The Search for Planet X
- Designer Matthew O'Malley , Ben Rosset
- Publisher Foxtrot Games , Renegade Game Studios , 17wanzy (Yihu BG) , Gém Klub Kft. , Hobby World
- Illustration James Masino , Michael Pedro
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You play as astronomers using observations and logical deduction to locate a hypothetical distant planet. A companion app randomly selects object arrangements and Planet X's position; each round you perform scans, attend conferences, and record findings on deduction sheets. Players publish theories to score points while narrowing down possible locations for Planet X. The game blends puzzle-style deduction with competitive scientific discovery.
Who Is This Game For?
For hobby gamers who enjoy deduction and puzzle mechanics; recommended from age 13. With 1–4 players and an approximate 75-minute playtime, it's suited to game nights that allow for thoughtful analysis. Some familiarity with deduction or paper-and-pencil games helps, though the app guides the session.
How It Works
Core mechanics include Action Points, Deduction, Paper-and-Pencil and a Rondel element, with app-driven procedures. Each round the app runs scans and conference events; players spend action points to take actions and mark information on their sheets. End game bonuses and publishing theories provide scoring opportunities, and when confident about Planet X’s location you run a search via the app. Solo rules are included, as the game supports solitaire play.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Matthew O'Malley and Ben Rosset and presented as a digital hybrid requiring an app/website. It received multiple 2020 nominations including Golden Geek categories and Cardboard Republic Socializer Laurel, and a 2021 recommendation from American Tabletop Strategy Games. The mix of app-driven setup and paper deduction distinguishes it from purely analog deduction titles.
Awards
2020
- 2021 American Tabletop Strategy Games — Recommended
- 2020 Cardboard Republic Socializer Laurel — Nominated
- 2020 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Deep deduction experience via paper-and-pencil tracking
- App-driven randomness and flow simplify setup and management
- Includes solitaire rules (1 player supported)
- Good fit for 1–4 players and ~75 minutes playtime
Contra
- Requires sustained concentration for ~75 minutes
- More of a hobby/enthusiast title than a light family game
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set at the edge of our solar system, players search the sky for a hypothesized distant planet. Theme focuses on astronomical observation and investigation.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Let the app guide you through early rounds and focus on accurately recording observations before rushing to publish theories.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes. The game supports solitaire play.
How long does a game really take?
Listed duration is about 75 minutes; learning and analysis can extend that time.
What prior experience do I need?
Familiarity with deduction or paper-and-pencil games is helpful; the app lowers the barrier to entry.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its app-based randomization and paper deduction sheets make it a digital hybrid compared to purely analog deduction games.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 13 and a thoughtful playstyle, it's better suited to hobby gamers than young family groups.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Paper-and-Pencil deduction with Action Points and a Rondel-like decision structure defines the experience.
Fazit
If you like methodical deduction, app-assisted setup, and puzzle solving, this is a solid choice. Players seeking very quick or casual games may find the duration and analysis demands a drawback.
