AuZtralia
- Designer Martin Wallace
- Publisher SchilMil Games, Ltd. , Arclight Games , Ediciones MasQueOca , Giochix.it , JOYPIE
- Illustration James Colmer
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Set in an alternate 1930s Australia, players build ports, railways, and mines while managing time as a vital resource. You prepare for the awakening of ancient Old Ones by cooperating or competing, using action retrieval and network building on a hex grid. The mix of cooperative and semi-cooperative elements creates tense and strategic gameplay.
Who Is This Game For?
AuZtralia targets experienced gamers aged 13 and up who enjoy complex, thematic games with a longer playtime of around 120 minutes. Prior experience with semi-cooperative and cooperative mechanics helps in managing the threats and strategic decisions involved.
How It Works
Players use action retrieval to perform tasks like building infrastructure and recruiting personalities on a hexagon grid map. Time is a critical resource spent each turn. Players cooperate or semi-cooperate to explore, build networks, and defend against the Old Ones, who act as an active antagonist awakening during the game.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Martin Wallace and nominated for the 2018 Board Game Quest Awards Best Thematic Game, AuZtralia blends horror and fantasy in a unique Australian setting. Its semi-cooperative gameplay combined with time management and network building distinguishes it from other exploration games.
Awards
- 2018 Board Game Quest Awards Best Thematic Game — Nominated
Pro
- Semi-cooperative gameplay with a fully cooperative variant
- Deep time management as a key resource
- Combination of action retrieval and network building
- Thematically rich setting inspired by A Study in Emerald
Contra
- Long playtime around 120 minutes demands patience
- Complex rules and mechanics can challenge new players
- Age recommendation 13+, so less suited for younger families
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in an alternate 1930s Australia after a devastating war, where ancient and dark beings lurk in the outback. This dark fantasy horror backdrop frames exploration and survival gameplay.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus early on efficient use of time and understanding action retrieval and network building mechanics.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, AuZtralia includes a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Gameplay lasts about 120 minutes; setup and learning take additional time.
What prior experience do I need?
Familiarity with medium to complex semi-cooperative games helps understanding the game’s depth.
How does this compare to similar games?
AuZtralia stands out by combining semi-cooperative play with network and route building on a hex grid.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and age limit of 13+, it is better suited for experienced players than younger families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The use of action retrieval combined with network building on a hexagon grid defines its gameplay.
Fazit
AuZtralia is recommended for players who appreciate deep, semi-cooperative strategy games with complex mechanics and a lengthy playtime. Patience and tactical planning are key to enjoying this thematic experience.
