Terraforming Mars

You buy project cards that increase your production, provide special effects, or contribute to global terraforming. During your turn, you take one or two actions, such as playing cards, building cities, placing greenery, funding awards, or claiming milestones. Your income grows along with your production and terraforming rating, allowing you to perform increasingly powerful actions. The game ends when temperature, oxygen, and oceans are fully restored—then the wealthiest and most influential corporation is declared the winner.

Terraforming Mars isn't a game you simply play, but one you gradually integrate into your system. It feels incredibly satisfying to watch your engine grow and gradually gain influence on the planet; every card you play, no matter how small, contributes to a larger whole. The interaction isn't in noisy moments, but in subtle timing, clever blocking, and opportunistic exploitation of what others are building. It's a game that rewards patience, yet never feels "slow" for a second—more like a strategic marathon where every decision matters.
If you enjoy engine building, thematic coherence, and a game where you can actually see something come into being, then Terraforming Mars remains an absolute top favorite.