| | | | | | |

Ecosystem: Savanna (2023) Board Game

ByMichail

Ecosystem: Savanna is a board game that falls under the educational and environmental category. It was released in 2023 by Genius Games, known for creating science-based tabletop games. The game is designed by Daniel Dávalos, Steve Schlepphorst, and Matt Simpson, with artwork by Mesa Schumacher.

Game Components of Ecosystem: Savanna

  • Cards: Representing a diversity of organisms, including animals like giraffes, gazelles, lions, cheetahs, and vultures, as well as landforms such as trees and grasslands.
  • Grid: A 4×5 grid where players arrange their cards.
  • Scoring Sheet: To track points based on card placements and interactions.
  • High-quality components: Visually stunning cards and artwork inspired by the Serengeti.

    How To Setup Ecosystem: Savanna

    To set up the game, each player receives 11 cards at the beginning of each of the two rounds. Players choose a card from their hand simultaneously and place it in their grid, ensuring it is adjacent to at least one other card. After each player has placed a card, the remaining hands are passed in a clockwise direction in the first round and counter-clockwise in the second round. This process continues until each player has placed 10 cards, with the last card being discarded.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Card Drafting: Players choose, pass, and arrange cards to build their ecosystem.
  • Grid Placement: Cards must be placed adjacent to other cards in a 4×5 grid.
  • Scoring: Each card type scores differently based on its placement and interactions with other cards. For example:
  • Giraffes** score 5 points if next to a tree.
  • Gazelles** are worth 2 points each, with a 5-point bonus for the player with the most gazelles.
  • Lions** score 4 points if next to a grassland and can flip over a gazelle or zebra to score.
  • Vultures** score 4 points for each flipped-over card in the same column.
  • Objective: The goal is to create the most efficient and harmonious ecosystem, scoring the most points by strategically placing cards.

    Player Experience

    Playing Ecosystem: Savanna is an immersive experience that combines strategy and education. Players become environmental strategists, carefully selecting and arranging cards to mimic the intricate balance of the savanna ecosystem. The game is visually captivating, with stunning artwork that brings the African grasslands to life. It is engaging for both kids and adults, making it an ideal choice for family game nights and educational settings.

    Pros

  • Educational: Teaches about species interactions, ecological balance, and resource management.
  • Visually Captivating: High-quality components and artwork.
  • Strategic: Requires thoughtful card placement and planning.
  • Family-Friendly: Suitable for kids aged 8 and up, as well as adults.
  • Multiplayer: Supports up to 6 players.

    Cons

  • Card Size: The cards are small, which can be a minor inconvenience.
  • Complexity for Younger Players: Younger children might find the scoring conditions challenging to keep track of.

    Personal Thoughts on Ecosystem: Savanna

    Ecosystem: Savanna is a delightful blend of entertainment and education, making it perfect for family game nights, classroom learning, and nature enthusiasts. It is recommended for anyone looking for a game that combines strategy with an educational experience, particularly those interested in ecology and biodiversity. While it may be simpler than other games in the Ecosystem series, it still offers a engaging and intellectually stimulating experience.

    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. 

    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *