Neanderthal

Neanderthal is a fascinating and ambitious game that takes players on a journey back to the Ice Age, offering a unique and immersive experience. The game mechanics are complex, though, and the rulebook is incredibly dense, with footnotes that feel more like personal essays from the designer than clear explanations.

While I appreciate the depth and the attempt to be historically accurate, the learning curve is steep. The game is packed with information about early human societies, including hunting, gathering, vocabulary development, and even climate change. However, it takes a considerable amount of time to decipher the rules and master the strategy. It's not a game for a casual gamer looking for a quick session.

The game's theme is engaging, and it sparked interesting discussions about human evolution and cultural development. However, I found that my younger daughter, who is interested in the Ice Age, struggled to grasp the complexities of the game. For younger players, the historical context might be lost on them.

Overall, Neanderthal is a thought-provoking game that caters to a niche audience. If you're a history buff or enjoy complex strategy games, it's worth exploring. But be prepared to invest a significant amount of time learning the rules.