# High Frontier (Third Edition)

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2017
- **BGG Rating**: 8.1
- **BGG Rank**: #2768
- **Players**: 1-5 (Best with: 3)
- **Duration**: 120-240 min
- **Weight**: 4.68 / 5
- **Designers**: Phil Eklund
- **Artists**: Antonio Pinar, Nick Stevens, Phil Eklund
- **Publishers**: Sierra Madre Games, One Small Step
- **Categories**: Civilization, Industry / Manufacturing, Science Fiction, Space Exploration
- **Mechanics**: Auction / Bidding, Simulation, Variable Player Powers

## Verdict
If you love building space empires and aren’t scared of a long game, High Frontier will hook you.Detailed orbital simulationUnique player powersStrategic biddingHigh‑quality componentsSteep learning curveGames can run up to 4 hoursRequires constant attentionHIGHLY RECOMMENDED

## Description
High Frontier (3rd edition) puts you at the helm of a space enterprise aiming to leave a mark on the cosmos. Each player starts with three water tanks – used as fuel – and, on each turn, has two action points to spend on eight possible actions, such as moving a ship, purchasing new technologies, or opening bids for strategic routes. The goal? Build bases on planets and asteroids until a predetermined number of installations is reached, then the player with the most victory points wins. The deluxe edition bundles the base game and the Colonization expansion, adding 31 new card designs, revamped charts, and rules split into four volumes: Basic, Colonization, Interstellar, and Super‑Advanced Variants. The game blends intense auctions, detailed orbital simulation, and unique player powers, ensuring each playthrough feels fresh. While the learning curve is steep and a game can run two to four hours, fans of long‑term planning, resource management, and the feeling of truly building a space civilization will fall in love. Components are sturdy, featuring an interplanetary‑scale map that dominates the table, fuel tokens, technology cards, and ship miniatures. In short, High Frontier is a space‑exploration simulator that rewards deep strategy and daring choices, perfect for groups that enjoy heavy, thematic gaming.

## FAQ
### How long does a typical game last?
Usually between 2 and 4 hours, depending on player count and familiarity with the rules.

### What is the ideal number of players?
The game supports 1‑5 players, but 3‑4 tends to provide the best balance of interaction and pace.

### Is it suitable for beginners?
Not really; the learning curve is steep and the simulation mechanics can be daunting for newcomers.

### What components are included in the box?
An interplanetary map, fuel tokens, technology cards, ship miniatures, base markers, and several auxiliary boards.

### Do I need any additional expansions?
The 3rd edition already bundles the Colonization expansion, so no extra purchases are required to experience the full game.