CloudAge

Nanox Games, Board Game Rookie, Capstone Games · Board game · 2020
1–4 · best 3 Solo 60–100 min Weight 2.8/5
8.2 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
8.2 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for those who love campaign games with organic progression and dystopian themes. The airship upgrade system is addictive!

Highlights
  • Smooth learning curve via campaign
  • Original resource collection mechanic
  • Very rewarding progression feeling
  • Immersive and dark setting
Keep in mind
  • Moderate language dependency
  • Medium complexity for beginners
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Imagine a world where everything went wrong. Fifteen years ago, a secret society known as 'Cloud' decided that the best way to dominate the planet was by burning down forests and sabotaging oil production. The result? A catastrophic environmental disaster that left the earth dry and uninhabitable. Now, the only way to survive is by navigating the skies in airships, searching for any sign of a better life and basic resources. This is the dystopian setting of CloudAge.

In the game, you take command of your own airship and must explore this desolate map. The dynamics are intense: you visit cities, deploy drones to mine resources, and, of course, clash with the Cloud militia to ensure your survival. The standout feature here is an innovative sleeving mechanism that transforms how resource gathering works. You'll have to predict what is hidden beneath the clouds—will you find the resource you need or just more trouble?

The heart of the game is engine-building. You use the collected resources to upgrade your airship or recruit new crew members who bring unique abilities, creating that satisfying feeling of progression. All of this is wrapped in a smart campaign system. Instead of tackling a massive rulebook all at once, rules and new elements are introduced gradually, chapter by chapter, making the learning curve smooth. You don't just play; you help shape the story of this world. And if you're in a hurry or just want to test the mechanics, there are standalone story spin-offs that can be played as single scenarios. It's the perfect blend of deck-building, resource management, and narrative, ideal for those who love feeling their character truly grow in a hostile environment.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
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3 BEST
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Game details

Families

Mechanism: Campaign Games Theme: Airships / Blimps / Dirigibles / Zeppelins Theme: Post-Apocalyptic
Publisher Nanox Games, Board Game Rookie, Capstone Games, dlp games, Hobby World, Maldito Games, Mandoo Games, Matagot, Surfin' Meeple China, 株式会社ケンビル (KenBill)
Designer Alexander Pfister, Arno Steinwender
Artist Christian Opperer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game hard to learn?
Not at all! The campaign system introduces rules gradually, so you learn as you play without needing to memorize the entire manual upfront.
Can I play it solo?
Yes, the game supports 1 to 4 players and works great in solo mode.
How long does a game take?
Sessions vary between 60 and 100 minutes, depending on the scenario or chapter.
Is it language dependent?
Yes, there is moderate language dependency, meaning you'll need to read the cards or use a translation guide.
Do I have to play the campaign?
No, there are standalone story spin-offs that can be played as single scenarios.
What is the gameplay style?
It's a mix of deck-building, resource management, and grid-based exploration.