Miller Zoo (2022) Board Game

Miller Zoo is a cooperative board game designed by Jocelyne Bouchard and Marjorie Gros, with artwork by Randolph and another artist. The game was released in 2022 and is suitable for 1 to 6 players, with a recommended age of 8 and up. The game falls under the category of animals and features mechanisms such as action points, hand management, and point to point movement.

Game Components of Miller Zoo

Game Board: Representing Miller Zoo, a real zoo in Quebec.

Resource Cards: Used for movement and meeting animal needs.

Needs Cards: Indicate the requirements of the animals.

Animal Cards: Featuring actual inhabitants of Miller Zoo.

Habitat and Reception Spaces: For animal care and new animal intake.

Character Cards: Initially blank, gaining abilities as the game progresses.

Envelopes: Containing new animals, rules, and challenges.

Stickers: To track completed challenges and game progress.

Tokens: For marking unmet animal needs and crises.

How To Setup Miller Zoo

Setting up *Miller Zoo* involves placing the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player starts with four resource cards, which also serve as movement fare to one of the zoo’s seven spaces. The needs cards and animal cards are shuffled and placed within reach. The envelopes containing new challenges and rules are set aside to be opened as players complete specific objectives.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative Play: Players work together to manage the zoo.

Resource Management: Use resource cards to move around the zoo and meet animal needs.

Campaign Mode: The game evolves with new challenges and rules as players progress.

Legacy Elements: Envelopes introduce new animals, special abilities, and additional rules.

Game Objective: Receive a specified number of animals while managing the ongoing needs of the existing ones.

Phases: Each round is divided into Dawn (resource card draw), Morning (needs card draw), Afternoon (resource usage), and Night (crisis management).

Player Experience

Playing *Miller Zoo* is an engaging and cooperative experience, particularly suited for families. The game introduces new trials and corresponding rewards gradually, making it easy for new players to understand and enjoy. The gameplay involves strategic problem-solving, as players must juggle the needs of existing animals while preparing to welcome new ones. The game’s thematic setting and beautiful watercolor illustrations add to the overall enjoyment, making it a delightful experience for both children and adults.

Pros

Cooperative Nature: Encourages teamwork and family collaboration.

Gradual Difficulty: Introduces new challenges as players progress.

Beautiful Artwork: Visually appealing with watercolor illustrations.

Versatile Play: Accommodates solo and group play.

Educational: Players learn about real animals and their needs.

Cons

Simple Mechanics: May be too straightforward for experienced gamers.

Legacy Elements Limited: The game’s evolution is predetermined, lacking player choice.

Basic Starter Difficulty: The initial game may be too easy for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Miller Zoo

*Miller Zoo* is an excellent choice for families and those new to cooperative board games. It strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and strategic depth, making it engaging for both younger and older players. While it may not offer groundbreaking mechanics for seasoned gamers, it excels in providing a heartwarming and educational experience that mirrors the real-world mission of animal rescue and care. It’s a solid addition to any family game collection, especially for those who love animals and cooperative play.

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