Blast-Off! 1969

info BGG:

Blast-Off can be classified simply as a race game using dice. However, it is appreciably more sophisticated than the 'go-back-3-spaces-&-miss-a-turn' type.

You start on earth with a space ship. The first step is to get your satellite into orbit when you have to effect a docking with your command capsule. This done, a landing must be made on the moon which is itself orbiting the earth. From there you set off on a package-tour of the planets and the first player to reach the farthest — Pluto — is the winner. In addition to dice-dictated movement, each space ship carries fuel for manoeuvering (necessary, for example, if you overshoot the moon: such minor mis-calculations are not infrequent since you lack the technical back-up enjoyed by Apollo).

When fuel is exhausted, a return must be made to earth or to the moon for replenishment (yes: unlimited supplies of propellants are now available in lunar repositories). A major hazard at all times is instability. Two consecutive low dice-throws mean that you haven't maintained orbital (or launch) velocity. Back to earth and start again. Controlled landings (by retro-rocket, of course) are preferable to just dropping out of the sky but you don't always have the option.

All the essential statistics are recorded on dials and these, together with the well-designed and colourful board add to the game's appeal.