First Rat

Pegasus Spiele, Across the Board, CMON Global Limited · Board game · 2022
1–5 · best 4 Solo 30–75 min Weight 2.3/5
8.2 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
8.2 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for those who enjoy medium-strategy games with absurd themes and fun components.

Highlights
  • Creative and funny theme
  • Smart tactical movement
  • Well-implemented solo mode
  • Satisfying resource progression
Keep in mind
  • Initial learning curve
  • Interaction can be punishing
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Ever wondered if the Moon is actually made of cheese? For the rats of a local junkyard, this isn't just a myth—it's a life goal! After stumbling upon some old comics about the first moon landing, these rodents decided it's time to build their own rocket and conquer the ultimate dairy treasure. The catch? They need materials, and the junkyard is the perfect place to scavenge everything from tin cans to baking soda. Other animals are willing to help, but they aren't doing it for free; they want to be paid!

In the game, you lead your rat family, moving them across the board to gather resources. The movement system is clever: you can either move one rat several spaces or coordinate a group of rats, provided they all end up on spaces of the same color. Just be careful: if you land on a space occupied by another player's rat, you'll have to pay a cheese 'toll'.

The core of the game lies in resource management and efficiency. You can invest in lights to boost your future income, buy backpacks and bottle caps to carry more loot, or even risk a theft (though that sends your rat back to the start). Your ultimate goal is to build rocket sections and train 'rattronauts'. The more rocket parts you build and the more rats you send on the mission, the more points you score. The game ends when a player puts their fourth rat on the ship or reaches eight scoring markers. It's a delightful blend of racing, set collection, and strategy, all wrapped in an absurdly fun theme. Whether playing with friends or in solo mode, the mission is clear: be the first to reach the lunar feast!
Rules videos

In English

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Game details

Families

Animals: Rats Category: Combinatorial Misc: LongPack Games Players: Games with Solitaire Rules Space: Earth's Moon Theme: Trash / Garbage
Publisher Pegasus Spiele, Across the Board, CMON Global Limited, Gémklub, Geronimo Games, HANALL M&C, Hobby Japan, MYBG Co., Ltd., Nasza Księgarnia
Designer Gabriele Ausiello, Virginio Gigli
Artist Dennis Lohausen
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game too complex?
It has a medium weight (2.27 on BGG), so it's not a super simple entry-level game, but nothing impossible. If you're familiar with board games, you'll pick it up quickly.
Can I play it alone?
Yes! The game includes a dedicated solo mode for those who want to test their space-building strategies on their own.
How long does a game take?
Usually between 30 to 75 minutes, depending on the player count and how much time you spend planning your moves.
Who would you recommend this to?
Anyone who enjoys set collection games and loves unusual, humorous themes.
Is it competitive or cooperative?
It's competitive! While everyone is 'working' on the rocket, each rat family wants the biggest slice of the lunar cheese in the end.