Circadians: First Light

Circadians: First Light is a beautiful and engaging game that immerses you in a peaceful, exploratory adventure. The theme is wonderfully realized, with a sci-fi vibe reminiscent of classic Star Trek, but without the warfare. You lead a team of researchers on the planet of Ryh, interacting with various alien clans, trading, farming, building, and researching.

The gameplay is simultaneously strategic and flexible. You're encouraged to plan ahead but also be adaptable, making quick decisions as the situation changes. Managing your dice, representing your crew, is key to achieving your goals. The game rewards you for negotiating with the locals, gathering resources, upgrading your base, exploring, and collecting gems. Each round feels substantial, and the eight-round structure keeps the game moving at a good pace.

I've enjoyed playing with two and three players, and the game seems to scale well. I've yet to try it solo or with four players. The artwork is fun and whimsical, adding to the game's overall charm. It's a game that makes me feel rewarded for my efforts throughout, which is a hallmark of a great game. While I haven't played it extensively, it's already a regular part of my game rotation.

I'd rate Circadians: First Light highly. It's definitely worth checking out if you enjoy strategic, thematic games with a peaceful, exploration-focused narrative.