Nautilion (2016) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Nautilion is a solo or two-player cooperative board game designed by Élise Plessis and published by Z-Man Games in in 2016. The game is set in the same universe as the Oniverse series, where players take on the role of submarine captains trying to save the Oniverse from the Evil Dogriss.

Game Components of Nautilion

Game board

Player tokens

Dice

Resource tokens

cards for various actions and events

Rulebook

How To Setup Nautilion

To set up Nautilion, start by placing the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a token and places it at the starting point on the board. Distribute the resource tokens and cards according to the rules outlined in the rulebook. Ensure all necessary components are within reach of the players.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Roll and Move: Players roll dice to determine how many spaces they can move their token.

Resource Management: Players collect and manage resources to perform actions and overcome challenges.

Action Cards: Use cards to influence gameplay, gain advantages, or mitigate disadvantages.

Objective: The goal is to navigate through an underwater world, collecting resources and completing objectives while managing the roll and move mechanism efficiently.

Player Experience

Nautilion offers a unique blend of traditional mechanics with modern twists, making it an interesting experience for fans of roll and move games. The game’s underwater theme adds a visually appealing element, and the use of action cards adds a layer of strategy. However, some players might find the base game a bit shallow, with the game truly coming alive with the introduction of expansions.

Pros

Innovative Mechanics: Shadi Torbey’s attempt to enhance the roll and move mechanism makes the game stand out.

Visually Appealing: The underwater theme is well-designed and engaging.

Strategic Depth: Action cards add a layer of strategy to the game.

Part of a Series: Being part of the Oniverse series, it integrates well with other games in the series.

Cons

Base Game Limitations: Some players find the base game lacking in depth without expansions.

Roll and Move: While innovative, the roll and move mechanism may still feel random and less engaging for some players.

Personal Thoughts on Nautilion

Nautilion is best suited for players who enjoy traditional board game mechanics with a modern twist. It is particularly appealing to those who are fans of the Oniverse series or are looking to explore innovative takes on classic gameplay. While it might not be the most complex game, it offers a fun and strategic experience, especially when expanded upon. For new players, it serves as a good introduction to more advanced board games, and for seasoned players, it provides a refreshing spin on familiar mechanics.

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