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Mission: Red Planet

Mission: Red Planet

3-5
Players
60
Minutes
10+
Age
2005
Published

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What to Expect

Players act as mining companies sending astronauts to Mars to colonize and extract resources like Celerium, Sylvanite, and Ice. Over 10 rounds, players simultaneously select agents to fill rockets and control regions on Mars. Majority control yields points during and at the end of the game, while players also use strategy to block opponents and gather bonuses.

Who Is This Game For?

This game targets experienced players aged 10 and up who enjoy strategic sci-fi themes and steampunk aesthetics. With about 60 minutes playtime, it suits game nights with medium time slots. It requires some familiarity with hand management and area control mechanics but is accessible to dedicated families.

How It Works

Mission: Red Planet combines simultaneous action selection, hand management, and area majority. Each round, players simultaneously pick agents to place astronauts in rockets. After launch, astronauts move on Mars to control resource-rich areas. Players score for majority control and bonus cards. Interaction comes from blocking opponents' actions and strategic placement.

Action Retrieval Area Majority / Influence Area Movement End Game Bonuses Hand Management Simultaneous Action Selection

What Makes It Special

Designed by Bruno Faidutti and Bruno Cathala, this steampunk-themed game features a unique blend of simultaneous action selection and area movement. Although it has no official awards, it belongs to the Space: Mars family and stands out for its thematic integration and strategic depth. Published by Asmodee, it offers a distinct Mars colonization experience.

Pro

  • Innovative combination of simultaneous action selection and hand management
  • Strong thematic steampunk integration
  • Strategic depth through area majority and end game bonuses
  • Moderate 60-minute playtime

Contra

  • Only for 3 to 5 players, no solo mode
  • Medium complexity requires rule understanding
  • No official awards, less known

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in 1888 within a steampunk universe, the game centers on Mars colonization and mining newly discovered resources like Celerium, Sylvanite, and Ice on the red planet.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on using your agents wisely and watch opponents' moves to block their plans effectively.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

No, Mission: Red Planet is designed for 3 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

A game typically lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for medium-length game sessions.

What prior experience do I need?

The game targets experienced players aged 10+, familiar with simultaneous action selection and area control.

How does this compare to similar games?

Mission: Red Planet blends simultaneous action selection with steampunk and area movement, setting it apart from other Mars colonization games.

Is this suitable for families?

With a minimum age of 10 and moderate complexity, it can suit families with some gaming experience.

What mechanic makes it special?

The combination of simultaneous action selection and area majority provides the game’s strategic depth.

Fazit

Mission: Red Planet is recommended for players who enjoy strategic interaction and area control in a strong steampunk sci-fi setting. Its 3 to 5 player count and 60-minute duration fit well for smaller groups and medium-length sessions.