Pandemic: In the Lab
- Designer Matt Leacock , Thomas Lehmann
- Publisher Z-Man Games , asmodee , Asterion Press , Devir , Filosofia Éditions
- Illustration Chris Quilliams
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
This second expansion for Pandemic shifts gameplay into a laboratory where players use new roles to sequence diseases, collect samples, and test cures. Players move pawns on a new lab board and experience new scenarios including Virulent Strain events and Worldwide Panic Mutation. The game supports both cooperative and competitive team play for four or six players. The goal remains curing diseases, now with fresh mechanics.
Who Is This Game For?
This expansion targets fans of cooperative games and Pandemic enthusiasts who own the base game. It supports 1 to 6 players aged 8 and up, with a typical 60-minute playtime. Prior experience with Pandemic is necessary since it requires the original game to play.
How It Works
Players manage their hands and spend action points to move pawns point-to-point on the lab board, collecting samples and sequencing diseases. Cooperative gameplay relies on hand management and set collection to develop cures. The expansion also allows solo play and competitive teams. The point-to-point movement mechanic adds tactical depth to the lab environment.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Matt Leacock and Thomas Lehmann, Pandemic: In the Lab extends the Pandemic series with new roles, scenarios, and a unique lab setting. It was nominated in 2013 for the Board Game Quest Awards Best Game Expansion and the Golden Geek Best Board Game Expansion. It complements both the base game and the On the Brink expansion.
Awards
2013
- 2013 Board Game Quest Awards Best Game Expansion — Nominated
Pro
- New lab board with point-to-point movement
- Supports cooperative and competitive modes
- Four new roles add team variety
- Meaningful expansion to the Pandemic series
Contra
- Requires base game and partially other expansions
- Increases complexity with new mechanics
- 60-minute playtime demands attention and patience
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in a high-security laboratory where scientists race against diseases. Themes include medical research, bioscience, and epidemic control in a contemporary world.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Familiarize yourself well with the base Pandemic game before playing In the Lab to understand the new mechanics better.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Pandemic: In the Lab supports solo play for 1 to 6 players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for a game night.
What prior experience do I need?
You should know the base Pandemic game since this is an expansion.
How does this compare to similar games?
This expansion adds a unique lab setting, point-to-point movement, and team competition within the Pandemic series.
Is this suitable for families?
Recommended for players 8 and up with moderate complexity, making it family-friendly for experienced gamers.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of action points, hand management, set collection, and point-to-point movement in a lab environment.
Fazit
Pandemic: In the Lab is a recommended expansion for players who enjoy the base game and seek new tactical challenges in a lab setting. It suits groups wanting both cooperative and competitive play modes.
