[Full Review] On Mars with Upgrade Pack - Vital Lacerda's Masterpiece Delivers the Ultimate Mars Colonization Experience
An epic adventure awaits as you build a colony on Mars.
On Mars , a 2020 heavyweight strategy game created by Vital Lacerda , has been praised by board gamers around the world as a game that "requires so much thought that your brain will still be hot 30 minutes after playing."
In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive review of both the game and the upgrade pack, and explain in detail why this game is being called " Lacerda's masterpiece ."
Game Basics
We will introduce the detailed specifications of this authentic strategy board game themed around the development of Mars.
On Mars has the following specifications:
- Designer : Vital Lacerda
- Publisher : Eagle-Gryphon Games
- Players : 1-4
- Play time : 90-180 minutes
- Ages : 14 and up
The complexity rating on BoardGameGeek is a high 4.63/5.0 , making it a game aimed at heavy game enthusiasts.
The upgrade pack includes the following:
- Blueprint Board
- 12 Additional Contract Cards
- 6 Private Goal Cards
These are "a bundle of extra elements from the Kickstarter campaign" that will further enhance the main game.
The core mechanic of the game is a "selection of actions" game .
The game progresses by repeating two phases: the "Colonization Phase" and the "Shuttle Phase."
Players "take on the role of lead astronaut for a private space exploration company, striving to be the best contributor to a new colony on Mars."
On Mars: The essence of next-gen strategy gaming
Here are four innovative features that break new ground in heavyweight strategy games.
Overwhelming strategic depth
Described as a game where "every decision in the game requires a great deal of thought, and you'll be surprised by every move, every decision, and every moment of agony, " On Mars ' greatest appeal lies in its strategic depth.
Players can choose different actions depending on whether they are in orbit or on the surface of Mars .
The following actions are possible in orbit :
- Obtaining blueprints
- Technology Development
- Resource Procurement
The following actions are possible on the surface of Mars :
- Building Construction
- Building Upgrades
- Scientist employment
- Welcoming new ships
- Planetary surface exploration using rovers
Innovative Life Support System (LSS)
The Life Support System (LSS) is a public indicator of the colony's development.
It consists of four columns (Energy, Water, Plants, and Oxygen), and when each column reaches the next threshold, the LSS level increases and the game state changes.
This system allows you to experience the growth of a Mars colony in the game: as the LSS increases, the colony becomes more self-sufficient and less dependent on orbital supplies.
A perfect blend of thematic and mechanical elements
"On Mars expresses a yearning for hope and possibility that ideas that were once science fiction are just within reach," making it unique and more than just "another Mars game."
The resource circulation system, in which colonists mine ore, the ore creates energy, the energy melts ice to collect water, the water grows plants, the plants create oxygen, and the oxygen sustains human life and expands the population, brilliantly recreates the elements necessary for a real Mars colony in a game.
High-quality production
The physical experience is also first-rate.
- Excellent artwork by Ian O'Toole
- High-quality components from Eagle-Gryphon Games
- "Just holding the heavy red mission marker feels amazing."
As the review states, "This is a luxury item, for players who invest in production rather than rushing to grab their next meal at a fast food restaurant," and it is a product that satisfies the desire to own it .
Concerns and solutions
We will present the challenges unique to heavyweight games and propose effective solutions for each of them.
High complexity and learning curve
"On Mars is dense, but don't be intimidated by its complexity rating of 4.5+. Learning the rules isn't that difficult; it's the interconnectedness of the game's subsystems that takes effort to understand."
The solution : "It takes one full playthrough to fully understand the game, but after that the mechanical nuances blossom and the game really opens up to you," so it's important to treat your first playthrough as a learning experience .
Long playtime
You'll need to set aside time, as "On Mars takes about 1.5-3 hours, depending on the number of players."
Tips : "Experienced players can complete it in under two hours, and there's a shortened 'First Colonist' variant available," so you can adjust it to your needs .
The risk of analysis paralysis
The challenge is that in the hands of someone who really suffers from analysis paralysis, it can easily become a four-hour game, or at worst, a game where you wait 10+ minutes between moves.
Solution : It's important to know your community. Understand the characteristics of your gaming group and set time limits if necessary to ensure a comfortable experience.
Recommended for these people and occasions
We'll introduce you to the ideal player profile and gaming environment where On Mars shines the best.
Heavyweight game enthusiast
As the author states, "I would hesitate to recommend On Mars to casual gamers. If this is your first time playing a Vital game, you should consider starting with Vinhos Deluxe Edition." It is best suited for players with some experience in heavy gaming .
Game party for 3-4 people
"On Mars shines at higher player counts. 3-4 player games are a favorite, with players constantly evaluating each other's tableaus and considering the consequences of borrowing technology and advanced buildings," making it ideal for multiplayer gaming .
Space and SF fan
"I love On Mars because I'm a huge fan of great science fiction. It's pure strategy at the highest level, a theme I always enjoy," he says, adding that the content will be especially appealing to those who enjoy space exploration and sci-fi themes .
Those who value replayability
As described, "The replayability is infinite, like the universe. I can't imagine how it's possible to get bored of this game," making it perfect for anyone looking for a game they can enjoy for a long time .
In conclusion , On Mars is a masterpiece of a next-generation strategy board game that lives up to its reputation: "On Mars is bold. On Mars is ambitious. On Mars is extraordinary."
Together with the upgrade pack, you can fully experience the grand theme of Mars colonization, making this a work truly worthy of being called " Lacerda's masterpiece ."
If you're up for a heavyweight challenge, be sure to join us on this Martian adventure.
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