Corrosion
- Players
- 1-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 2 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 120 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 3.3 / 5
- Year
- 2021
About the game
Corrosion casts each player as a factory manager in a steampunk world, deploying engineer cards to build production and scoring engines before rust sets in. Turning your factory's corrosion wheel activates machines and returns engineers to hand, but it also ages your gears: pushing you to invest in rustproof chrome components to stay efficient. Opponents can copy your engineer's action by playing a higher-graded card of the same suit, adding a layer of tension to every turn. With deck and bag building, contracts, and a rondel-driven engine, Corrosion is a dense, engine-optimization game for one to four players.
Hobbli's Notes
Corrosion is a meaty engine-builder with an unusual twist: your own machines decaying is baked into the core loop, so efficiency isn't just about building up, it's about managing entropy. The engineer-copying mechanic keeps everyone engaged even outside their own turn, which is a nice touch for a game this heavy. It's dense and a bit fiddly to teach, but it rewards players who like optimization puzzles.
What we like
- The corrosion wheel adds a unique push-your-luck decay mechanic to engine building.
- Letting opponents copy your engineer actions keeps every turn interactive.
- Deck and bag building give the game strong long-term depth.
- Solid solo mode makes it flexible for smaller groups.
Keep in mind
- High complexity may overwhelm players new to engine-builders.
- Long 120-minute playtime demands a committed group.
- The interlocking systems require careful upfront teaching.
Who it's for
Aimed at experienced strategy gamers ages 14+ who enjoy engine-building and resource optimization; works well solo or in groups of 2-4.
