AuZtralia

AuZtralia is a fascinating game that blends the mechanics of a classic train-laying and resource-management game with the thrilling elements of Lovecraftian horror. The concept of exploring and settling an alternate reality 1930s Australia, only to find yourself battling against slumbering Old Ones, is incredibly compelling.

The gameplay is fast-paced and engaging, and I love the strategic decisions involved in balancing resource acquisition, railway construction, military development, and dealing with the ever-growing threat of the Old Ones. Each action costs time, and the constant push-your-luck element of pushing your Time Point Track forward while avoiding the awakening of the Old Ones adds a layer of tension and strategic thinking.

The artwork and components are generally quite good, although some players have mentioned that the quality of the cardboard pieces is a bit underwhelming. The resource tokens and Old One tiles are particularly well-designed and thematic. However, the game has had some quality control issues with some copies having player boards printed in languages other than English. Luckily, Stronghold Games seems to be responsive to customer inquiries about this issue.

Overall, AuZtralia is a truly unique and enjoyable game. I particularly enjoyed the solo experience with its specific missions and the feeling of facing off against the Old Ones alone. However, the game's downtime can be significant with more than two players, which might discourage some players.

If you enjoy strategic games with a thrilling horror twist, AuZtralia is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to double-check the language of the player boards before purchasing!