Salton Sea

Salton Sea is a fascinating game that takes you into the world of geothermal lithium extraction. While the theme might not be for everyone, it's the intricate gameplay and strategic decisions that truly shine.

From the moment you open the box, you're struck by the beautiful, minimalist design. The board is well organized, and the color palette is striking. The components are good quality, though I agree with other reviewers that the cards could be slightly larger. This would make the symbols easier to read, especially for those of us with older eyes!

The game itself is definitely not for beginners. It's a complex Euro game with a steep learning curve. However, the depth and variety of choices make it very rewarding once you grasp the basics. You have to carefully manage your resources, make smart investments, and react to the shifting market conditions. One wrong move can cost you dearly, but there are many strategies to explore.

I particularly enjoy the tension of balancing exploration and development with resource management. The game is full of interesting decisions that keep you engaged throughout the entire 120 minutes. You can play solo, which is a great option when you don't have a group available, or with up to four players.

The only minor drawback is the sheer volume of rules and information. The manual is quite long and detailed, which might intimidate some players. Despite this, I found it well-written and easy to follow.

Overall, Salton Sea is a challenging but rewarding game for experienced board game enthusiasts. If you're looking for a complex Euro game with a unique theme and plenty of strategic depth, this is definitely worth checking out.