Is Zathura a Real Board Game?

Have you ever wondered if the popular board game Zathura is based on a real-life game? Well, you’re not alone. Many enthusiasts and casual players alike have pondered over this question. In this article, we’ll delve into the origins of Zathura, its gameplay, and whether it’s truly inspired by a real board game or simply a creative invention.

Origins of Zathura

Zathura, a board game that combines elements of adventure, strategy, and teamwork, was first released in 2003. The game was designed by Reiner Knizia, a renowned game designer known for his innovative and engaging designs. The game’s name is derived from the 2001 science fiction film of the same name, which was inspired by the book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg.

The Gameplay

Now, let’s talk about the gameplay. Zathura is played by two to four players, each controlling a spaceship. The objective of the game is to explore the universe, collect resources, and build structures on various planets. The game board consists of a hexagonal grid, with each space representing a different planet or celestial body. Players move their spaceships around the board, collecting resources and completing tasks to earn points.

One of the unique aspects of Zathura is the use of a dice tower. Instead of rolling dice, players use the dice tower to determine their movement and actions. This adds a layer of strategy and unpredictability to the game, as players must plan their moves in advance to maximize their chances of success.

Is Zathura Based on a Real Board Game?

So, is Zathura a real board game inspired by another game, or is it a completely original creation? The answer is a bit complex. While Zathura is not a direct adaptation of another existing board game, it does share some similarities with other popular games in the genre.

One of the most notable similarities is with the game “Cosmic Encounter,” which was released in 1980. Both games feature a hexagonal board and involve exploring the universe, collecting resources, and interacting with other players. However, Zathura’s gameplay is more focused on building structures and completing tasks, while Cosmic Encounter emphasizes negotiation and diplomacy.

Another game that shares some similarities with Zathura is “Space Alert,” which was released in 2016. Both games involve teamwork and strategy, as players must work together to complete missions and avoid disasters. However, Space Alert is a cooperative game, while Zathura is competitive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Zathura is not a direct adaptation of another existing board game, but it does draw inspiration from other popular games in the genre. The game’s unique gameplay, combined with its engaging theme and innovative mechanics, has made it a favorite among board game enthusiasts. So, while Zathura may not be a real board game inspired by another game, it certainly stands on its own as a creative and enjoyable game experience.

Game	Similarities	Differences
Cosmic Encounter	Hexagonal board, exploring the universe, collecting resources	Focus on negotiation and diplomacy, no building structures
Space Alert	Teamwork, strategy, completing missions	Cooperative game, Zathura is competitive