Australia
- Designer Michael Kiesling , Wolfgang Kramer
- Publisher Ravensburger AG , Rio Grande Games
- Illustration Harald Lieske
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players act as Rangers working on industrial and nature projects across six Australian states divided into regions. Using biplanes, they move between regions, manage hand cards, and place Rangers in bases to score points. The game features a mix of action points, hand management, and area majority mechanics, requiring tactical decisions to complete projects and gain bonuses. Resource management and area control are key to victory.
Who Is This Game For?
Australia is suitable for families and hobby gamers aged 10 and up, offering about 90 minutes of playtime. It balances approachable rules with strategic depth, ideal for players comfortable with hand management and area control. New players will find a moderate learning curve, while experienced players appreciate the thematic integration.
How It Works
Each player controls Rangers, a plane, and a hand of cards. On their turn, they choose two of three actions: move the plane and reveal industry counters, play cards to earn money and place Rangers, or remove Rangers from the board. Placement costs vary depending on region color. Points come from completing nature and industrial projects through area majority and influence. Core mechanics include Action Points, Hand Management, Area Movement, and Area Majority.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Michael Kiesling and Wolfgang Kramer, Australia won the 2006 Games Magazine Game of the Year award. It uniquely blends Action Points and Open Drafting within a historical 1920s Australian setting. Part of the Country series, it stands out by combining hand management with area control in a thematic exploration game.
Awards
2005
2005
- 2006 Games Magazine Game of the Year — Winner
Pro
- Rich historical theme with authentic atmosphere
- Combines Action Points, Hand Management, and Area Majority
- Supports 2 to 5 players
- Winner of Games Magazine Game of the Year 2006
Contra
- Approximate 90-minute playtime may be long for casual players
- Moderate complexity suited for experienced families and hobby gamers
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in 1920s Australia, players act as Rangers balancing industrial development and nature conservation across sparsely populated regions and six states. The game reflects the era’s exploration and national growth.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on mastering the core actions and how to efficiently place Rangers before exploring advanced tactics.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Australia requires at least 2 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, suitable for an evening session including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
Players should be comfortable with hand management and area control mechanics; suitable for families with some gaming experience and hobbyists.
How does this compare to similar games?
Australia uniquely combines Action Points and Open Drafting with area majority in a historical setting, distinguishing it from abstract control games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, for families with children aged 10 and up who have some board gaming experience; younger or inexperienced players may find it complex.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Action Points, Hand Management, and Area Majority mechanics creates a balanced and thematic gameplay experience.
Fazit
Australia is recommended for players seeking strategic gameplay with a historical theme and moderate complexity. Its 90-minute duration suits those looking for a focused game night. Families with younger children might find the complexity challenging.
