Moonrakers

Moonrakers is a 2020 strategy and thematic card game designed by Max Anderson, Zac Dixon, and Austin Harrison, featuring artwork by Lunar Saloon. Published by IV Studio (IV Games) and one more publisher, it is designed for 1 to 5 players, with a playing time of 60 to 120 minutes and an age recommendation of 14+. The game falls into the category of card game science fiction and employs various gameplay mechanisms, including action points, deck-building, bag and pool building, dice rolling, hand management, negotiation, and trading.
In Moonrakers, players take on the roles of mercenaries vying for control of the galaxy's outlaw coalition known as "The Moonrakers." The objective is to become the leader of this coalition, but alliances among players are tenuous as they compete against each other. The game revolves around shipbuilding, temporary alliances, and shrewd negotiation in a futuristic space-faring setting.
Players select Contracts to undertake, either individually or with Allies, to earn Prestige and Credits. Negotiations with Allies determine the terms of cooperation. Action cards in their decks, such as Thrusters, Shields, Weapons, Reactors, and Crew, are used to fulfill the contract requirements. Each type of Action card provides additional effects, such as extra Actions, card draws, and hazard protection during contract attempts.
Players enhance their decks and gain special abilities by upgrading their ships and recruiting Crew Members. This enables them to tackle more challenging and rewarding contracts solo, increasing their Prestige and Credits. However, the negotiation aspect comes into play as Allies determine the distribution of Prestige, Credits, and the risk of Hazards from Contracts. Offers that lack appeal might lead to betrayal. The game concludes when a player reaches 10 Prestige points, but hazards encountered during Contracts can reduce their Prestige.
== Awards and honors ==
Moonrakers has received the following awards and honors:
*2020 Cardboard Republic Daredevil Laurel Winner
*2020 Cardboard Republic Daredevil Laurel Nominee
== External links ==
*Moonrakers Wiki
Category:Card games