High Frontier
- Designer Phil Eklund
- Publisher Sierra Madre Games
- Illustration Phil Eklund
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In High Frontier, players act as Earth governments racing to build a functional space program to extract resources and colonize planets, moons, and asteroids. They manage water in low Earth orbit as currency to bid on patents and build spacecraft, balancing heavy functional parts with lighter components for maneuverability. The game mixes auction, hand management, and simulation to create a deep space exploration experience.
Who Is This Game For?
High Frontier targets experienced players who enjoy complex strategy games with a playtime of about 180 minutes. It requires patience and prior experience with thematic and detailed board games. It is less suited for families or casual players due to its complexity and length.
How It Works
Players use water in low Earth orbit as currency to bid in auctions on patents for thrusters, refineries, and robotics. Through hand management and dice rolling, they navigate spacecraft across point-to-point routes in the solar system. They must balance heavy parts and lighter ones to optimize fuel consumption and maneuverability. The game combines pick-up and deliver with simulation mechanics to reflect realistic space conditions.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Phil Eklund, High Frontier was nominated for the 2011 Golden Geek Best Thematic Board Game and Most Innovative Board Game awards. It is part of the High Frontier series and stands out for its realistic simulation of space travel and resource management combined with auction/bidding mechanics.
Awards
2011
Pro
- Deep simulation of space travel and resource management
- Combination of auction/bidding and hand management
- High thematic immersion with realistic setting
- 2011 Golden Geek nominee
Contra
- Long playtime of around 180 minutes
- Complex rules require prior experience
- Not suitable for families or casual players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in the near future where private and government entities compete to exploit resources throughout the solar system. The theme focuses on space exploration, colonization, and the use of water as rocket fuel in low Earth orbit.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the complex mechanics and focus initially on basic resource management.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
High Frontier is designed for 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 180 minutes, excluding setup time.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced players familiar with complex strategy titles.
How does this compare to similar games?
High Frontier uniquely combines realistic simulation with auction/bidding in a space exploration theme.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is less suitable for family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of auction/bidding, simulation, and hand management defines its gameplay.
Fazit
High Frontier is recommended for players seeking complex, thematic strategy games with long playtimes and economic depth. Those willing to invest in simulation and strategic planning will find a unique space experience.
