Star Scrappers: Orbital

If you enjoy a space-themed sci-fi setting mixed with solid strategy, Star Scrappers: Orbital puts you right in the commander's chair. Designed by Jacob Fryxelius, the mastermind behind Terraforming Mars, this game is a streamlined, thematic evolution of his earlier Space Station title. Your mission is to build the most efficient space station in the Sybil Cloud asteroid belt, where the race to extract the precious Hexis mineral is heating up.

The game spans five rounds, representing five years of construction and development. You start with a single core module, and each year you expand your station by playing new module cards from your hand. Success depends on how you manage your hand, your finances, and your crew. Money pays for new modules, while crew members unlock special abilities that can turn the tide of your strategy.

Gameplay is smooth and intuitive: players take turns building, using module actions, playing events, or repairing. The clever part is that your station's structure determines your income and crew count for the next turn, creating a satisfying engine-building loop. At the end of each year, players compete for majorities in six different module colors, which awards victory points. It’s the kind of game where every choice matters, and you need to keep a close eye on your opponents' stations to ensure you don't fall behind in the galactic race.

With a moderate complexity level, it’s perfect for players who want a game that isn't overly taxing but still offers plenty of strategic depth. The setting is vibrant, filled with corporations, mercenary guilds, and diverse alien species that bring the space western theme to life. If you enjoy engine-building games with a dash of indirect interaction and want to see who can build the most impressive outpost in the galaxy, Star Scrappers: Orbital is a fantastic addition to any game night.