Excavation Earth (2021) Board Game

Excavation Earth is a board game released in 2021 by Mighty Boards. Designed by Gordon Calleja, Dávid Turczi, and Wai Yee, the game takes place in a science fiction setting where players act as alien races competing to excavate artifacts from Earth. The game combines economic elements with hand management and area control mechanics, providing a unique and immersive gaming experience.

Game Components of Excavation Earth

Game board

Player boards

Artifact cards

Currency tokens

Influence markers

Excavation markers

Reference cards

How To Setup Excavation Earth

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Give each player a player board and set of components.

Shuffle the artifact cards and place them on the designated area of the board.

Distribute currency tokens and influence markers to players.

Determine starting player and begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Players take turns exploring Earth, excavating artifacts, and selling them in the market to earn currency and influence. The objective is to accumulate the most wealth and influence by the end of the game. Players must strategize their actions to outmaneuver opponents and secure valuable artifacts.

Player Experience

Pros:

Engaging gameplay with a unique theme

Strategic depth with multiple paths to victory

High replayability due to variable player powers and market dynamics

Cons:

Steep learning curve for new players

Some luck involved in card draws

Long setup time for a game of medium length

Personal Thoughts on Excavation Earth

Excavation Earth offers a refreshing take on the economic board game genre with its science fiction theme and innovative mechanics. The game’s build quality is top-notch, with beautifully illustrated components that enhance the overall gaming experience. While the pricing may be on the higher side, the game’s replay value and strategic depth make it worth the investment for serious board gamers. However, casual players may find the learning curve daunting and should approach with caution. Overall, Excavation Earth is a standout title in its category and a worthy addition to any board game collection.

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