Best 14 Science Fiction Board Games of 2024 Reviewed
Hey fellow space explorers and alien enthusiasts! We’ve been on a cosmic quest to find the universe’s best science fiction board games, and boy, do we have some stellar picks for you. When curating this list, we looked for games that blast us into the depths of space, offer mind-bending strategies, and, most importantly, promise a galaxy of fun with friends. From building intergalactic empires to surviving alien invasions, these games cover a wide range of ‘science fiction’ themes. So, buckle up your asteroid belts – we’re about to take you on a warp-speed tour through the best science fiction board games the galaxy has to offer.
On this list:
14 Race for the Galaxy
We kicked off our science fiction board game marathon with Race for the Galaxy. This game had us building galactic civilizations using cards that represent worlds or technical and social developments. It’s fast-paced, strategic, and the symbols had us scratching our heads at first, but once we got the hang of it, we couldn’t stop playing. It’s perfect for strategy lovers who enjoy building empires but in space!
13 Cosmic Encounter
Next up, Cosmic Encounter threw us into a universe of infinite possibilities. Every game is a new adventure with 50 alien species fighting for control of the galaxy. Negotiations, battles, and alliances form quickly and break even faster. It’s a wild ride of strategy and social manipulation, perfect for those who love a bit of chaos and humor in their space conquests.
12 Star Realms
Star Realms had us at the edge of our seats as we duked it out with decks of spaceships and starbases. This deck-building game is simple to learn but offers deep strategic play as you decide whether to focus on military might, trade, or a mix of both. It’s quick, competitive, and addictive, especially if you love direct head-to-head action.
11 Terraforming Mars
Terraforming Mars was the game that had us pretending we were Elon Musk, but cooler. We worked to make Mars habitable, balancing resource management and strategic planning. It’s a thinker’s game, where every action could lead to victory or utter disaster. The game’s depth and complexity make it a hit for anyone who enjoys a challenging, yet rewarding, science fiction-themed board game.
10 Twilight Imperium
Twilight Imperium is an epic game of galactic conquest, politics, and trade. It’s a whole day’s commitment, but so worth it. Imagine the drama of Star Wars but you’re in charge. It combines everything we love about science fiction board games into one massive experience. You’ll negotiate, fight, deceive, and strategize your way to victory. It’s for the hardcore players who love depth and complexity.
9 Galaxy Trucker
Galaxy Trucker had us laughing as we raced to build spacecrafts out of sewer pipes. It’s chaotic, fast-paced, and utterly delightful. You build a spaceship and then watch it face all sorts of disasters. It’s fun, accessible, and perfect for those who enjoy a blend of strategy and humor. Plus, seeing your friend’s meticulously built ship get torn to shreds by asteroids never gets old.
8 Eclipse
In Eclipse, we found ourselves at the helm of vast interstellar civilizations, competing for success. It’s a perfect blend of empire-building, resource management, and epic space battles. If you’ve ever wanted to rule a galaxy without all the politics of Twilight Imperium, this is the game for you. It balances strategic depth with accessibility, making it a hit for both newbies and veterans of science fiction board games.
7 Android: Netrunner
Android: Netrunner took us to a dystopian future where we dove into the roles of hackers and megacorps. It’s a game of cat and mouse, with thrilling runs on fortified servers and strategic deck-building. The asymmetrical gameplay provides endless replayability and challenges. For those who enjoy a good cyberpunk story with their strategic gameplay, Android: Netrunner is a must-try.
6 Scythe
Scythe transported us to an alternate 1920s Europa, blending dieselpunk aesthetics with strategic gameplay. It’s not just a war game; it’s an engine-building, resource-managing powerhouse with beautiful artwork. The game rewards strategic planning and adaptability, with a balanced mix of combat and development. It’s perfect for gamers looking for a deep, engaging experience with a unique science fiction twist.
5 Nemesis
Nemesis threw us into a survival horror scenario aboard a spaceship, reminiscent of the Alien movies. It’s a semi-cooperative game where trust is as scarce as the resources. The tension, strategic decision-making, and horror elements combine to create an unforgettable experience. Perfect for those who love a good thrill and the challenge of surviving against all odds.
4 The Crew: Quest for Planet Nine
The Crew: Quest for Planet Nine is a cooperative trick-taking game that had us exploring space on a mission to find a mysterious planet. It’s easy to learn but offers a deep and engaging challenge as you progress through the missions. The teamwork and problem-solving aspects make it a standout choice for those who enjoy working together to achieve a common goal.
3 Arkham Horror: The Card Game
While not purely science fiction, Arkham Horror: The Card Game blends sci-fi elements with supernatural horror in an enthralling narrative-driven experience. As investigators, we delved into mysteries that felt like they were straight out of a Lovecraftian novel. It’s a game of mind-bending adventures and strategic planning, perfect for those who enjoy a rich story along with their gameplay.
2 Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven might lean more towards fantasy, but its integration of science fiction elements in a deep, tactical RPG board game is too good not to mention. We embarked on epic quests, battled monsters, and upgraded our gear in a sprawling, story-driven adventure. It’s the ultimate game for those who love detailed narratives, complex strategies, and immersive worlds.
1 Spirit Island
Last but not least, Spirit Island stands out as the best in our science fiction-themed gaming adventures. While it flips the usual colonization narrative, offering a refreshing perspective, it’s the strategic depth, cooperative gameplay, and thematic richness that had us all hooked. Each player becomes a different spirit, working together to protect their island from invaders. The game is a brilliant blend of complexity, strategy, and thematic engagement, providing an unparalleled cooperative experience.
