Archaeology: The New Expedition (2016) Board Game

Archaeology: The New Expedition is a card game designed by Phil Walker-Harding and published by Asmodee in in 2016. It is a revamped version of the original Archaeology game, with updated rules and components. The game is set in the early 20th century and players take on the role of archaeologists competing to collect valuable artifacts from ancient Egyptian sites.

Game Components of Archaeology: The New Expedition

Treasure cards: Nine types, including *Potsherds*, *Parchment Scraps*, and *Pharaoh’s Mask*, each with varying values and rarity.

Map fragments: Used to interact with monument tiles and uncover hidden treasures.

Monument tiles: Six options, such as the *Great Pyramid*, *Sphinx*, *Tomb*, and *Temple*, each affecting game mechanics.

Thief cards: Allow players to steal cards from other players.

Sandstorm cards: Cause players to discard half their cards unless they use a *tent card*.

Tent cards: Protect players from sandstorms.

Marketplace cards: Five cards placed face-up at the start, allowing players to trade cards.

How To Setup Archaeology: The New Expedition

Each player starts with four treasure cards and one tent card. Five additional cards are placed face-up to form the marketplace. The remaining cards are shuffled into a draw deck. Players choose a monument tile, which influences the game’s progression.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Drawing cards: Players draw a card from the deck each turn.

Trading cards: Players can exchange cards from their hand with those in the marketplace.

Selling sets: Players collect sets of treasure cards to sell to the museum for points.

Map fragments: Used to raid treasure chambers associated with monument tiles.

Thieves and sandstorms: Interrupt gameplay by allowing card theft or forcing card discard.

Objective: Accumulate the highest total value of treasures sold to the museum.

Player Experience

**Archaeology: The New Expedition** is a game of calculated risk and luck. Players are constantly tempted to hold on to their treasures in hopes of completing higher-value sets, while navigating the risks of thieves and sandstorms. The game’s simplicity belies its depth, as players must balance short-term gains with long-term strategies. The ancient Egyptian theme and charming illustrations add to the game’s appeal, making it a unique blend of excitement and tactical decision-making.

Pros

Engaging theme: Immersive ancient Egyptian setting and charm.

Simple yet strategic: Easy to learn but offers depth in strategy.

High replayability: Randomness and different monument tiles ensure varied gameplay.

Social interaction: Players can trade and steal cards, enhancing social dynamics.

Cons

Randomness: Heavily influenced by luck of the draw, which may not appeal to all players.

Risk of loss: Sandstorms and thieves can significantly impact players’ progress.

Slow start: Can feel slow with fewer players or without the right monument tile.

Personal Thoughts on Archaeology: The New Expedition

This game is ideal for those who enjoy light to medium-weight card games with a strong thematic element. It’s particularly suited for players who appreciate the balance between luck and strategy. While it can be enjoyed with two players, the game shines with four or five, where the social and competitive aspects are more pronounced. For fans of set collection and trading games, **Archaeology: The New Expedition** offers a delightful and suspenseful experience that keeps you digging for more.

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