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- Designer Toni López
- Publisher Alley Cat Games , A-Z kiadó , BoardM Factory , Strohmann Games
- Illustration Javier González Cava
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
You collaborate with Ada Lovelace in an alternate history to help build the first computing engine. Over multiple rounds you use a Workshop Rondel, give lectures, travel across the UK and complete Ada's assignments to earn prestige. Dice Rolling, Hand Management and Tech Tracks shape decision-making; completing an engine triggers the endgame. The play blends thematic tasks with euro mechanics.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at hobby gamers: more complex than a family game but not strictly an expert-only title. At about 120 minutes it requires planning and patience. A solo mode is included for lone players, while multiplayer benefits from prior experience with engine-building systems.
How It Works
The core revolves around Dice Rolling and a Rondel where players take dice and place them on personal blueprints. Hand Management and Tech Tracks determine which developments and programs you unlock. Actions such as lectures, travel and assignments generate prestige; when any engine is completed the game ends and prestige is tallied. Overall the flow emphasizes resource/dice manipulation and gradual optimization.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Toni López, Ada's Dream ties the historical figure Ada Lovelace to mechanical depth. It was a 2025 nominee for Golden Geek Heavy Game of the Year. The mix of dice drafting/rolling with engine-building on a rondel defines its distinct angle.
Awards
2025
Pro
- Strong historical theme around Ada Lovelace
- Combination of Dice Rolling, Rondel and Tech Tracks provides tactical depth
- Includes a solo mode (1 player supported)
- 2025 Golden Geek Heavy Game of the Year nominee
Contra
- Around 120 minutes per session requires time commitment
- Mechanic density can be daunting for newcomers
Setting & atmosphere
An alternate-historical setting focused on Ada Lovelace and the construction of the Analytical Engine; theme centers on computing/IT and industrial development in a historical context.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on understanding the rondel and a few Tech Track choices; develop your engine step by step rather than pursuing everything at once.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Yes. The game supports a solo mode (players.min = 1).
How long does a game really take?
The listed duration is about 120 minutes; with setup and explanation a session may run longer.
What prior experience do I need?
Familiarity with euro mechanics like rondel systems, dice management and engine-building is helpful.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its blend of dice drafting/rolling on a rondel plus tech-track progression emphasizes dice manipulation and long-term planning compared to other euros.
Is this suitable for families?
Given the 14+ age recommendation and complexity, it's better suited to experienced family members than to children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The standout mechanics are the rondel management combined with Dice Rolling and Tech Tracks.
Fazit
Recommended for players who enjoy deep euro mechanics and historical themes. Casual players may find the duration and density challenging.
Ada's Dream at your next game night?
Add Ada's Dream to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Ada's Dream to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
