Dominant Species: Marine

Dominant Species: Marine is a worthy successor to the original Dominant Species, taking the core mechanics and refining them into a more streamlined and engaging experience. While the original was a classic, its complexity could be daunting for newer players. This iteration addresses that, simplifying dominance mechanics and introducing dynamic turns that allow for more strategic flexibility.

The game is built around the concept of evolving your chosen aquatic species through adaptation, migration, and combat, competing for dominance in a changing world. I found the new trait cards to be a welcome addition, adding a layer of personalization and replayability as each species develops its unique strengths. The action pawns feel more immediate, with actions taking place as soon as they are placed, providing a faster pace and less of a mental burden.

The game components are top-notch, with visually appealing tiles and cards. The rulebook is clear and concise, making it easy for both new and experienced players to jump in. The changes made in Dominant Species: Marine successfully make the game more accessible while retaining the strategic depth that made the original so compelling.

However, I must caution potential buyers about a potential issue I encountered. I received a box that was clearly used and contained components for other games. Thankfully, I was able to return it, but this experience highlights the need for careful inspection when purchasing pre-owned copies.

Overall, Dominant Species: Marine is a strong addition to the game library. If you enjoyed the original, you'll definitely want to give this one a try. Just make sure you're getting a complete and authentic copy.