Underwater Cities

Underwater Cities is a captivating game that pulls you into a world of underwater construction and resource management. The game's central theme is card placement, where you strategically select actions and advantages by placing cards in color-matched slots on the main board. This core mechanic drives a satisfyingly complex system of resource gathering, building, and city development. The game is definitely on the heavier side, offering a meaty experience that requires careful planning and strategic thinking.

I've been particularly drawn to the "engine building" aspect of the game, where you can chain cards together to create powerful synergies for resource production and victory points. While the game shares similarities with Terraforming Mars, the addition of worker placement elements adds a layer of complexity and strategic depth that sets it apart. I also enjoy the individual player boards, allowing each player to build their own unique underwater city, a feature that adds a great sense of personal achievement and provides a unique visual representation of your progress.

However, I'm not a fan of the game's reliance on iconography, which can make it a bit challenging to teach new players. The learning curve is steep, and the game's complexity might overwhelm casual gamers. The production quality is also a bit of a disappointment, especially considering the game's price point. I would have preferred sturdier components and higher-quality card stock.

Despite these shortcomings, Underwater Cities is a truly engaging game that offers a unique and challenging experience for experienced Eurogame enthusiasts. It's a game that rewards strategic thinking and careful planning, and if you're looking for a complex and rewarding game with a deep engine-building system, Underwater Cities is definitely worth checking out.