The board game industry has changed the way players approach strategy and immersion, and Anachrony: Fractures of Time stands as a testament to that evolution. Since the activation of the Time Rifts on the Day of Reminiscence, the game’s universe has expanded in both depth and complexity. Shared visions of a fifth Time Rift above Ground Zero marked a turning point, shifting focus from individual Path affiliations to a unified future through the Path of Unity.   

This first major expansion revolutionizes gameplay with the introduction of Flux technology and the powerful mechanic of Blinking, offering new layers of tactical decision-making. In this article, we explore the most effective strategies to help players thrive in this game-changing expansion of Anachrony.  

Game Highlights  

Players: 1 – 4 players  

Age: 15+ years  

Time: 90 – 150 mins  

Designers: Richard Amann, Viktor Peter, Dávid Turczi  

Artists: Villő Farkas  

Mechanisms: Set Collection, Variable Player Powers, Worker Placement  

Year Published: 2020  

Difficulty: 4.5/5  

Game Type: Competitive  

Rating: 8.9/10  

Bold New Dimensions in Time-Bending Strategy  

Anachrony: Fractures of Time is not just an expansion—it’s a tactical revolution. With a stellar rating of 8.9/10, this expansion reinvents the strategic landscape of Anachrony by adding new layers of gameplay through innovative mechanics, a powerful new faction, and thematic depth. Its high difficulty level (4.5/5) appeals to seasoned gamers looking for a deeply rewarding challenge. If you love worker placement with a twist of sci-fi time manipulation, this is the ultimate experience.  

Understanding the Core Expansion: Anachrony – Fractures of Time  

In this expansion, players discover the secluded Amethynia Valley—a region not only spared but transformed by the impact of the Neutronium asteroid. This strange terrain gives birth to Flux, a highly potent substance harvested by the mysterious Operators known as the Harvesters. The Flux technology they offer allows players to harness the power of “Blinking,” or relocating placed Exosuits, and retrieving Workers or Free Action markers. These new mechanics pave the way for dynamic and optimized gameplay strategies.  

However, these advantages come at a cost. Overusing Flux without a properly upgraded Fracture device introduces Temporal Glitches. These disruptions can disable buildings, shut down Exosuit bays, and increase vulnerability to Anomalies, adding an unpredictable twist to an already strategic game.  

Key Strategies to Succeed in Anachrony: Fractures of Time  

1. Invest Early in the Fracture Device  

The Fracture device is the centerpiece of this expansion. Upgrading it early provides a significant advantage, allowing players to Blink Exosuits and mitigate the negative effects of overusing Flux. Without a well-upgraded device, the benefits of the Flux Cores are often outweighed by the disruption of Temporal Glitches.  

Strategy Tip: Prioritize actions and resources that contribute to Fracture device development during the early Eras. This positions you to use Flux efficiently without facing penalties.  

2. Balance Flux Usage with Glitch Management  

Flux Cores are powerful tools, but each use brings risk. The Operators can remove Temporal Glitches, but relying on them too heavily wastes time and actions.  

Strategy Tip: Use Blink strategically rather than excessively. Consider each action’s long-term implications. If a Blink offers only minor benefits, it may be better to wait rather than risk generating a Glitch.  

3. Integrate the Path of Unity Thoughtfully  

The Path of Unity introduces a new ideology to the world of Anachrony. As a fifth faction, it offers an alternative narrative and strategic options. They can adapt well to the expansion due to their balanced tech access and strong synergy with Flux mechanics.  

Strategy Tip: When playing as the Path of Unity, focus on versatile Worker usage and synergize them with your upgraded Fracture device. Their balanced nature makes them ideal for experimentation and efficiency.  

4. Utilize Harvesters Wisely  

Harvesters are a powerful new worker type that is immune to Flux side effects. Their presence ensures continuity in strategy even during periods of heavy Flux use.  

Strategy Tip: Acquire and assign Harvesters to critical tasks that are frequently affected by Glitches. This ensures uninterrupted access to high-impact actions and maintains momentum.  

5. Enhance Action Efficiency with Blink  

Blinking allows a previously placed Exosuit to perform a second action without needing to deploy a new suit. This mechanism is a game-changer, particularly in high-stakes moments.  

Strategy Tip: Plan placements that allow for a high-value Blink follow-up. Combine this with Worker retrieval for exponential efficiency, especially during Eras with limited resources.  

6. Strategically Delay Exosuit Placement  

In Anachrony: Fractures of Time, timing is key. Instead of committing Exosuits early, consider delaying placement until you can fully capitalize on Blink opportunities.  

Strategy Tip: Observe the board state and other players’ intentions before committing. Use your first actions to prepare for double-use scenarios with Blink, turning one Exosuit into two high-value plays.  

7. Embrace the Risk-Reward Nature of Glitches  

While Glitches are generally negative, experienced players may occasionally use them tactically. For example, allowing a temporary building shutdown may be acceptable if it opens a critical Blink opportunity.  

Strategy Tip: View Glitches as part of the resource economy. Use them when the benefit clearly outweighs the consequence, but avoid letting them snowball into larger issues.  

8. Combine Expansion Modules for Advanced Strategy  

Fractures of Time integrates well with other Anachrony modules, such as Guardians of the Council or Doomsday. Advanced players can create layered strategies by combining elements from each.  

Strategy Tip: Use Flux-powered Blink actions to synergize with Doomsday countdown strategies or enhance Guardian interactions. These cross-module tactics can surprise opponents and unlock hidden advantages. 

9. Prioritize Adaptive Planning  

The unpredictability of Temporal Glitches and other players’ strategies means you must remain flexible.  

Strategy Tip: Create contingency plans and diversify your Worker types. Adapt your approach based on the Valley’s resources, the availability of Flux Cores, and your opponents’ actions.  

10. Maximize Victory Points Through Synergistic Paths  

Ultimately, all strategies in Anachrony: Fractures of Time should lead toward endgame scoring. Maximize points by aligning your Path’s abilities, Flux mechanics, and Worker placements with the expansion’s new scoring opportunities.  

Strategy Tip: Keep an eye on endgame bonuses tied to Flux usage and technology upgrades. These often reward careful planning and can shift the final standings in your favor.  

Final Thoughts  

Anachrony: Fractures of Time elevates the base game’s complexity, adding thrilling possibilities through Flux technology, the enigmatic Amethynia Valley, and the emergence of the Path of Unity. To succeed, players must master not only the core mechanics of Anachrony but also learn how to manipulate time and manage risk more effectively than ever before. Whether you’re a returning fan or new to Anachrony, this expansion offers limitless hours of immersive, hard gameplay. The advent of Blink, Temporal Glitches, and the Harvesters reshapes familiar strategies and requires fresh thinking.  

To experience Anachrony: Fractures of Time at its fullest, it’s essential to own a quality edition of the game. BoardGamesNMore is the most popular online platform for buying board games at affordable rates. With a wide selection, excellent customer service, and competitive pricing, they are your go-to destination for board gaming greatness.  

Start building your own fractured timeline, and may your Path lead to Unity and victory.