Forbidden Island
- Designer Matt Leacock
- Publisher Gamewright , ADC Blackfire Entertainment , Arclight Games , AURUM, Inc. , Brädspel.se
- Illustration C. B. Canga
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Forbidden Island, two to four players work together as adventurers exploring a sinking island to recover hidden treasures. The board consists of colorful, screen-printed tiles that gradually flood and disappear. Players choose characters with unique abilities and carefully spend action points to move, shore up sinking tiles, and collect treasures. Rising water levels increase pressure, forcing tough decisions and cooperation to succeed.
Who Is This Game For?
Forbidden Island is a family-level cooperative game suitable for ages 10 and up. With about 30 minutes per session, it's ideal for quick play. No prior experience with cooperative games is required, making it accessible to casual and new players who enjoy teamwork and strategy.
How It Works
Players take turns moving their pawns on a grid of island tiles, some of which flood and sink over time (Map Reduction). Each player has a limited number of action points to move, shore up tiles, or collect treasures (Action Points, Hand Management). Players must coordinate to prevent the island from disappearing while gathering all treasures before escaping. Event cards introduce random challenges and increase tension.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Matt Leacock, Forbidden Island won the 2010 Mensa Select award and the Golden Geek Best Children's Board Game. It features high-quality components housed in a compact metal tin and vibrant island tiles. As a cooperative game, it balances accessibility and challenge, serving as the predecessor to Forbidden Desert.
Awards
2010
2010
- 2010 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Encourages cooperative teamwork
- Short playtime of about 30 minutes
- High-quality components and vibrant tiles
- Awarded Mensa Select and Golden Geek
Contra
- Requires 2 to 4 players, no solo mode
- Needs communication and coordination, which can be challenging
- Limited complexity for experienced gamers
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set on a fictional mysterious island that gradually sinks beneath the waves. Players embark on an adventure to retrieve hidden treasures before the island disappears.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on effective communication and making good use of your character's special abilities.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Forbidden Island requires at least two players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick cooperative experience.
What prior experience do I need?
Designed as a family game, no special prior experience is necessary.
How does this compare to similar games?
Forbidden Island is the predecessor to Forbidden Desert and stands out with its simple yet tense cooperative gameplay.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is suitable for ages 10 and up and designed for family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of cooperative play, action points, and the shrinking island via map reduction makes the game unique.
Fazit
Forbidden Island is a highly recommended cooperative family game with short sessions and easy-to-learn rules. It suits players who appreciate teamwork and tactical decision-making.
