Nautilus (2012) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Nautilus is a card game released in 2012, designed by Yuio and published by Libellud. The game is based on the classic science fiction novel “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” by Jules Verne. It is a strategic game that requires players to manage their hand effectively in order to win.

Game Components of Nautilus

1 board

41 station modules

60 researchers

12 submarines

80 module markers

4 player boards

60 discovery tiles

4 special orders

30 victory point markers

1 first player disk

1 Ruins of Atlantis Board

80 Nemos (currency).

How To Setup Nautilus

Setup involves laying out the undersea map with an octagonal base station module in the center. Players each receive a player board, researchers, submarines, module markers, a special order card, and Nemos. The discovery tiles are placed face down in different ocean depth levels. Each player starts with a set amount of Nemos and their special order card, which lists two types of discoveries that are more valuable to them.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Develop the Underwater City: Players build research modules on the ocean floor.

Deploy Researchers: Researchers are moved to various locations.

Operate Submarines: Submarines are used to explore and collect discovery tiles.

Change First Player: The first player marker shifts clockwise each round.

Objective: The goal is to build a strong presence in the underwater city and make significant discoveries. The final score is determined by multiplying the research score with the exploration score.

Player Experience

Playing Nautilus can be a complex and somewhat monotonous experience. The game requires players to balance research and exploration, but the turns can feel repetitive. The instructions are complicated, which can confuse even seasoned gamers. Despite its functional game system, the game lacks excitement and variety in player actions, leading to a sense of doing the same things over and over.

Pros

Balanced Gameplay: Encourages players to balance research and exploration.

Strategic Depth: Players must prioritize actions and manage resources carefully.

Beautiful Components: The game is praised for its visually appealing components.

Cons

Complex Instructions: The rules are complicated and hard to follow.

Repetitive Turns: Players may feel they are repeating the same actions without significant progress.

Lack of Fun: The game has been criticized for not being enjoyable despite its functional mechanics.

Personal Thoughts on Nautilus

Nautilus is for players who enjoy complex, strategic games and are willing to invest time in understanding the intricate rules. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking a light-hearted or fast-paced gaming experience. If you appreciate games that require careful planning and resource management, Nautilus might be worth a try, but it is not recommended for casual gamers or those looking for immediate fun.

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