| | | | | |

Expedition Luxor (2018) Board Game

ByMichail

Expedition Luxor is a board game released in 2018 and designed by Markus Erdt and Patricia Limberger. The game is set in Ancient Egypt and players take on the roles of archaeologists exploring the famous city of Luxor. The game incorporates elements of abstract strategy, area majority/influence, grid movement, and tile placement mechanics.

Game Components of Expedition Luxor

  • Tiles:** Numbered from 1 to 5, used to build the game grid.
  • Adventure Tokens:** 30 tokens per player, used for placing on the grid.
  • Camp Tokens:** Used to mark player presence on the grid.
  • Pyramid and Temple Tokens:** Represent valuable treasures.
  • Optional Expansion Tokens:** Include boats, snakes, and other tokens for additional maneuvers.

    How To Setup Expedition Luxor

    To set up the game, players start by shuffling and drawing their number 1 tiles. Each player keeps two tiles and contributes the other two to a communal pile. These tiles are then used to create the starting grid, which varies in size based on the number of players (e.g., a 10×10 grid for four players). Each player also receives 30 adventure tokens.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Tile Placement:** Players take turns placing one of their two tiles adjacent to existing tiles on the grid and draw a replacement tile.
  • Camp Placement:** Players must place at least one camp token on the grid, which can be strategically important.
  • Adventure Token Placement:** Players place their adventure tokens on the grid to control camps, pyramids, and temples.
  • Maximum Adventurers:** Each tile can have a maximum of four adventurers.
  • Scoring:** Points are awarded at the end of the game based on control of pyramids (3 points), temples (2 points), and camps (1 point).

    Player Experience

    Expedition Luxor offers a dynamic and strategic experience, particularly in multiplayer games where the board becomes more chaotic. Players need to balance quick expansion with careful planning to block opponents and secure valuable locations. The game is reminiscent of Othello, with a focus on controlling key areas and outmaneuvering opponents.

    Pros

  • Strategic Depth:** Requires careful planning and strategic thinking.
  • Dynamic Gameplay:** Each game can be different based on player actions.
  • Optional Expansion:** Adds more complexity and maneuverability with special tokens.

    Cons

  • Marketing Confusion:** The game’s branding may confuse players who expect a similar experience to the original Luxor game.
  • Abstract Nature:** May not appeal to players looking for a more thematic experience.
  • Chaotic with More Players:** The game can become overly complex and chaotic with four players.

    Personal Thoughts on Expedition Luxor

    Expedition Luxor is for players who enjoy abstract strategy and tile-laying games. It is not a direct continuation of the original Luxor game but rather a distinct game that happens to share the same universe. If you’re looking for a game that challenges your strategic thinking and offers a unique experience, Expedition Luxor might be an excellent addition to your collection. However, if you’re expecting a thematic adventure similar to the original Luxor, you might find this game confusing and different from what you anticipated.

    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 *