Reviews

  • Review: Nucleum

    When Elsa von Frühlingfeld used recently isolated uranium to heat a pitcher of water and then used the resulting steam to power an engine in a process she called “atomization,” a new era of energy dawned. Her device, called “Nucleum,” made Saxony the center of European science and engineering. Now, a generation later, inventors, engineers, and industrialists flock to the Saxon court to become the leader of this new industrial revolution.

    This is how we are presented with Nucleum, a design by Simone Luciani (Grand Austria Hotel, Tzolk’in: The Mayan Calendar) and Dávid Turczi (Imperium, Tawantinsuyu: The Inca Empire). First published in 2023 in an English version by Board&Dice. The artwork is handled by Andreas Resch (Istanbul, Il Vecchio, Great Western Trail) and Piotr Sokołowski (Loot, Merchants).

  • Review: Terraforming Mars – The Dice Game

    We have finally managed to build colonies on Mars, but now we face an even greater challenge: bringing the planet to life and turning it into a new home for humanity! Will your corporation be the one to lead the way?

    This is how Terraforming Mars: The Dice Game is presented to us, designed by Jacob Fryxelius (besides Terraforming Mars, responsible for After the Virus or Star Scrappers: Orbital). First published in 2023 by FryxGames in an English edition. The illustrations are handled by Isaac Fryxelius (Angel Fury, Brawling Barons).

  • Review: Faraway

    Beyond the Sea of Mists lies Alula, a mysterious continent. Journey across its ever-changing world and uncover the wonders it conceals. Meet its inhabitants, unravel its secrets, and gain more renown than your opponents. Explore the continent, take on quests, and gather the resources needed to fulfill them. Plan your journey carefully because, at the end of the game, you will score your points in reverse order—starting with the very last card you played!

    This is how Faraway is presented—a design by Johannes Goupy (Queenz, Orichalcum) and Corentin Lebrat (Draftosaurus, Arkeis). First published in 2023 by Catch Up Games in a French edition, with artwork by Maxime Morin (Garden Nation, Codex Naturalis).

  • Review: Forest Shuffle

    The forest is full of life: animals run around the glades looking for plants and insects to feed on. Some prefer the dense tree canopies, while others favor the lush undergrowth. However, one thing these forest creatures do have in common is that they only feel safe in the shelter of the trees.

    This is the premise of Forest Shuffle, a design by Kosch (FYFE). First published in 2023 by Lookout Games in English and German versions. The illustrations are handled by Toni Llobet, marking his first foray into the world of modern board games.

  • Review: Pagan – Fate of Roanoke

    To Mayor Biggs. Regarding your letter about the appearance of a witch in the village of Roanoke, I hereby accept the task entrusted to me. If your conviction holds, that is, that the suspects number fewer than a dozen, my recommendation is to subject them all to the trial tests. In a situation like this, a certain amount of collateral damage is to be expected. However, I will honor your wish that the innocent be spared, whenever possible. What a powerful witch, such as the one you portray, is doing in a place like Roanoke is beyond me. However, I assure you that her days are numbered. I trust that all your resources will be at my disposal. Sincerely, Samuel Crowe, Witch Hunter. Anno Domini 1587, August 20th.

    This is the premise of Pagan: Fate of Roanoke, designed by Kasper Kjær Christiansen and Kåre Storgaard. First published in 2022 by Wyrmgold GmbH following a successful crowdfunding campaign in an English version. The artwork is illustrated by Maren Gutt (Drachensachen, Robin of Locksley).

  • Review: My Shelfie

    You have just arrived home with your new bookshelf, and it is time to display your favorite belongings: books, board games, photos… And do not forget to make room for your cats! Who will organize their bookshelf best?

    This is the premise of My Shelfie, designed by Phil Walker-Harding (Sushi Go!, Bärenpark) and Matthew Dunstan (Pioneer Days, Elysium). First published in 2022 by Cranio Creations in an English and Italian edition. The artwork is by Shannon Grosenbacher and Sara Valentino (marking the first time these artists work in the board game industry).