SETI: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence
- Players
- 1-4
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 3 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 160 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 14+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 3.8 / 5
- Year
- 2024
About the game
SETI: Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence puts players in charge of a scientific institution racing to find signs of life beyond Earth. You launch probes to nearby planets and moons, decide whether to land for samples or stay in orbit for broader surveys, and point telescopes toward distant star systems in search of alien signals. Cards depicting real technologies and missions, from the ISS to the Voyager probes, help direct your research. Over five rounds, the institution with the most points wins the search.
Hobbli's Notes
SETI has quickly become a favorite among fans of space-themed engine-building euros, thanks to its grounding in real astronomy and space exploration technology. The tight five-round structure keeps a complex game moving at a reasonable pace. As a newer release, it hasn't been tested by years of community play the way older titles on this list have, but early reception has been very strong.
What we like
- Fresh space-exploration theme grounded in real science and missions.
- Tight five-round structure keeps the game moving despite its complexity.
- Strong solo mode.
- Satisfying card-driven customization of strategy.
Keep in mind
- High complexity may intimidate newcomers.
- As a newer release, long-term balance is less established than classic titles.
- Limited direct player interaction.
Who it's for
Euro-strategy fans who enjoy space-themed engine building, best in groups of 2 to 3 though playable solo up to 4, ages 14 and up.
