Oceans
- Designer Nick Bentley , Dominic Crapuchettes , Ben Goldman , Brian O'Neill
- Publisher North Star Games, LLC , Ediciones MasQueOca , Funforge , Gameland 游戏大陆 , Grok Games
- Illustration Guillaume Ducos , Catherine Hamilton
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Oceans, players manage species in a dynamic underwater ecosystem using unique trait cards. The game features a shifting environment where players adapt their species to survive predators and changing conditions. The first half focuses on stable surface traits, while the second half introduces powerful cards from the depths that disrupt the ecosystem. This creates a strategic engine-building experience with interaction and thematic depth.
Who Is This Game For?
Oceans is suited for experienced families and strategy gamers who appreciate card-driven engine builders. With a playtime of about 90 minutes and medium complexity, it requires some familiarity with strategic card mechanics. Beginners can enjoy it with some learning effort.
How It Works
Players use hand management, multi-use cards, and open drafting to evolve their species. Cards provide traits with various effects and synergies. Victory points are partially hidden and act as a resource. The game’s phases shift from stable surface traits to disruptive deep traits, creating evolving strategic challenges in each round.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Nick Bentley, Dominic Crapuchettes, and Ben Goldman, Oceans was nominated for multiple 2020 awards including Board Game Quest Awards and Golden Geek. As a standalone title in the Evolution series, it offers over 100 unique trait cards that enrich its interactive ecosystem theme.
Awards
2020
- 2020 Board Game Quest Awards Best Family Game — Nominated
- 2020 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
- 2020 SXSW Tabletop Game of the Year — Nominated
Pro
- Deep thematic ecosystem and evolution concept
- High variety with over 100 unique trait cards
- Interactive engine-building with hand management
- Multiple 2020 award nominations
Contra
- Player count limited to 2-4
- Complex rules require learning time
- Approximately 90 minutes may be long for casual players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game explores an underwater world from the ocean surface to mysterious depths, featuring creatures from phytoplankton to apex predators and whales. It blends known marine biology with imaginative oceanic ecosystems.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand card synergies and watch how the ecosystem evolves during play.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Oceans is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, depending on player experience.
What prior experience do I need?
It is a medium-weight strategy game; some experience with card engine builders is helpful.
How does this compare to similar games?
Oceans is a standalone Evolution series game focusing on engine-building and a rich ecosystem theme.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 12 and moderate complexity, it suits experienced families.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its blend of hand management, multi-use cards, and hidden victory points creates deep strategic gameplay.
Fazit
Oceans is recommended for players who enjoy complex, thematic card games with strategic depth and interaction. Its length and mechanics suit those comfortable with medium-weight engine builders and ecological themes.
