We were light years from home, galaxies away, when we first discovered this ancient celestial body — a planet full of intriguing, intelligent lifeforms, not too unlike our own. Some built kingdoms under the surface of the green seas, while others controlled the desert-filled plains and cliffs. Among them we found scientists, farmers, inventors, traders and fighters. While our presence has been unsettling for some, we have had few incidents with the locals. Although, we Circadians, Earth's famed explorers, must do what we can to keep peace. We will respect this world and its hosts. The heads of Moontide passed us orders from above. We are to start negotiations with the three clans, in hopes of earning their favor, along with our own security while on the planet. We must also gather organic samples for the depository on Moontide. This is new ground for us, we must be brave and resourceful. The future of the Circadians rests on it.

The aim of Circadians: First Light is to guide a team of researchers on the planet of Ryh. Players will manage their crew (dice) to visit various parts of the planet for trade, farming, construction and research. Players earn points for negotiating with the locals, harvesting resources for the depository, upgrading their research base, exploring the planet, and collecting gems. The game continues over eight rounds. At the end of the final round, the player with the most pointsis the winner.