Orbit is a game of space exploration for 2-6 players set in the solar system. It is aimed at adults and children aged 10+ and a typical game takes between 45 minutes and 2 hours depending on the number of players.
In Orbit players take control of an international space agency exploring the solar system. Players will have to develop their agency whilst traversing the solar system to achieve objectives and complete missions. This will earn them points and the player with the most points at the end of the game is the winner.
The planets orbit the sun at the end of each round, carrying orbiting and landed spacecraft with them; this simple trick brings a breadth of complexity to the strategic and logistical challenges faced by the players. Whilst easy to learn, it is difficult to master and can catch out even experienced players as they quest to explore the outer planets.
Orbit contains a two dimensional map of the solar system and 8 card planets which are moved on orbits around the sun. There are six teams to choose from, and each team has its own unique starting abilities as shown on the space agency board. The abilities of the agencies are tracked using dials on the agency boards which will change throughout the game. Teams additionally come with an astronaut, 3 rockets and fuel discs. There is also a deck of playing cards, 18 ‘Pioneer’ cards and 32 ‘Mission’ cards with specific objectives and 6 summary cards to summarise the key rules. An 8 page rulebook is also supplied.
If you’d like to hear more, we suggest you see what Games Night Guru say about Orbit in their Review!
