Planet Steam
Planet Steam at your next game night?
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- Designer Heinz-Georg Thiemann
- Publisher LudoArt Verlag , Edge Entertainment , Fantasy Flight Games , Heidelberger Spieleverlag
- Illustration David Ardila , Chris Beck , Czarnè , Ian McQue , Brian Schomburg
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
In Planet Steam, you take on the role of entrepreneurs on the hot planet Steam in the year 2415. You place platforms over steaming shafts to harvest resources like water, energy, and quartz. Then, you trade these commodities in a volatile market to grow your steam empire. The game demands careful resource management, strategic use of specialists, and smart market moves to claim victory.
Who Is This Game For?
Planet Steam is designed for experienced gamers aged 14 and up who enjoy complex economic simulations. With a playtime around 180 minutes, it requires patience and strategic planning. Prior experience with auction and market mechanics is beneficial due to the game's complexity.
How It Works
Players bid in auctions to acquire specialists and equipment. They use platforms to extract resources, which are then traded in a fluctuating market. Core mechanics include Auction/Bidding, Commodity Speculation, and Trading. Success depends on managing resources well and manipulating supply and demand effectively.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Heinz-Georg Thiemann, Planet Steam combines steampunk themes with deep economic simulation. It was nominated for the Meeples Choice Award in 2008 and for the Golden Geek Award for Best Artwork in 2009. The game stands out by blending commodity speculation with auctions within a richly thematic setting.
Awards
2009
- 2008 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Deep economic simulation with auctions and commodity trading
- Atmospheric steampunk setting on the planet Steam
- Nominated for Meeples Choice Award 2008 and Golden Geek Award 2009
- Gameplay depth through market manipulation and resource management
Contra
- Long playtime of about 180 minutes requires patience
- Complex rules and mechanics not suitable for beginners
- Minimum age of 14 limits younger players
Setting & atmosphere
Set in the year 2415 on the fictional steampunk planet Steam, players act as entrepreneurs mining resources from hot steam shafts to build their economic empires.
Tips for beginners
Focus on mastering basic resource management and market trading before diving into specialist auctions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Planet Steam is designed for 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 180 minutes, making it an extended session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced players familiar with auction and economic mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
Planet Steam uniquely combines steampunk theme with commodity speculation and auction mechanics.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for older players aged 14 and up and enthusiasts.
What mechanic makes it special?
Auction/Bidding combined with Commodity Speculation and Trading shapes the gameplay.
Fazit
Planet Steam is a demanding economic game for experienced players who enjoy auctions and trading. Its long playtime requires patience but offers a rewarding strategic experience.
Planet Steam at your next game night?
Add Planet Steam to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Planet Steam to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
