In the Footsteps of Darwin
- Designer Grégory Grard , Matthieu Verdier
- Publisher Sorry We Are French , Broadway Toys LTD , Dino Toys s. r. o. , Feelindigo , Fractal Juegos
- Illustration Maud Briand , David Sitbon
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players take turns selecting animal or character tiles to place in their notebook, earning bonuses and moving the Beagle on a rondel board. The game combines pattern building, open drafting, and end game bonuses to simulate research and discovery aboard Darwin’s ship.
Who Is This Game For?
This family game for 2 to 5 players is suitable for ages 8 and up. With a 30-minute playtime, it is designed for casual gamers and families looking for an educational but accessible experience.
How It Works
On your turn, you pick one of three visible tiles (animals or characters) to place on your notebook (Open Drafting, Pattern Building). Then you move the Beagle forward on the rondel track according to the distance between the ship and the chosen tile (Rondel, Grid Coverage). The game ends when the journey completes and players score end-game bonuses based on tile placement (End Game Bonuses, Layering).
What Makes It Special
Designed by Grégory Grard and Matthieu Verdier, In the Footsteps of Darwin won the 2024 Geek Media Awards Family Game of the Year and the Mensa Select award. It stands out by combining historical theme with mechanics like rondel and pattern building.
Awards
2024
2024
2024
- 2024 Board Game Quest Awards Best Casual Game — Nominated
- 2024 Geek Media Awards Family Game of the Year — Winner
Pro
- Short playtime around 30 minutes
- Unique mix of rondel, open drafting, and pattern building
- Winner of Geek Media Awards Family Game of the Year 2024
- Educational family game focused on biology and evolution
Contra
- Supports only 2 to 5 players
- No solo mode included
- Limited depth for expert gamers due to short duration
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set aboard the Beagle during Charles Darwin’s voyage, players explore animals and develop evolutionary theories. The theme centers on biology and historical scientific discovery.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on recognizing patterns and efficiently using bonuses rather than complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, the game supports 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 30 minutes, suitable for quick sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Designed as a family game, it requires no special prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely combines rondel mechanics with pattern building in a historical setting centered on Charles Darwin.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is suitable for ages 8 and up with an easy learning curve.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its blend of rondel, open drafting, and pattern building mechanics offers varied tactical choices.
Fazit
A concise family game with educational value and elegant mechanics, recommended especially for fans of nature and history. Its short playtime and easy learning curve make it accessible to casual players.
