Oceans

Oceans is a fantastic addition to the Evolution series, offering a unique and captivating underwater experience. It's a stand-alone game, but it does build upon the foundation of the series with its engine building mechanics and focus on species evolution. What sets Oceans apart is its theme. The game beautifully captures the mysteries and wonders of the ocean depths, incorporating a deck of unique "Deep" cards that introduce fantastical creatures and game-changing mechanics.

The gameplay itself is a joy. It's more forgiving than the original Evolution, with a streamlined turn structure that makes it easier to get into. However, the strategic depth remains, and the interconnected nature of the ecosystem forces you to constantly adapt and react to the changing environment. The Surface cards offer a stable foundation, while the Deep cards introduce a level of chaos and unpredictability that keeps you on your toes.

I particularly appreciate the game's focus on player interaction. While it's competitive, there are ample opportunities for cooperation and manipulation, making it a game where you're always thinking about what your opponents are doing and how you can capitalize on their actions. The artwork is stunning, and the components are high quality.

Some reviewers have mentioned a few minor drawbacks, like the occasional need to refer to the rulebook for specific scenarios and some shipping issues. I also noticed a couple of complaints about missing components in the Deluxe Edition, which is a shame. However, it seems like North Star Games is responsive to customer feedback and willing to rectify these issues.

Overall, Oceans is a wonderful game that I highly recommend, especially for fans of engine builders and thematic games. It's engaging, strategic, and visually stunning, with enough replayability to keep you coming back for more.