Ecosystem (2019) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Ecosystem, released in 2019, is a board game designed by Matt Simpson and published by Genius Games. The game focuses on the theme of environmental conservation and educates players about the delicate balance of ecosystems in a fun and engaging way. With beautiful artwork by Lindsay Falsone and Martyna Szpil, Ecosystem aims to bring awareness to the importance of protecting our planet.

Game Components of Ecosystem

120 Animal Cards

75 Land Cards

10 Den Cards

1 Starting Tile

1 Scoring Track

1 Rulebook

How To Setup Ecosystem

Place the Starting Tile in the center of the play area.

Shuffle the Land Cards and place them face-down in a pile.

Shuffle the Animal Cards and deal a starting hand to each player.

Place the Den Cards within reach of all players.

Determine the first player and begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Ecosystem, players take turns drafting animal cards and placing them on their habitat to create the most diverse and balanced ecosystem. As players collect sets of cards, they earn points based on the animals’ interactions with each other and their habitats. The objective of the game is to score the most points by the end of the game.

Player Experience

Pros:

Educational: Players learn about different animals and their habitats while playing.

Strategic: Players must carefully plan their moves to create the most optimal ecosystem.

Quick Gameplay: The game can be played in a short amount of time, making it a good option for casual gaming sessions.

Cons:

Limited Player Interaction: Some players may find the lack of direct competition with other players less engaging.

Luck Factor: The luck of drawing cards may heavily influence the outcome of the game for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Ecosystem

Ecosystem is a well-designed game that successfully combines entertainment with education. The game’s components are of high quality, and the artwork adds to the overall experience. While the game may not appeal to hardcore gamers looking for intense competition, it serves as a great option for families or casual gamers interested in learning about the environment. The pricing and availability of Ecosystem are reasonable, making it a worthwhile purchase for those interested in the theme. However, for those looking for more complex gameplay or player interaction, Ecosystem may not be the best choice. Overall, Ecosystem is worth your time if you enjoy educational games and are looking for a light, strategic experience.

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