Star Hopper

Up to six players deploy spaceships from the space station and send them out into the galaxy, waiting for permission to colonize various star systems. The first to colonize four star systems wins. Players can learn names and characteristics of stars, and the rule book teaches principles of astronomy and astrophysics. Young children able to take direction and match colors and numbers can easily play along. “A colorful board and card deck and easy rules make this an easy buy with parents and teachers, whether they want to spark an interest in the universe or just want to create imaginative fun,” CEO Mark Salzwedel of Strategic Space told TDmonthly. Launch date: July 2009.