2019: The ARCTIC

Alchemicus.pl, Schwerkraft-Verlag, SINONIS · Board game · 2011
2–4 · best 2 120 min Weight 4.0/5
100.0 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Buy
100.0 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy dense games with lots of interaction and political/economic struggle, "2019: The Arctic" is for you! Brace yourself for a corporate cold war at the top of the world.

Highlights
  • Fierce influence struggle
  • Economic and political simulation
  • Direct player interaction
  • Deep, luck-free strategy
Keep in mind
  • High complexity
  • Steep learning curve
  • Can be tense for newcomers
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
In "2019: The Arctic," you're not just exploring ice, you're fighting for control of it! Imagine being the big boss of a mega-mineral corporation aiming to extract all the Arctic's resources. The game simulates a tense geopolitical struggle, where Canada and Russia issue a stern warning to the USA to stay out, and China also wants a slice of this frozen pie.

The goal is clear: stuff your pockets with points! And to do that, you'll need to be sharp. Invest heavily in exploration to find valuable mineral deposits and, crucially, dominate the production of a specific type of raw material to become the king of that market. But it's not just about planting your flag! You'll use your political power to influence the internal and external policies of the region's countries (Russia, Norway, Canada, USA, and even the European Union joins the fray!). Securing subsidies, protecting your investments in offshore mining platforms... everything is fair game to ensure your Arctic empire.

Prepare for heavy player interaction, with plenty of negotiation and actions that directly affect your rivals. Forget luck; here, pure strategy and the ability to manipulate the political and economic board are what count. It's a dense game, simulating economy and politics, where the order of actions can change everything. If you enjoy complex games with a strong theme and intense influence struggles, "2019: The Arctic" might be your next addiction.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 BEST
3 REC
4 REC
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Game details

Families

Country: Canada Country: Norway Country: Russia Country: USA Region: Arctic
Publisher Alchemicus.pl, Schwerkraft-Verlag, SINONIS
Designer Andrzej Kurek
Artist Radosław Jaszczuk, Sandra Kochanowska
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime?
Expect around 120 minutes for a full game, especially if players are learning the game's nuances.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 2 to 4 players, offering a more focused experience with fewer players and more competition with four.
Is the game very complicated to learn?
Yes, "2019: The Arctic" is considered a complex game. It requires dedication to understand all the mechanics and strategies involved.
Is there a lot of luck involved?
No, the game is known for having minimal luck. Success depends almost entirely on your strategic decisions and planning ability.
Is it a game more focused on economy or combat?
While there are military elements and influence struggles, the main focus is economic and political, with exploration and resource control being central.
Who would you recommend this game to?
Recommended for experienced players who enjoy complex strategic games with lots of interaction, negotiation, and a theme of geopolitical and corporate struggle.