Discover: Lands Unknown (2018) Board Game

Discover: Lands Unknown is a board game released in 2018 by Fantasy Flight Games. Designed by Corey Konieczka, the game falls under the adventure and exploration category. The unique aspect of Discover: Lands Unknown is that each copy of the game is different, with a mix of environments, characters, storylines, and components that are randomly selected, making each game experience truly one-of-a-kind.

Game Components of Discover: Lands Unknown

Unique Components: Each copy of the game is unique, containing two types of terrain, twelve different characters, five scenarios, different monsters, and varying exploration cards.

Terrain Tiles: Six possible terrain types, but each game includes only two.

Character Cards: 36 characters in total, but each game includes only twelve.

Scenario Cards: Five scenarios, with a fifth scenario being competitive.

Resource Tokens: Tokens for water, food, wood, and other resources.

Monster Tokens: Unique monster tokens tied to specific scenarios or events.

Exploration Cards: Cards that reveal landmarks and resources when tiles are flipped.

How To Setup Discover: Lands Unknown

Setting up the game involves selecting the terrain tiles, character cards, and scenario cards specific to your unique copy. Players start by placing the terrain tiles to form the map, dealing out character projects, and setting up the resource tokens. Each scenario has specific setup instructions that guide the initial game state.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Exploration: Players can scout and flip over undiscovered tiles to reveal landmarks and resources.

Resource Management: Gathering and managing resources like food, water, and materials to craft items.

Crafting: Using resources to craft new items such as torches or stone knives.

Combat: Engaging in combat with animals and monsters using dice rolls.

Survival: Managing stamina and healing from different types of damage.

Scenario Completion: Completing specific objectives outlined in the scenario cards to win the game.

Player Experience

The game offers a thrilling experience of exploration and survival, especially in the initial plays. Players feel a strong sense of discovery as they uncover new landmarks and resources. However, the game can become repetitive once the map and landmarks are familiar. The unique components of each copy add a layer of excitement, but the gameplay mechanics can feel luck-dependent and less strategic over time.

Pros

Unique Copies: Each game is unique, providing a different experience with every copy.

Exploration: The game captures the excitement of exploring unknown territories.

Light and Quick: It is a lighter and faster game compared to other survival games like Robinson Crusoe.

Variety in Scenarios: Scenarios can be wildly different, even with the same terrain types.

Cons

Repetitive Gameplay: Once the map and landmarks are known, the game can become repetitive.

Luck-Dependent: Many outcomes are determined by dice rolls, making the game feel less strategic.

Limited Replayability: The game may not offer high replayability once all scenarios are completed.

Personal Thoughts on Discover: Lands Unknown

Discover: Lands Unknown is ideal for players who enjoy light, quick exploration games with a unique twist. It is particularly suited for those who are new to cooperative and survival games, as it offers a more accessible experience compared to more complex games like Robinson Crusoe. However, for players seeking deep strategy and high replayability, this game might fall short. The unique components and initial discovery phase make it a fun and exciting experience, but it may not sustain long-term interest for all players.

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.