The Royal Society of Archeology
The Royal Society of Archeology at your next game night?
Add The Royal Society of Archeology to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add The Royal Society of Archeology to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
- Designer Eric Jumel
- Publisher Atalia , HUCH! , Capstone Games
- Illustration Guillaume Tavernier
The description, FAQ and assessments for this game were generated with the help of artificial intelligence from the game data and reviewed editorially. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.
What to Expect
You lead a learned society based in London, planning expeditions and sending archaeologists to legendary sites. Players collect relics, gain prestige and expand scientific knowledge while workers gain experience over the game. Placing a less experienced archaeologist on a spot already occupied by a more experienced one can trigger bonuses for both players. Strategic choices balance prestige and scientific achievements.
Who Is This Game For?
Aimed at experienced/enthusiast players who enjoy Worker-Placement, Set Collection and Variable Player Powers. With a playtime of about 120 minutes it requires planning and patience. Solo play is supported but multiplayer rounds emphasize player interaction.
How It Works
Core mechanics are Worker Placement with different worker types and a stat-based turn order system (Turn Order: Stat-Based). Players place researchers on action spaces, collect sets of relics and aim for End Game Bonuses. Variable Player Powers create asymmetric strategies, while Highest-Lowest Scoring influences scoring choices. Worker experience grows during play, changing available actions over time.
What Makes It Special
Designer Eric Jumel pairs worker placement with an experience/stacking mechanism where less-experienced workers can gain rewards when placed alongside more experienced ones. The mix of Set Collection and End Game Bonuses shapes long-term strategy. London serves as the operational hub tying exploration and civilization elements together.
Pro
- Strong archaeological theme with London as a base
- Deep Worker-Placement with different worker types
- Experience mechanic makes workers grow more efficient over time
- Variable Player Powers enable diverse playstyles
Contra
- Long playtime (~120 minutes) requires time and focus
- Multiple interlocking mechanics can be daunting for newcomers
Setting & atmosphere
Set in an archaeology/paleontology theme of the early 20th century with London as headquarters and expeditions to legendary sites, as described in the game text.
Tips for beginners
Focus first on core action spaces and collecting sets; treat worker experience as a long-term investment rather than chasing immediate gains.
Frequently asked questions
Can I play this solo?
Yes. The game supports solo play (players.min = 1).
How long does a game really take?
Recorded duration is about 120 minutes; allow additional time for setup and teaching.
What prior experience do I need?
Familiarity with Worker-Placement and Set Collection helps, as the game combines several interconnected systems.
How does this compare to similar games?
Unlike pure worker-placement titles, this game emphasizes worker experience and stat-based turn order alongside set collection and end-game bonuses.
Is this suitable for families?
Minimum age is 14; due to complexity and length it is better suited to families with experienced teenage players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The standout mechanic is the combination of Worker-Placement with different worker types and an experience/bonus interaction when stacking less experienced workers with more experienced ones.
Fazit
A thematic, strategic game for players who like layered Worker-Placement and asymmetric powers. Recommended if you can commit to ~120 minutes and enjoy multi-mechanic planning.
The Royal Society of Archeology at your next game night?
Add The Royal Society of Archeology to your collection, let your group vote on what to play, and keep track of winners and scores. Free, no credit card.
Add The Royal Society of Archeology to my collectionAlready have an account? Log in
