Unearth (2017) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Unearth, released in 2017, is a strategic card game designed by Jason Harner and Matthew Ransom. The game is published by Brotherwise Games and has received positive reviews for its unique gameplay mechanics and beautiful artwork by David Pietrandrea and Jesse Riggle.

Game Components of Unearth

A set of dice for each player, including a four-sided die (D4), three six-sided dice (D6), and an eight-sided die (D8)

Ruin cards

Stones

Wonders (Greater and Lesser)

Delver cards

End of Age card

Unearth bag for storing stones

How To Setup Unearth

To set up Unearth, each player receives a set of dice in one color. All stones are placed into the black Unearth bag. For a 2-player game, remove 10 Ruin cards and place 4 Ruin cards face-up in the center; for 3-4 players, remove 5 Ruin cards and place 5 Ruin cards face-up. Each Ruin card has a number in the bottom-right indicating how many stones to take from the bag and place on it. Each player also receives one face-down Ruin card. Set out the Wonders, with additional Wonders based on the number of players (X = number of players + 2). Add an End of Age card to the bottom of the deck, and give each player two Delver cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Gameplay Mechanics

Delver Phase: Players can use Delver cards to modify the game, such as boosting or lowering dice values, getting rerolls, or triggering extra effects.

Excavation Phase: Players roll dice to claim Ruin cards or gain stones. Rolling a 1, 2, or 3 allows a player to take a stone from the Ruin card or the bag.

Stone Collection: Collect stones to build Wonders, which score points.

Ruin Claiming: Claim Ruin cards by rolling dice; the game ends when all Ruins are claimed.

Game Objective

The objective is to collect and claim Ruin cards and build Wonders to score the most points. Points are calculated based on sets of Ruin cards of the same color and from completing Wonders.

Player Experience

Unearth offers a blend of light strategy and dice rolling, making it an excellent gateway game. Players must balance the need to claim high-value Ruin cards with the strategic collection of stones to build powerful Wonders. The game rewards effort and strategy, making low rolls valuable for collecting stones. Delver cards add an extra layer of strategy, allowing players to modify their dice rolls and game state. The minimalist art style and compelling theme of rebuilding a lost civilization enhance the player experience.

Pros

Strategic Depth: Combines simple mechanics with strategic elements.

Variety of Dice: Uses multiple types of dice (D4, D6, D8), adding variety to gameplay.

Art and Theme: Engaging minimalist art style and a catchy theme.

Gateway Game: Easy to learn but offers enough depth for casual gamers.

Balanced Luck and Strategy: Rewards both luck and strategic play.

Cons

Luck Factor: Dice rolling introduces an element of luck that may not appeal to all players.

Limited Replayability: Some players may find the game too straightforward or repetitive.

Dependence on Dice Rolls: Success can be heavily influenced by dice rolls, which may frustrate some players.

Personal Thoughts on Unearth

Unearth is a great game for those new to the world of board games or looking for a light, yet engaging, experience. It’s perfect for casual meetups or as a filler game due to its quick playtime and easy setup. While it may not capture the attention of seasoned gamers seeking complex strategies, it offers a fun and strategic experience that is hard to overlook. If you’re looking for a game that balances luck and strategy with a compelling theme, Unearth is a solid choice.

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