Sunday, May 26, 2024

#15: Terraforming Mars (Mark's Top 100 2024)

Terraforming Mars

    • rank: 7
    • rating: 8.4
    • published: 2016
    • Jacob Fryxelius
    Print Status
    • in print
    Why It's On The List
    • Despite my attempts to avoid Terraforming Mars for a number of years, this game sucked me in. It combines hand management, resource management, engine-building, leeching off other players work, racing to complete goals, and even a bit of take that. And it works.
    Tips & Tricks:
      • While I get why some people like it with a full complement of five players, I think I enjoy it more with 2-3 players or as a solo game.
      • Resist the urge to throw everything into the game for first-timers... there's a lot to process. It's also helpful to explain why you are doing what you are doing during their first game - just not in an obnoxious manner.
      • It's important to build the engine you have/draw rather than the one you wish you had. It's a long enough game that wishing you were doing something different can make seem unending.
      Extras
      • There are a LOT of expansions for this game system - I own all of them. The only two I think are really necessary, though, are Prelude and the Hellas/Elysium alternate map.
      • Thanks to the generosity of a good friend, I also own the 3D pieces... and they are a delight.
      • I would recommend a better individual play mat for each player than the one provided... something that makes it less likely that a table bump would end the game.
      • I like Terraforming Mars: Ares Expedition - which feels like they cross-breeded Terraforming Mars with Race for the Galaxy - but it really needs the expansions to shine.

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