Moon Base

itten, Gen-X Games (GenX), Gigamic · Board game · 2019
7.0 Ludopedia 6.8 BGG 2 · best 2 30–60 min Weight 2.3/5
Buy · from US$ 17.53
7.0 rating Ludopedia
6.8 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

For those who enjoy an abstract two-player game with a space theme and a touch of area control strategy, Moon Base is a solid choice! The 3D construction and crater dynamics add a special charm.

Highlights
  • Smart blocking strategy
  • Engaging 3D building
  • Unique board dynamics
  • Quick, tense matches
Keep in mind
  • Can feel a bit too abstract
  • Relies on reading opponent
  • Limited replayability for some
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready for a fierce competition on the Moon in Moon Base, an abstract two-player game that unfolds over six rounds of pure strategy. Each turn is a chance to expand your lunar base by placing and stacking modules in overlapping craters. The trick is to use your colored rings wisely to dominate the area with your color. At the end of each round, whoever has the most points in residential zones and resource facilities gains an advantage. But don't forget the ultimate goal: strategically move the mobile research building to secure bonus points at the end of the game. With each round, the board's layout changes, requiring you to think ahead and adapt. The beauty of Moon Base lies in its elegant simplicity: a board with overlapping craters that dynamically changes with each play, forcing important tactical decisions. Modules can be stacked, adding an extra layer of depth and the possibility of fun 'if only I had placed it there!' regrets. Even though it's abstract, the random setup of modules at the beginning adds a twist, but from then on, it's purely your decision. It's a game that grows in intensity, especially in the sixth round, when final bonuses can turn the game around. In the end, you look at the base you've built and take pride in this collaborative (and competitive!) creation.

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Players: Two-Player Only Games Space: Colonization / Extraterrestrial Colonisation Space: Earth's Moon
Publisher itten, Gen-X Games (GenX), Gigamic
Designer Naotaka Shimamoto
Artist Yoshiaki Tomioka

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

503owners
167wishlist
25want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How many players can play Moon Base?
Moon Base is exclusively a two-player game, perfect for a strategic duel.
How long does a game take?
A game of Moon Base typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the players' familiarity with the game.
What is the complexity of Moon Base?
With a medium weight of 2.25/5 on BGG, Moon Base is considered a moderately complex game, accessible to those who already have some experience with board games.
Is there a lot of luck involved in the game?
Moon Base is predominantly a strategy game. While the initial setup of modules may have an element of randomness, the decisions made during the game are the main factor for victory.
Is it a good game for someone starting to play more complex games?
Yes, it can be a good step. It introduces mechanics like area control and strategic planning in an accessible way, without being overly complicated.
Is the space theme well represented?
The space theme serves more as a backdrop for the abstract strategy. Don't expect a deep exploration simulation, but the lunar base construction adds an interesting thematic touch.

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