Review Details

Race for the Galaxy

Product Rating:

Product Review (submitted on November 28, 2009):

As mentioned in other reviews, Race for the Galaxy is definitely derived from the mechanics of San Juan. Unlike San Juan, however, there appears to be more explanation required when teaching Race for the Galaxy and some may not like the overhead of understanding the rules and all the symbols (it takes everyone a while). For example 3 seasoned players taught a new player the game but it took a full hour to complete the game, and even then the new person wasn't completely up to speed.

But if you look past the obvious learning curve, the game definitely adds a layer of finish to San Juan like play, that makes it both interesting and fun to play. Differing strategies can lead to different results, and the choice of which phases to enact during a round can become strategic without becoming overwhelming. One benefit of the phase play, for those familiar with San Juan, is that a phases powers can be used by as many players who choose the phase, instead of one person taking a role and everyone else being denied its benefits. This was one gripe I had with San Juan, as depending on turn order, someone might never get the governor card that they want.

Lastly this is a game that has only gotten better with time. As it has become quite clear that the maker (Tom Lehmann) will be supporting this game through expansions, and because these expansions have added even more value to a great game, it is unlikely to rest long on my game shelf without getting another play.