Red Rising
- Designer Alexander Schmidt (II) , Jamey Stegmaier
- Publisher Stonemaier Games , Albi , Automa Factory , Corax Games , Delta Vision Publishing
- Illustration Miles Bensky , Jacqui Davis , Justin Wong (II)
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Red Rising, you enter a dystopian future based on Pierce Brown's book series, where society is divided into fourteen castes. You lead a house competing for power by managing your hand of cards, deploying followers to board locations, and activating their benefits. The game lasts about 45-60 minutes and combines strategy with combo-building mechanics.
Who Is This Game For?
Red Rising is designed for experienced players and sci-fi fans aged 14 and up. The 60-minute playtime requires patience and strategic thinking. Prior experience with hand management mechanics is helpful, and the game includes a solo mode for single players.
How It Works
Players start with five cards in hand and on their turn deploy one card to a board location to activate its benefit. They then gain a card from another location or the deck, also gaining that location's bonus. Alternatively, a player can reveal a card from the deck and place it to gain a location benefit. The game features hand management, open drafting, set collection, and dice rolling mechanics.
What Makes It Special
Red Rising was recommended for the 2021 International Gamers Award Solo. It blends the narrative world of Pierce Brown’s novels with strategic card play. Designer Jamey Stegmaier is known for innovative solo and multiplayer games. It belongs to the Card Games: Draw and Discard family and features unique end game bonuses.
Awards
2021
Pro
- Solo mode included
- Combination of hand management and open drafting
- Strategic depth with moderate playtime
- Theme based on a popular book series
Contra
- Requires strategic thinking and patience
- Not suitable for younger children (14+)
- Complexity might deter beginners
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in a futuristic dystopian society divided into fourteen castes. It is based on Pierce Brown’s novels and explores power struggles among different houses.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the core hand management and open drafting mechanics before attempting complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Red Rising includes a solo mode designed for one player.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts about 45 to 60 minutes, suitable for a medium-length session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced players familiar with hand management and set collection.
How does this compare to similar games?
Red Rising combines hand management with open drafting and dice rolling in a sci-fi setting based on a novel series.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to the 14+ age recommendation and complexity, it is better suited for older players and enthusiasts.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its blend of hand management, open drafting, and dice rolling creates diverse strategic options.
Fazit
Red Rising is recommended for players who enjoy strategic hand management and sci-fi themes, especially with a solo option. Its complexity and playtime require some experience and time commitment.


















