Archaeology (2007) Board Game

Archaeology is a board game designed by Phil Walker-Harding and released in in 2007. The game is set in the world of archaeology, where players take on the role of archaeologists in search of ancient artifacts. The game combines elements of set collection and open drafting, making for a strategic and engaging gameplay experience. With a runtime of 20 minutes and suitable for players aged 10 and up, Archaeology is a great choice for a quick and fun gaming session.

Game Components of Archaeology

Artifact cards

Market cards

Player boards

Excavation tokens

Bonus cards

Rulebook

How To Setup Archaeology

Shuffle the artifact cards and deal a set number to each player.

Place the market cards in a central area.

Each player receives a player board and excavation tokens.

Determine the starting player and begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Archaeology, players take turns excavating artifacts, trading with the market, and collecting sets of artifacts to earn points. The game combines elements of luck and strategy, as players must decide when to trade artifacts for cards in the market and when to hold onto them for better sets. The objective of the game is to have the most valuable collection of artifacts by the end of the game.

Player Experience

The game offers a quick and engaging gameplay experience, perfect for casual gaming sessions. The open drafting and set collection mechanics keep players on their toes, as they must constantly adapt their strategies based on the cards available in the market. The game is easy to learn and suitable for players of all ages, making it a great choice for family game nights.

Pros:

Quick and easy to learn

Strategic gameplay with a good mix of luck

Suitable for players of all ages

Cons:

Limited replay value

Some players may find the luck-based elements frustrating

Personal Thoughts on Archaeology

Archaeology is a solid board game that offers a fun and engaging experience for players looking for a quick and strategic game. The game’s components are well-designed, and the artwork adds to the overall theme of archaeology. While the game may lack some depth compared to more complex board games, it is a great choice for casual gamers or families looking for a fun and accessible game to enjoy together.

In terms of pricing and availability, Archaeology is reasonably priced and can be found in both new and used condition. For those interested in similar games, alternatives like Lost Cities or Splendor offer similar gameplay mechanics and strategic depth. Overall, Archaeology is worth your time if you enjoy quick and light board games with a strategic edge. It is suitable for players of all ages and makes for a great addition to any game collection.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.