Timespan
Timespan at your next game night?
Add Timespan to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
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- Designer Kenneth Minde , Kristian Amundsen Østby
- Publisher Alion – by Dr Ø
- Illustration Nilanjan Malakar
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
Lead a civilization from the stone age to the space age in about 90 minutes. The game pairs asymmetric civilizations with unique technology boards and a drafting/exploration phase. Much of play is simultaneous: you place cards on a timeline, activate them with workers and advance on culture and science tracks. There is no warfare; emphasis is on peaceful development and building an economic engine.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at experienced players who enjoy civilization-style, non-combat games. With a 12+ age recommendation and a 90-minute playtime, Timespan suits groups comfortable with variable player powers and tech development; casual players may need some sessions to acclimate.
How It Works
Players draft cards and discovery tiles during an exploration phase, then play an action phase simultaneously. Individual civilization boards, Tech Trees / Tech Tracks and Variable Player Powers shape each player's path. Worker Placement is used to activate timeline cards and board actions, producing resources, culture or science advances and access to ship, flight and space tracks. Luxuries can upgrade cards and become permanent income when moved into a player's heritage.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Kenneth Minde and Kristian Amundsen Østby, Timespan offers six asymmetric civilizations and unique technology boards, creating high replayability. The deliberate exclusion of warfare focuses the design on engine building and exploration.
Pro
- Asymmetric civilizations for varied playstyles
- Tech Trees / Tech Tracks enable deep development choices
- Simultaneous action phases reduce downtime
- Emphasis on economic engine over warfare
Contra
- 90-minute sessions require concentration and time
- Variable Player Powers and multiple boards increase learning curve
Setting & atmosphere
The game covers multiple ages of a civilization — from stone age to space age — with a thematic focus on exploration, construction and technological progress.
Tips for beginners
Focus on synergies between your timeline cards and technology board; use the exploration draft to secure complementary options.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Yes. players.min = 1 indicates a solo mode is included.
How long does a game really take?
Duration is about 90 minutes; allow extra time for setup and learning.
What prior experience do I need?
Timespan is a medium-to-heavy game using Tech Trees and Variable Player Powers; some board game experience helps.
How does this compare to similar games?
It deliberately omits warfare and focuses on exploration and engine building, distinguishing it from many civilization games.
Is this suitable for families?
With a 12+ age recommendation and moderate complexity, it's better for families with older children and some game experience.
What mechanic makes it special?
The interplay of Tech Trees / Tech Tracks, Variable Player Powers and Worker Placement defines its core.
Fazit
A civilization-focused engine builder for players who prefer tech and development over combat. Good choice if you want a 90-minute, moderately complex experience.
Timespan at your next game night?
Add Timespan to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add Timespan to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
