New Frontiers

2-5

Players

Minutes

14+

Age

2018

Published

Designer Thomas Lehmann
Publisher Rio Grande Games , Gigamic , Hobby Japan , Korea Boardgames , Portal Games
Illustration Martin Hoffmann , Wei-Hwa Huang , Claus Stephan

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What to Expect

In New Frontiers, players build galactic empires by selecting actions in turn that all can perform, but only the selector gains bonuses. Strategic planning starts before the game as the developments are set up at the beginning. Players explore worlds with special powers, need colonists to settle them, and produce, trade, or consume goods for victory points. The game ends when one of several conditions is met, and the player with the most points wins.

Who Is This Game For?

New Frontiers targets experienced gamers aged 14 and up who enjoy medium-length (about 75 minutes) strategic tableau-building and drafting games. It is not suited for beginners or families. The 2 to 5 player count supports small to medium groups.

How It Works

The game features Action Drafting and Open Drafting, where players take turns choosing actions that all can perform, but only the active player receives a bonus. The Follow mechanic allows players to copy chosen actions. Increase Value of Unchosen Resources means unpicked resources gain value. Turn Order: Claim Action defines the turn order. Players develop and settle worlds to earn victory points.

Action Drafting Follow Increase Value of Unchosen Resources Open Drafting Race Turn Order: Claim Action

What Makes It Special

New Frontiers was nominated for the Meeples Choice Award in 2018. Designed by Thomas Lehmann, it stands out as a unique standalone in the Race for the Galaxy family, combining tableau building with race mechanics. The pre-game development selection enables varied strategies and high replayability.

Awards

2018 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated

Pro

Strategic planning via development selection before play
Action Drafting with bonuses for active player
Combines Follow and Tableau Building mechanics
Part of the well-known Race for the Galaxy family

Contra

Not suitable for beginners due to complexity
Requires patience and strategy experience
No solo mode available

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in a sci-fi universe focused on space exploration and empire building. Players colonize planets and develop technologies across the galaxy.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on understanding the effects of chosen actions and plan your development steps carefully.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

No, New Frontiers 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 75 minutes, suitable for an evening session.

What prior experience do I need?

The game suits experienced players familiar with drafting and tableau building.

How does this compare to similar games?

New Frontiers is a standalone title in the Race for the Galaxy family combining Action Drafting with tableau building.

Is this suitable for families?

Due to its complexity and minimum age of 14, it is not recommended as a family game.

What mechanic makes it special?

The combination of Action Drafting, Follow, and Increase Value of Unchosen Resources defines New Frontiers.

Fazit

Recommended for players seeking complex, strategic sci-fi games familiar with drafting and tableau building. Not ideal for beginners.