Roll for the Galaxy
- Designer Wei-Hwa Huang , Thomas Lehmann
- Publisher Rio Grande Games , CrowD Games , Devir , Games Factory Publishing , Gigamic
- Illustration Martin Hoffmann , Claus Stephan , Mirko Suzuki
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You build a space empire by using dice to represent your populace, assigning them to develop technologies, settle worlds and ship goods. The game adapts Race for the Galaxy into a dice format, focusing on dice optimization and action selection. Games are compact (~45 minutes) and mix engine‑building with Dice Rolling and Action Retrieval.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at experienced hobby players who enjoy strategy and dice mechanics. Suitable for ages 13+ (min_age 13) and groups of 2–5 players. The 45‑minute playtime fits regular game nights; familiarity with engine‑builders or civilization games helps.
How It Works
Players use personal dice as resources and choose actions via Action Retrieval; rolled icons are resolved through Die Icon Resolution. Deck, Bag, and Pool Building elements appear as you expand your empire with new technologies and contracts. Dice Rolling and Follow mechanics create tactical choices without direct conflict.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Wei‑Hwa Huang and Thomas Lehmann and published by Rio Grande Games in 2014. Roll for the Galaxy received multiple 2014 nominations at Board Game Quest Awards and Golden Geek, and won Board Game Quest Awards Best Strategy/Euro Game in 2014. Its conversion of Race for the Galaxy into a dice game is a defining feature.
Awards
2014
- 2014 Board Game Quest Awards Best Strategy/Euro Game — Winner
- 2014 Board Game Quest Awards Game of the Year — Nominated
Pro
- Compact playtime (~45 minutes) for a strategic title
- Core dice mechanics (Dice Rolling, Die Icon Resolution) enable tactical depth
- Engine‑building combined with Action Retrieval offers variability
- Notable designers: Wei‑Hwa Huang & Thomas Lehmann; published 2014
Contra
- Not focused on direct player confrontation
- Learning curve for symbol literacy and engine concepts
Setting & Atmosphäre
Science‑fiction setting of building a galactic empire through settlement, technology development, and trade. Theme reflects classic civilization and space exploration motifs.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on learning the dice icons and the effects of each action; a few practice rounds clarify common patterns.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No. The game is designed for 2–5 players.
How long does a game really take?
Listed duration is about 45 minutes; teaching and the first game may take longer.
What prior experience do I need?
Familiarity with engine‑building or strategic Euro games is beneficial; intended for ages 13 and up.
How does this compare to similar games?
It translates Race for the Galaxy's concepts into dice mechanics, using Dice Rolling and Die Icon Resolution instead of primarily card play.
Is this suitable for families?
With a recommended age of 13+, it's more suitable for families with older kids or teens.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Action Retrieval and Die Icon Resolution alongside Dice Rolling defines its gameplay.
Fazit
A solid choice for players who like strategic dice optimization and engine development; shorter sessions than many heavy euros. Recommended if you enjoy Race for the Galaxy or dice‑based engine games.
