Aquarium (2011) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Aquarium is a card game designed by Atha Kanaani and Steven Kees and released in in 2011. It is a set collection game where players take on the role of aquarium owners collecting different species of fish to create the most impressive aquarium.

Game Components of Aquarium

Game board

Fish cards

Player boards

Money tokens

Fish tanks

Scoring markers

How To Setup Aquarium

To set up Aquarium, each player chooses a player board and places it in front of them. The game board, representing the pet store, is placed in the middle of the playing area. Fish cards are shuffled and arranged face up on the pet store spaces. Players receive a set amount of money tokens to start the game. Each player also gets a fish tank board to manage their collected fish.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Economic Mechanics: Players bid on and buy fish using money tokens.

Set Collection: Players aim to collect sets of fish to score points.

Auction/Bidding: Players participate in auctions to purchase fish.

Game Objective: The objective is to score the most points by collecting valuable sets of fish.

Player Experience

Playing Aquarium involves strategic bidding and set collection. Players need to balance their spending to acquire the right fish while avoiding overspending. The game requires a mix of short-term tactical decisions and long-term strategic planning to maximize points.

Pros

Engaging Bidding Mechanic: The auction system adds a dynamic and interactive element to the game.

Strategic Depth: Requires players to think ahead and manage resources effectively.

Colorful Theme: The aquarium theme is visually appealing and fun.

Cons

Unbalanced Gameplay: Some players have noted that the game can be harsh and unbalanced, leading to significant disparities in scoring.

Steep Learning Curve: The game mechanics, especially the bidding system, can be complex for new players.

Personal Thoughts on Aquarium

Aquarium is for players who enjoy economic and set-collection games with a strategic twist. It is best suited for those who like bidding and auction mechanics, as well as managing resources carefully. While it can be quite challenging and may not be balanced for all players, it offers a unique and engaging gaming experience for those who appreciate strategic complexity.

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