It’s a Wonderful World (2019) Board Game

It’s a Wonderful World is a card drafting and engine building game released in 2019 by designer Frédéric Guérard and publisher La Boîte de Jeu. The game is set in a futuristic world where players take on the role of leaders overseeing the construction of a new empire.

Game Components of It’s a Wonderful World

A hundred or so large cards

A hundred or so plastic cubes for resource tracking

Cardboard tokens

Boards for setup

Scenario cards for solo mode

How To Setup It’s a Wonderful World

Setting up the game is quick and easy. Players start by choosing their empire card, which sets the foundation for their civilization. The deck is shuffled, and each player drafts 7 cards. Players then decide which cards to recycle for immediate resources and which to keep for construction. The game includes various setup modes to prevent boredom, especially for frequent players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Drafting: Players draft cards each round to acquire resources or build new structures.

Engine Building: Cards are used to build projects that generate resources and points in subsequent rounds.

Resource Management: Players manage resources to build and maintain their projects.

Tableau Building: Cards are added to the player’s tableau to produce resources and gain victory points.

Competitive/Cooperative Modes: The game can be played competitively or cooperatively.

Solo Mode: Includes various scenarios with specific goals and scoring thresholds.

Objective: The player with the most victory points at the end of the game wins.

Player Experience

Players find the game engaging due to its simple yet strategic gameplay. The game is praised for its ease of learning and teaching, making it accessible to new players. The colorful translucent cubes and great artwork add to the game’s appeal. However, some players note that the game can become repetitive without the expansions, and avid board game players might find it lacking in depth.

Pros

Easy to Learn: Simple mechanics make it easy to teach and learn.

Quick Setup: Quick and easy to set up and put away.

Engaging Gameplay: Captivating gameplay with strategic depth.

Replayability: Multiple setup modes and expansions add replay value.

Solo Mode: Enjoyable solo mode with various scenarios.

Colorful Components: Great artwork and colorful cubes enhance the game experience.

Cons

Repetitive Without Expansions: Can get old quickly without additional content.

Lack of Depth: May not be complex enough for avid board game enthusiasts.

Expensive Expansions: Some expansions are considered too expensive for the additional content they provide.

Weak Theme Integration: The theme is not strongly integrated into the gameplay.

Personal Thoughts on It’s a Wonderful World

It’s a Wonderful World is an excellent choice for those who enjoy light engine-building games with a touch of strategy. It is particularly suitable for occasional weekend gamers or families looking for a game that is easy to learn but still offers depth. Avid board game players might find it a bit lacking, but the game’s quick playtime and simple setup make it a great addition to any game collection. The expansions, while sometimes pricey, can add new layers of strategy and replayability. Overall, it’s a wonderful game for those who appreciate a balance of simplicity and strategic thinking.

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