In the Footsteps of Darwin

In the Footsteps of Darwin is a beautiful game with a fun theme, but its gameplay can be a bit simplistic for experienced gamers. The art and design are top-notch, and the components are high quality. The game is easy to learn and quick to play, making it a great choice for family game nights or as a filler game between heavier titles.

The theme of the game is inspired by Charles Darwin's journey on the Beagle, and players take on the role of junior naturalists collecting specimens and contributing to Darwin's research. The game has a strong educational element, and I particularly enjoyed the detailed appendix with information about the animals featured in the game.

The gameplay itself is fairly straightforward, with players drafting tiles to build their own "notebooks" of animals and theories. There are multiple ways to score points, but the game isn't particularly deep or strategic. While the game can be enjoyed by all ages, I found that it lacked some of the strategic depth that I enjoy in heavier board games. It's a great game for families with young children, but experienced gamers might find it a bit too simple.

Overall, In the Footsteps of Darwin is a solid game with a strong theme and beautiful components. While it's not the most complex or strategic game, it's a fun and engaging experience for players of all ages.