90

On Mars is a complex strategy game where players work to develop the biggest and most advanced colony on Mars by achieving DOME mission goals and completing private company agendas. Players alternate between being in orbit around Mars and on the colony surface, with different actions available depending on their location, connected by shuttle phases that allow movement between the two areas.

90

The Verdict

based on 17 reviews

Positive 0%
Deep, strategic, and rewarding gameplay with many paths to victory.
Strong integration of theme and mechanics that creates an immersive experience.
High-quality components and visually appealing art and graphic design.
Interesting and challenging dual-board system representing orbit and the planet's surface.
A well-implemented and challenging solo mode.
Extremely high complexity and a steep learning curve that is not suitable for casual gamers.
The potential for long playing times, especially with new players or those prone to analysis paralysis.
The numerous interconnected systems can be overwhelming to learn and teach.
100
StatedThis reviewer gave their own score. We only converted it to our 0–100 scale.
Meeple Mountain, Justin BellArticle

The reviewer, despite usually preferring mid-weight games, highly recommends 'On Mars' for its exceptional depth, rewarding complex decisions, and outstanding production quality. They found the challenging, thematic gameplay consistently satisfying, making it a standout title for heavy strategy enthusiasts.

95
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Boardgame-News, William AukesArticle

The reviewer, a playtester, offers a positive evaluation of On Mars, praising its refreshing take on the familiar Mars theme and detailing its complex action selection mechanics. He aims to help prospective players decide if this intricate game is for them.

95
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Drive Thru Games, Joel EddyVideo

This video from Drive Thru Games offers a comprehensive review of the physical board game 'On Mars'. It includes an overview of the gameplay and final thoughts on the game.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
The Dice Tower, Chris and Wendy YiVideo

Chris and Wendy Yi review the complex board game On Mars, detailing its mechanics and various strategic paths. They offer personal insights and ultimately provide individual scores for the game.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Before You Play, Monique & Naveen (Before You Play)Video

This video by Before You Play features a comprehensive playthrough of the physical board game On Mars, including a rules overview, gameplay demonstration, scoring, and a dedicated review section at the end.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
No Pun Included, Efka Bladukas (No Pun Included)Video

This No Pun Included review thoroughly examines 'On Mars,' noting its substantial complexity as a Vital Lacerda design. The reviewers praise its cohesive gameplay and integrated mechanics, highlighting how all elements interconnect to create a compelling experience.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Everything DiceVideo

Everything Dice provides a comprehensive review of the physical board game On Mars, highlighting its appealing visuals and component quality, along with its effective approach to easing players into its complexity. The reviewer notes challenges with the rulebook's navigability.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Not Bored Gaming, MarkVideo

The reviewer enthusiastically praises "On Mars" for its outstanding mechanics, immersive thematic integration, and visually stunning production, noting that while the solo mode is enjoyable, it serves best as preparation for the main multiplayer experience.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Zen Of Design, Damion SchubertArticle

Despite its punishingly heavy complexity and interconnected cascading effects, this grounded Martian colonization game stands out as Vital Lacerda's finest design.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Joyful GamesArticleTop List

If you love the Martian setting of Terraforming Mars, On Mars offers an even more detailed and immersive strategic experience.

See list
90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Never Bored Gaming, Tom and WesVideo

This video from Never Bored Gaming provides a detailed review and personal insights into the board game 'On Mars'. It discusses the game's mechanics and overall player experience to help viewers understand its appeal.

90
InferredThis reviewer didn't give a numbered score. We read the review and inferred a 0–100 score from what they said. Did we get it wrong? Please report it, we'll fix it.
Punchboard, AdamArticle

On Mars is a brilliantly complex and deeply thematic heavy Eurogame that brilliantly intertwines worker-placement and tile-placement. It is punishing to learn and play, but offers an intensely rewarding strategic experience, particularly at higher player counts.

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