The Guild of Merchant Explorers

The Guild of Merchant Explorers is a game that I've been enjoying lately. It's a simple game to learn but offers a lot of replayability with its different maps and objectives. The premise of expanding your trade network by taking control of complete areas on your board is interesting and engaging.

I really like the theme of exploration and the strategic aspect of trying to plan for what the exploration card will be. The game feels very puzzly, especially when playing solo. I appreciate that it doesn't feel like you're waiting around for other players to finish their turns, as everyone can be working on their own map simultaneously.

However, some have pointed out that the game can feel a bit flat, like Candyland with extra layers. I think this is a matter of personal preference. While it's true that there's not a lot of direct player interaction, I still find myself strategizing and trying to outscore my opponents. I think the game's length is perfect, leaving you wanting to play again.

The game's components are functional but not particularly exciting. I wish the maps were more colorful, and I do agree that the box is larger than it needs to be. That said, I think the game's mechanics and replayability make up for these minor flaws. I'm hoping that there will be expansions in the future to add even more depth to the game.