Darwin's Journey
- Designer Simone Luciani , Nestore Mangone
- Publisher ThunderGryph Games , Blackrock Games , CMON Global Limited , CrowD Games , Gém Klub Kft.
- Illustration Kristiaan der Nederlanden , Paolo Voto
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
You play explorers on the Galápagos, gathering repertoires and expanding scientific knowledge through observation and collection. The game combines Worker-Placement with a progressive worker-progression system so workers must develop disciplines to perform actions like exploration, correspondence, gathering and dispatching finds. The design emphasizes nature observation and biodiversity over five rounds, with short- and long-term objectives offering multiple scoring paths.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at experienced euro/enthusiast players: the 120-minute playtime and layered mechanics suit Kennerspiel/advanced hobbyists. It includes a solo mode, making it playable alone. New players should expect a learning curve and plan for longer first sessions.
How It Works
Core mechanics include Worker-Placement, Pick-up-and-Deliver, Set Collection and Contracts; players place workers, improve their abilities and fulfill objectives. Ownership and Point-to-Point Movement support thematic expeditions between islands and delivery targets. Actions generate repertoires that can be sent to museums for points, while short- and long-term goals provide varied scoring opportunities. The progressive worker system gates access to advanced actions by required disciplines.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Simone Luciani and Nestore Mangone, the game ties closely to Charles Darwin's Galápagos voyage (Historical Figure: Charles Darwin). Darwin's Journey received multiple 2023 nominations, including International Gamers Award (Multi-player) and Golden Geek categories. Its mix of worker progression and exploration theme sets it apart from standard placement games.
Awards
2023
2023
2023
- 2023 Board Game Quest Awards Best Strategy/Euro Game — Nominated
- 2023 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Strong thematic link to Charles Darwin's voyages
- Innovative worker-progression within Worker-Placement
- Includes solo mode (1 player)
- Multiple award nominations in 2023
Contra
- Long playtime (~120 minutes)
- Suited more for experienced players; learning curve for newcomers
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set on the Galápagos Islands, the game follows Darwin-inspired research and species observation; theme centers on natural science exploration and specimen collecting as described in the game text.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding Worker-Placement and Set Collection interactions; use short-term objectives to secure steady points in initial plays.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes. players.min is 1, so a solo/solitaire mode is included.
How long does a game really take?
Listed duration is about 120 minutes; first games including setup and rule explanations can take longer.
What prior experience do I need?
Mechanics like Worker-Placement and Contracts and the game's length make it better suited to experienced players.
How does this compare to similar games?
Its progressive worker-progression combined with exploration and Pick-up-and-Deliver distinguishes it from straightforward placement titles.
Is this suitable for families?
With min_age 14 and 120-minute playtime, it's aimed at older teens and adults rather than young family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
The progressive Worker-Placement/worker-progression system paired with Pick-up-and-Deliver and Set Collection is the standout mechanic.
Fazit
A richly themed euro for players who enjoy 120-minute, strategic exploration games; solo mode and several 2023 nominations add appeal. Not recommended for those seeking light family games.
