the science of play at work
The Crew
Embark on an intergalactic adventure in this thrilling cooperative card game
PLAYERS
Minimum:
3
Maximum:
5
Ideal:
4
EXPERIENCE
Duration:
Medium
Physical:
Yes
Virtual:
Yes
CLASSIFICATION
Genre:
Cooperative
Dynamic 1:
Dynamic 2:
Critical thinking
Strategy development
COMPLEXITY
To Play:
Simple
To Setup:
Simple
To Custom:
Advanced
MATRIX
Instinct:
Act
Intent:
How
BONDING
Materials
VIRTUAL SETUP
Because of the specificity of pieces and mission log, it's recommended to buy the physical game here.
Physical Setup
First, orient the group with the mission log book and trick-taking goals.
Next, shuffle the big deck and deal all the cards equally
Finally, reveal the mission and place the relevant small cards and trick restrictions in play
Virtual Setup
Sites like Board Game Arena have created a simulation space for this game to play with others. Each player will need a free account.
Gameplay
Captain: Whoever is dealt the 4 Rocket card announces themself as the captain. This role decides who should win the different mission tricks. They hand the small cards as indicators of the group's goal.
First Trick: The Captian leads by playing a card from their hand. Other players do the same in clockwise order until all have played. The highest value card in the lead suit (or highest Rocket card; trump suit) wins the trick. They lead the next trick.
Strategy: Players work together to exchange leads and information while playing tricks, ultimately claiming the tricks they need to pass the mission.
Endgame: When a mission has been completed, the team moves to the next mission. There are 50 missions, each harder than the last.
Variations
The creators have designed parallel games with slightly different stories. The original game is about a space mission.
Pulse Check
Q. Does everyone seem open to keep playing? Are the disengaged able to be more engaged?
Q. Are people having fun — smiling, laughing, in deep thought?
Q. Do you hear productive strategizing about how to improve round-to-round?
BUILDING
Act
Position the reflection around the need to be in motion and see measurable progress:
How did your team define success? What indicated you were on the right track?
What game insights can you apply to better handle future times of crisis or uncertainty?
Did this game give you any ideas about how to activate team skills and resources in new ways?
How
Position the reflection around pathways and resources for accomplishing goals and future growth:
How did the team organize itself around the rules and objectives?
Did conflict or miscommunication affect the game? How might you address that for next time?
Would more time, people, or resources have shifted the team's approach? How so?