Alaska
- Designer Eric Solomon
- Publisher Educa Sallent SA , Grow Jogos e Brinquedos , Otto Maier Verlag , Το Καλό Παιχνίδι Α.Ε.
- Illustration Urs Waldvogel
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Alaska, players build ice tiles during winter to create paths to a central island. When spring arrives, the ice thaws and tiles can be removed to shorten routes. Action cards like Polar Bear or Frostbite affect movement and strategy. The goal is to collect containers from the island and bring them back to camps before the ice melts completely.
Who Is This Game For?
This game suits enthusiasts and families aged 12 and up who enjoy a mix of tile placement and tactical transport mechanics. With around 60 minutes playtime, it offers a manageable game length for strategic decisions without long waiting times. Prior experience with pick-up-and-deliver mechanics is helpful but not required.
How It Works
Alaska combines Tile Placement and Pick-up and Deliver mechanics: players place ice tiles in winter to build routes to the island. In spring, tiles can be removed to create shortcuts. Turns involve drawing from two decks—one for tiles and one for action cards—which influence movement and gameplay. Trucks move across the ice to collect and deliver containers.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Eric Solomon and recommended for Spiel des Jahres in 1979, Alaska uniquely blends seasonal theme with tile placement and action cards. Its Arctic setting and evolving ice board create dynamic routes that reflect the changing seasons. It's a classic example of pick-up-and-deliver gameplay with a thematic twist.
Awards
1979
Pro
- Combination of Tile Placement and Pick-up and Deliver
- Realistic seasonal theme
- Spiel des Jahres 1979 recommended
- Manageable 60-minute playtime
Contra
- Only for 2 to 4 players
- No solo mode available
- May be complex for younger players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the Arctic region of Alaska, the game captures the seasonal shift between winter and spring. Players navigate an icy landscape that changes as tiles are placed and removed.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on building efficient routes and use action cards strategically to gain advantages or hinder opponents.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Alaska is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game of Alaska lasts about 60 minutes, making it suitable for an evening game session.
What prior experience do I need?
It is suitable for enthusiasts and requires no special prior knowledge, though familiarity with tile placement and action cards helps.
How does this compare to similar games?
Alaska uniquely combines tile placement with pick-up-and-deliver mechanics and a seasonal theme affecting the game board.
Is this suitable for families?
Recommended for ages 12 and up, making it suitable for families but may be complex for younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Tile Placement and Pick-up and Deliver mechanics with action cards creates varied and tactical gameplay.
Fazit
Alaska is a solid choice for players who enjoy tactical tile-laying games with thematic depth and moderate playtime. It appeals especially to fans of transport and ice-themed games valuing interaction and strategic planning.
