Codex Naturalis
- Designer Thomas Dupont
- Publisher Bombyx , Cranio Creations , Dexker Games , HUCH! , Lifestyle Boardgames Ltd
- Illustration Maxime Morin
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Codex Naturalis, you continue the work of monk Tybor Kwelein by assembling pages of a manuscript listing species in primary forests. You layer resource and gold cards strategically, sometimes sacrificing species to develop your manuscript. The game blends layering, open drafting, and hand management in quick 30-minute rounds.
Who Is This Game For?
Codex Naturalis is a family game with light complexity, suitable for players from age 7. It appeals to newcomers who enjoy tactical card games. The short playtime fits casual game nights, and a solo mode makes it accessible for solo players.
How It Works
Each turn, you place a card from your hand overlapping corners of cards already in play (layering). You manage your hand to play resource and gold cards strategically. Gold cards score points but require certain visible resources. After playing, you draw a new card through open drafting. When a player reaches 20 points, final scoring with public and secret objectives determines the winner.
What Makes It Special
Designer Thomas Dupont combines hand management, pattern building, and open drafting in a compact package. Codex Naturalis was nominated for the 2021 5 Seasons Best International Card Game and won the Tric Trac de Bronze. Its mix of card layering and resource management stands out among environmental card games.
Awards
2021
- 2022 GEEKS d'OURO Family/Party Board Game of the Year — Nominated
- 2022 JUGuinho Families Game of the Year — Finalist
- 2021 5 Seasons Best International Card Game — Nominated
Pro
- Includes solo mode for single players
- Combines hand management, layering, and pattern building
- Short playtime around 30 minutes
- Thematically coherent nature and book motif
Contra
- Light complexity might be too simple for experts
- Short and fast, not suited for extended sessions
- Designed for ages 7+, limiting depth
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game centers on a monk compiling a manuscript about living species in primary forests. It merges themes of nature and books in a card game setting.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Manage your hand carefully and pay attention to resources to successfully play gold cards.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Codex Naturalis includes a solo mode for single players.
How long does a game really take?
A game takes about 30 minutes, making it ideal for quick sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is designed as a family game suitable for beginners without much prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Codex Naturalis uniquely combines hand management with layering and open drafting in a nature-themed card game.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is suitable for ages 7 and up with light complexity appealing to families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of layering and hand management is characteristic for Codex Naturalis.
Fazit
Codex Naturalis is recommended for families and casual gamers seeking a short, tactical card game with a nature theme. The solo mode and variable objectives increase replayability. Experts looking for high complexity may find it too light.
